Where do wine proteins come from? Most proteins found in wine come from grapes even if microorganisms, enzymes and protein fining agents also account for a substantial fraction. Their content in grapes vary with vintage, grape variety, soil, climate and vineyard practices.
How can we protein stabilize a wine? Unstable proteins are commonly removed by using bentonite. Protein stability can be improved from the earliest stages of winemaking using tannins (Enartis Tan Clar), enzymes with side proteasic activity (Enartis Zym Arom MP) and mannoproteins, thus reducing bentonite treatments and consequently preserving wine aromatic quality.
Are all bentonites the same? Many types of bentonite are available for winemakers including sodium bentonite, calcium bentonite and activated bentonite.
Based on composition, bentonites can have different properties and act differently regarding their ability to remove proteins, compact lees and impact aroma.
What type of bentonite should I use? There are three types of bentonite commercially available. It is important to test and treat wines with the same bentonite.
- Sodium bentonite: most reactive with proteins
- Calcium bentonite: used to compact lees
- Calcium bentonite sodium activated - good reactivity with proteins and good lees compaction.
Should I rehydrate my bentonite in water or wine? Water. Bentonite should be rehydrated with clean, chlorine-free water.
Can I use bentonite in red wines? Yes. Low dosages of bentonite help eliminate unstable color and proteins as well as clarify wines.
How do I determine the appropriate dosage of bentonite to achieve stability? Bentonite Fining Trials offered by Vinquiry Laboratories by Enartis USA determine the amount of bentonite needed to stabilize a wine. It is important to test with the bentonite you will be using in the winery.
Can blending two protein-stable wines compromise final stability? Even small changes in alcohol content, pH and colloid composition can lead to protein instability. The final blend should be tested and additional fining may be needed.
Title | Name | Phone | Extension | |
---|---|---|---|---|
President | José Santos | jose.santos@enartis.com | (707) 303-6559 | |
Sales Manager | Libby Spencer | libby.spencer@enartis.com | (503) 798-0941 |
Locations | Address | State | Country | Zip Code |
---|---|---|---|---|
Enartis USA | 7795 Bell Road, Windsor | CA | United States of America | 95492 |