Organic red vine leaves for herbal tea — A plant from the European herbal tradition

Red vine (Vitis vinifera) is one of humanity’s oldest cultivated plants, whose leaves—not just its grapes—have been prized in traditional herbal medicine for centuries. Dried red vine leaves, recognizable by their slightly reddish underside in autumn, produce an astringent and subtly fruity infusion. Herberry offers you these dried red vine leaves.

Botanical overview

Vitis vinifera is a woody vine in the Vitaceae family, cultivated throughout Europe since antiquity for the production of grapes and wine. Its large, palmately lobed leaves (3-5 lobes) and characteristic tendrils make it easy to identify. In autumn, the leaves turn spectacular shades of red and burgundy. This is when they are traditionally harvested for herbal use, as their color is linked to the accumulation of anthocyanins and other polyphenols.

The leaves contain flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin), anthocyanins (cyanidin, delphinidin, petunidin—found more abundantly in red autumn leaves), procyanidolic oligomers (OPCs), phenolic acids (tartaric acid, malic acid), and tannins. The OPC content is particularly significant.

Aromatic and flavor profile

Red vine leaf infusion offers a liquor ranging from pale pink to amber, with a beautiful color depending on the leaves' anthocyanin richness. Its taste is slightly astringent and fruity, with subtle vegetal notes reminiscent of fresh vine leaves. The bitterness is moderate. It is a pleasant herbal tea that can be enjoyed plain or lightly sweetened.

How to prepare the infusion

• Quantity: 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried leaves (approx. 1.5 to 2 g) per cup
• Water: simmering, approx. 90-95°C
• Infusion: 10 to 12 minutes, covered
• Strain and enjoy warm
• Frequency: 2 to 3 cups per day

Composition

Precautions for use

• Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical advice
• Not recommended for children under 12 years old
• If you are taking anticoagulant medication, consult your doctor before consumption
• Do not exceed recommended usage amounts
• Dietary supplements are not a substitute for a varied and balanced diet

FAQ

Are Herberry's red vine leaves certified organic?

These red vine leaves are conventional (not certified organic). For more details on their origin and cultivation method, you can contact Herberry directly.

What is the difference between red vine leaves and grape seed extract?

Leaves and grape seeds are two parts of the same plant (Vitis vinifera) but have different compositions. Seeds are particularly rich in OPCs in the form of highly concentrated oligomeric procyanidins; leaves also contain OPCs and anthocyanins, but in different proportions. Both are used in phytotherapy, but their forms (leaves for herbal tea vs. concentrated extracts in capsules) and profiles differ.

Can red vine leaves be used in cooking?

Yes, red vine leaves are iconic in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine (dolmas, rice- and herb-stuffed leaves). Herberry's dried leaves can be rehydrated and used for this purpose, after checking their texture.

How should I store my bag of red vine leaves?

Keep away from direct light, heat, and moisture. Best consumed within 12 months of opening the resealable bag.

Discover other Herberry herbal teas: See the entire Herberry range