Cold Soak (Pre-Fermentation Maceration)

Fermentation

Cold soak maceration: pre-fermentation extraction for color and soft fruit flavors.

Cold Soak (Pre-Fermentation Maceration) winemaking method — watercolor illustration

About This Method

Crushed grapes are held at low temperature (5-10°C) for 2-5 days before fermentation begins. This extracts color, fruit flavors, and some tannins without the harsher extraction that occurs during fermentation. Common in premium Pinot Noir production for deeper color and softer tannins.

Details

Category
Fermentation

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