Communion Wine

Definition - What does Communion Wine mean?

Communion wine, or sacramental wine is made under specific rules that govern its production. It may be red, white, dry or sweet and, sometimes, fortified. However, the alcohol content must remain below 18%. The juice must be "from the fruit of the grape, pure and incorrupt."

For its use in church, it must be first approved by a bishop from the vineyard's diocese and then it can be labeled "sacramental."

WineFrog explains Communion Wine

Communion wine, like some other wines, have requirements which must be followed in order for it to receive its title. It can only be made from grapes and no additives are permitted, including preservatives. This means the wine must be naturally fermented and the wine cannot become vinegar or sour.

Its style will vary depending on where it is made and which church it is made for.

For fortified styles, it is required that the added spirit be distilled from grapes. The alcohol must not be higher than 18% and the fortification must be done during fermentation.