The Art Of Elevage Casks And The Taste Of Wine

From Goatskin To Plastic Maturation: The Pragmatic Art Sulphur dioxide The Purpose Of Elevage Minimal Intervention Work In The Cellar Fining Racking Filtering Centrifuging Pasteurization Adjusting Acidity Topping Up White Wine Techniques

The processes carried out in the cellar aim to stabilize and clarify the new wine. All affect wine character and some, if over-used, can strip a wine of flavour and character. They are all optional — except perhaps topping up and racking — and are avoided by traditionalist winemakers, who also eschew pumping.

Unfiltered wines can lead to unease among buyers who are used to bright, clear bottles. With careful handling and storage, and decanting if required, such wines can be perfect; but they are at greater risk from spoilage than manipulated wines.