How Is Red Wine Made?
From Grapes to Bottle
Every bottle of wine begins in the vineyard. The quality of the grapes is one of the most important factors determining the quality of the wine.
The production of red wine combines natural processes with the winemaker’s expertise in order to preserve the best characteristics of the grape variety and its terroir.
Grape Harvest
It all begins with the harvest.
The grapes are harvested when they reach the optimal balance of:
- sugar,
- acidity,
- aromas,
- phenolic ripeness.
The right time to harvest is one of the most important steps in wine production.
Crushing and Destemming
After the grapes arrive at the winery, they are usually crushed and the stems are removed.
This releases the juice and prepares the grapes for fermentation.
Fermentation
Fermentation is the process during which yeasts convert the sugar in the grapes into alcohol.
In red wine production, fermentation takes place together with the grape skins.
During this process, the wine gains:
- colour,
- tannins,
- aromatic compounds,
- structure.
Ageing the Wine
After fermentation, the wine is racked and left to age.
Ageing can last for several months or even several years, depending on the desired style of wine.
Some wines age in stainless steel tanks, while others spend part of their ageing period in wooden barrels.
Bottling
When the wine reaches the desired balance, it is bottled.
Some wines are ready for the market immediately after bottling, while others continue to age in the bottle before being released.
Art and Science
Wine production combines tradition, experience and modern knowledge.
Each harvest brings new challenges, but that is precisely what makes wine one of the most fascinating agricultural products in the world.