Approaches to winemaking Flashcards
Define Conventional Winemaking.
Builds on scientific understanding of fermentation processes.
Based on Louis Pasteur’s work in 1860s identifying bacteria and yeasts.
Three techniques utilised by conventional winemaking.
- Temperature Control (cold soaking / fermentation / maturation)
- Use of additives and/or processing aids (- Addition of sugar (chaptalisation and sweetening) / Addition of SO2 to protect the wine / Use of cultured yeasts / Fining agents
- Manipulations ( Filtration / Reverse osmosis / Flash detente / Use of enzymes)
What is the main aim of conventional winemaking?
To produce stable wines which reliably show fruit character and have no faults.
Define Organic Winemaking
Organic winemaking refers to wines made with organically grown grapes and complies with rules that restrict certain practices from being performed during winemaking.
Is SO2 allowed in organic winemaking?
Yes, but the limits vary across countries.
In USA, no SO2 is allowed to be added.
The EU allows regulated additions of SO2.
Define biodynamic winemaking.
Wines made from Biodynamically certified grapes. Certain winemaking practices are required or encouraged by the certifying body, Demeter. Local Demeter certifiers determine locally specific requirements.
What is not allowed in biodynamic wines?
- increasing alcohol levels by concentrating the must
- addition of tannins and certain fining agents (e.g. isinglass)
Define natural winemaking.
It’s a generally undefined approach to winemaking where nothing is added and nothing removed. But it is accepted that it refers to a wine that is made with the fewest possible manipulations.
What kinds of yeasts are used for the fermentations?
Ambient yeasts are typically used for the fermentations.
Is SO2 used for natural wines?
Natural wines are made with a minimum amount of SO2 added if any, and usually only at bottling.
