Sherry styles

Sherry styles

All Sherries begin as the same base wine: a dry, neutral white wine from palomino grape variety fermented to around 11–12% abv. After fermentation, it’s fortified with grape spirit: to about...
Can wine freeze?

Can wine freeze?

It’s a common question, in cold climates, when storing bottles outdoors in winter or in a freezer to cool them down quickly: can wine freeze? The short answer is yes....
Why are wine bottles 750 ml?

Why are wine bottles 750 ml?

Wine bottles almost always come in the same size: 750 ml. But why this very specific measure? The answer combines history, practicality, and tradition.   From hand-blown glass In the...
Why are some estates using horses in their vineyards?

Why are some estates using horses in their vineyards?

Horse traction is primarily used for cultivation, a surface-level soil management method that improves aeration, water infiltration and weed control. But they can also be used for different purpose e.g....
How temperature affects alcoholic fermentation in wine?

How temperature affects alcoholic fermentation in wine?

Controlling the temperature of alcoholic fermentation is one of the most important decisions a winemaker makes. The fermentation temperature directly influences yeast activity, aroma development, tannin extraction, and ultimately, the...
How long does it take to make a barrel?

How long does it take to make a barrel?

Next time you take a sip of wine aged in oak, take a moment to appreciate the incredible journey behind that barrel. Here it is:   1. Growing the oak...
Terracing vineyards: benefits and challenges

Terracing vineyards: benefits and challenges

Terracing isn’t just about aesthetics; it plays an important role in viticulture, enabling vine growth in challenging terrains. Some of the world’s most renowned wine regions rely on terraced vineyards...
Mating disruption

Mating disruption

Mating disruption: a sustainable approach to combat grapevine moths Grapevine moths are a persistent challenge for winegrowers worldwide. Fortunately, there is a sustainable solution: mating disruption, also known as sexual...
What happens during dormancy?

What happens during dormancy?

Dormancy is a crucial time for the plant to recover and prepare for the next growing season!   Period in the Northern Hemisphere: from November to March Period in the...
What Christmas gift for which wine lover?

What Christmas gift for which wine lover?

Looking for the perfect gift for the wine lover in your life? Whether they’re just starting out or already an expert, here are 8 types of wine lovers and the best...
The most expensive barrel of the world

The most expensive barrel of the world

At Château Lafaurie-Peyraguey in Sauternes, there is a unique crystal wine barrel crafted by the crystal house Lalique. It was made by a team of skilled artisans, including some Meilleurs Ouvriers de...
What is hyperoxidation?

What is hyperoxidation?

Hyperoxidation is a counterintuitive technique used in white winemaking. Instead of minimising oxygen exposure, winemakers purposefully introduce oxygen to grape juice (must) before fermentation. Why? This pre-fermentation oxidation removes phenolic...