Class 1 - Intermediate Wine Oenology Flashcards
What is the first step in the red wine process?
Harvest
The process includes multiple steps: Harvest, Crush, Ferment, Press, Barrel Age, Rack/Fine, Bottle, Bottle Age.
What is the typical yield of grapes to a barrel of wine?
600-700 pounds of grapes
This quantity typically yields a barrel of wine.
How many cases does a barrel of wine yield?
23 cases
Each case contains 12 bottles.
What Brix level should grapes be picked at for good reviews?
Approximately 24 Brix
Aiming for 25 Brix is preferred.
What does the Brix unit measure?
10 grams of sugar per liter
It is about the same as percent sugar.
What factors influence the quantity and quality of grapes produced?
- Level of soil fertility
- Weather-related advances and delays
- Ratio of exposed leaf area to fruit
These factors are critical for vineyard management.
What is the purpose of adding sugar during winemaking?
To increase final alcohol concentration
This is often necessary if grapes come in at low Brix levels.
What is Chaptalization?
Adding sugar to grape must before fermentation
This is done if initial sugar levels are low.
What is the role of sulfites in winemaking?
Sanitizes surfaces that contact grapes or juice
Sulfites are essential for cleanliness but restrict the wine from being labeled organic in the US.
What percentage of asthmatics have a severe sensitivity to sulfites?
5-10%
This sensitivity can trigger asthma attacks.
When does fermentation start in winemaking?
The moment the grapes are crushed
Wild yeasts colonize the grapes during growth.
Who invented the microscope, allowing for the discovery of yeast?
Antonie van Leeuwenhoek
This innovation occurred between 1632-1723.
What are the end products of fermentation according to Lavoisier?
Ethanol and CO2
This was established in 1789.
What is Assmannshausen known for?
A German yeast strain best suited for red wines
It intensifies color and adds a spicy aroma.
What is the fermentation characteristic of Epernay yeast?
Slow fermentation, tolerant to cold temperatures
Used in champagne production.
What is the primary use of Montrachet yeast?
Producing Chardonnay in barrel and stainless steel
It is popular for both red and white wine fermentations.
What is Chardonnay’s tolerance level for sulfur dioxide?
Chardonnay tolerates sulfur dioxide well.
This characteristic makes it suitable for various winemaking processes.
What is the maximum sugar level Chardonnay can effectively work with?
More than 23.5 percent.
High sugar levels can lead to stuck fermentations.
What is the second most common yeast strain used in winemaking?
Champagne yeast. Note that Saccharomyces cerevisiae (S. cerevisiae) is the most common yeast associated w/wine making
This yeast is preferred for its fermentation speed and effectiveness in low temperatures.
Where was Champagne yeast isolated?
Champagne, France.
It is a mixed-population culture used in sparkling wine production.
What types of wines is Pasteur Red yeast typically used for?
Red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Zinfandel.
This strain is tolerant to heat and sulfur dioxide.
What is a characteristic of Pasteur White yeast?
It ferments slowly and tolerates cold temperatures.
It also imparts a noticeable yeasty aroma.
What is Premier Curvee yeast also known as?
Prise de Mousse.
This yeast is strong acting and low foaming, qualified for barrel fermentations.
What strain is used for white wine fermentation and tolerates cold better than Pasteur White yeast?
Steinberg.
It yields a lengthy fermentation process and is best used in stainless steel.