For most of my clients, I encourage them to get into a harvest mindset in July. Clients in southern parts of the U.S. often must start thinking about harvest in April and May. But with the advent of COVID-19 causing disruptions to our daily lives and business operations, I would encourage wineries to start planning, […]
Harvest
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 […]
4 Helpful Tips for a Successful First Harvest
Whether you are a hobbyist winemaker or this is your first year as an established commercial winery, there are several key elements that can help make your first harvest go smoothly. Today, we’re going to review a few of those basic elements to avoid walking into harvest with an overwhelming feeling. 1. Draw out an […]
