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. […]
Harvest
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 […]
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 […]
Don’t Forget! “Creatively Perfecting Wines in Challenging Vintage Years” Webinar on March 26th
Early in March, I presented options for how to use wines produced from disease-heavy fruit at the annual Grape Expectations conference in New Jersey. However, given many winemakers could not attend this conference, I’m going to review some of these core concepts in the March Darn Good Winemakers session. If you need help getting something […]
