Organic wine making is a process that involves growing grapes without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers, and processing them with minimal use of additives or sulfites. The goal of organic wine making is to produce a high-quality wine that is not only delicious but also environmentally sustainable. In this blog, we'll explore the organic wine making process from vineyard to bottle and learn how to make wine step by step.
1. Vineyard Management
The first step in wine making process is to grow the grapes using organic farming methods. This involves managing the vineyard in a way that promotes soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem stability. Organic vineyard management practices include using cover crops to control weeds, composting to fertilize the soil, and introducing natural predators to control pests.
2. Harvesting
Once the grapes are ripe, they are harvested by hand or machine. In organic wine making, grapes are typically picked at night or early in the morning when they are cooler, which helps to preserve their natural flavors and aromas.
3. Sorting and Crushing
After harvesting, the grapes are sorted to remove any damaged or unripe fruit. The grapes are then crushed to release their juice, which is called "must." In organic wine making, the crushing process is typically done using traditional methods, such as foot treading or hand pressing, to avoid damaging the grapes.
4. Fermentation
Once the must is prepared, it is left to ferment in stainless steel tanks or oak barrels. In organic wine making, natural yeasts are used to initiate fermentation, rather than commercial yeasts, which can contain additives. The fermentation process can take several weeks, and during this time, the sugar in the grapes is converted into alcohol.
5. Aging
After fermentation, the wine is aged in oak barrels or stainless steel tanks. Aging can take several months to several years, depending on the type of wine being produced. During this time, the wine develops its flavor and aroma.
6. Bottling
Once the wine has been aged to perfection, it is bottled and labeled. In organic wine making, minimal sulfites are added to preserve the wine, rather than using the higher levels commonly found in conventionally produced wines. The bottles are then corked or sealed with a screw cap.
In conclusion, organic wine making is a process that involves growing grapes using sustainable farming practices and processing them with minimal use of additives or sulfites. The result is a delicious, environmentally friendly wine that is increasingly popular among consumers who value health, sustainability, and taste. By understanding the organic wine making process whether it is red wine or white wine, consumers can make informed purchasing decisions and support sustainable agricultural practices.