Crush
Crush
Crush refers to the period in late summer or fall when harvested grapes are mechanically broken to rupture their skins and release the juice, initiating the winemaking process. It is often used to describe the entire harvest season when grapes are gathered, sorted and processed. For red wines, the crushed skins and juice sit together (maceration) to provide color and tannins, while grapes meant for white wines are pressed immediately to separate the juice from the skins.
See Also
Sediment
The term "sediment" signifies the natural, organic by products of the winemaking and aging process. It is made up of grape solids (skins, seeds, pulp), dead yeast cells (lees) and tartarate crystals (wine diamonds).
Sulfites
Sulfites (sulfur dioxide or SO₂) are chemical compounds naturally produced by yeast during wine fermentation. They act as preservatives, also commonly added by winemakers to prevent bacterial growth, spoilage and oxidation.
Oak
Oak imparts flavor, aroma and texture into wines through fermentation in oak barrels. These barrels act as gentle, breathable vessels that add complex notes and improve the wine's overall structure and mouthfeel.
Hybrid
Hybrid varieties are created by crossing two or more different grapevine species to get a final product that offers resistance to cold, diseases and humidity, making them ideal for tough climates.
Yield
The yield signifies the amount of grapes or wine produced from a specific vineyard area, commonly measured in tons per acre in the US, or hectoliters per hectare in Europe. Lower yields are associated with better quality, while higher yields produce lighter and less concentrated wines.
Assemblage
Assemblage is the French term for the process where winemakers combine different base wines that vary by grape variety, vintage or vineyard parcel, to create a balanced and complex final wine.
Fermentation
Fermentation is a natural biochemichal process where yeast consumes the natural sugars in grape juice and converts them into alcohol, carbon dioxide and heat. At the end of fermentation, grape juice is converted into wine.
Oxidation
Oxidation is a chemical reaction that occurs when oxygen in the air comes in contact with the alcohol in wine, converting ethanol into acetaldehyde, then acetic acid. It causes wines to lose their vibrant colors and reduces fresh fruit aromas.