Malolactic fermentation, or MLF, a deacidification process in which malic acid is biologically converted to lactic acid and carbon dioxide (Krieger 2005). The process is “biological” because it is carried out by living lactic acid bacteria (LAB): Lactobacillus, Oenococcus, and Pediococcus (Krieger 2005, Iland et al. 2007) that are native to the grapes or through […]
Darn Good Winemakers
Do Your Hybrid Wines Need an Upgrade?
If you’re producing wine outside of the three big western states (California, Oregon, and Washington), then it’s likely you’re making some wines based on hybrid wine grape varieties. Hybrid-based wines are quite unique compared to Vitis vinifera-based wines. They offer a varied aroma and taste profile, different wine chemistry, and some varieties may be less […]
What Causes a Stuck Fermentation?
Sometimes, a stuck fermentation is inevitable despite a winemaker’s best efforts to avoid it. Stuck fermentations are defined as periods of time during primary fermentation when sugar conversion unexpectedly slows down or stops completely (Iland et al. 2007). Maybe the wine takes off aggressively before the winemaker is able to gain control of the fermentation. […]
To Inoculate? That is the Question
On August 16, 2019 (4:00 PM, EST), the Darn Good Winemakers session will meet to discuss strategies surrounding a successful native primary fermentation. In the presentation titled: Successful Native Fermentation Strategies, we’re going to learn more about Potential risks associated with native fermentations. Best strategies for maintaining a healthy native fermentation. Developing a rescue strategy […]
Intro to Winery Lab Essentials
(Just in time for harvest!) In working with a number of wineries throughout the country that range in the 2,000 case to 15,000 case annual production size, I have found that many struggle to get a firm grip on wine analytical testing. Of course, this also includes testing incoming fruit, juice, or must, as well […]
Four Steps to Transition the Cellar in Preparation for Harvest
For those wine regions in the southernmost states, harvest prep may have already started in May, as harvest season may be in full swing early July. However, for many wine regions in the U.S., the months of June and July mark the beginning of harvest preparation in the winery cellar and production space. While it […]
