Élevage
Intermediate Winemaking & Viticultureeh-luh-VAHZH
Definition
The maturation and care of wine between fermentation and bottling.
In Depth
Literally 'raising' in French, like raising a child. Élevage encompasses all post-fermentation activities: barrel aging, racking, fining, blending, and sulfur management. A skilled cellar master's élevage can elevate good wine to great. The term emphasizes that winemaking doesn't end at fermentation — the nurturing period is equally critical.
Details
- Category
- Winemaking & Viticulture
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Pronunciation
- eh-luh-VAHZH