Chapter 12 Approaches to winemaking Flashcards
Define biodynamic winemaking
Must be made from certified biodynamic grown grapes. In the winery certain processes are required or encouraged. Rules can change as the main certifying body (DEMETER) has different rules in each country.
How does biodynamic winemaking affect the price of the wine?
Certification adds a small cost to biodynamic wines. They can be mid priced and above because of additioanl cost and small scale production.
Define conventional winemaking
Scientific approach to winemaking based on the discoveries of Louis Pasteur on bacteria and yeast. (1860)
It includes
* temperature control
* Use of additives and/or processing aids fo many types
* Manipulations
Define temperature control in conventional (modern) winemaking and how does it affects the style of the wine.
The ability to control temperature during cold soaking, fermentation (e.g. fruity style) and maturation.
How does the use additives and/or processing aids affect the wine in conventional winemaking?
- Adding sugar to increase potential alcohol or sweeten the wine
- Adding SO2 to protect the wine
- The use of cultured yeast and finning agents
What options of manipultions can be used in conventional winemaking?
From simple pressing and filtration to high technology such as reverse osmosis.
Define natural winemaking
Natural winemaking reject many modern interventions and favour artisan practices. aka nothnig added nothing removed aka fewest possible manipulations.
How does natural winemaking affect the decision during winemaking?
- Fermentation by anbient yeasts
- absolute minimum of added SO2 or no added SO2
- Use of organic or biodynamic grapes
How does natural winemaking affect the price of the wine?
Negligible impact on price.
Saving on investments in equipments offsets the cost of small bath production and posible certificacion.
Wines are small batched and premium priced.
Define organic winemaking
Winemaking with certified organically-grown grapes and following with rules that restrict certain winemaking practices.
Can some additives and processes from conventional winemaking be used in organic winemaking?
Yes.
Cultured yeast, yest nutrients and adding tannins.
Can SO2 be used in organic winemaking?
It varies accros countries.
- EU allows for a regulated amount
- USA does not allow any additon and naturally acurring SO2 is limited
- In USA there is a category of “wine made from organic grapes” that allows the use of SO2
How does organic winemaking affect the price of the wine?
Certification adds a small cost to the price of the wine. Wines are sold at every price point and the sales depend on the market.