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Weather, grape variety, and timing all play major roles in a wine’s characteristics. From harvesting to bottling, the entire process is worth the effort when you can savor the smooth taste of a white or red wine. Here is a step-by-step guide on how wine is produced.

The Winemaking Process

Harvesting Grapes

Grape vineyards take their cues from nature. When to harvest typically depends on the desired sweetness or acidity; early picking produces acidic, aromatic wines, and late picking creates sweeter, more alcoholic wines. When the time is right, the fruit is either hand-picked or machine-harvested. Over-ripe or bruised grapes are separated.

Removing Stems & Pressing

During this phase, all stems are removed before the grapes are pressed to release their juices. The liquid is known as “must” and contains the seeds and outer skins. This process is slightly different for red wines, of which the skins are left intact for bolder flavor and richer color. With white wine, the seeds and skins are separated from the grape juice.

Fermentingred wine

Yeast is added to the must to start the fermentation process. This delicate phase converts the sugar in the must to alcohol. White and red wines have different fermentation time frames, but, in general, the process can last from two weeks to more than a month.

Removing Remaining Substances

This is known as the clarification phase. Any remaining proteins, dead yeast, and other substances are removed. The wine is poured into stainless steel containers or oak barrels to start the second clarification phase, called fining and filtration. During each production cycle, any residue drops to the bottom of the container, where it is filtered out.

Bottling

The final phase transfers the finished wine into sterilized bottles. If the wine will undergo an aging process, it is transferred to new barrels or tanks. The preferred quality levels — sweetness, acidity, tannin, alcohol, and body — typically determine how long the wine will remain in the containers. Flavors can also vary based on the type of barrel or tank.

 

Mainstreet Coffee & Wine Bar in Lakeville, MN, is the premier destination for an amazing array of wine choices. The shop attracts visitors from all over Farmington, Apple Valley, Burnsville, and Prior Lake who seek white and red wines with local and global flavors. Stop by today to experience unique tastes, including aromatic coffees and appetizing dishes made with the freshest ingredients. Check out the full menu online and call (952) 985-7650 for information on catering special events.

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