Wine fermentation tanks are a key piece of winemaking equipment. Wine fermentation tanks are tanks made specifically from food-grade stainless steel that are used to facilitate and control the wine fermentation process, in which yeast converts the sugars in grape juice into alcohol. Well-designed wine fermenters can precisely control temperature, are easy to clean, and have safety features that eliminate hazards to winery operators.
There are several major issues to consider before choosing a wine fermentation tank. The most important is the type of wine you are making – white, red, or rosé. This will guide you in choosing an open fermentation tank for red wines, or a closed (sealed) fermentation tank for white and rosé wines.
Stainless steel tanks are the most popular type of container used in the winemaking process. There are two main categories: closed tanks and open tanks. Closed tanks are also called sealed tanks because they are completely enclosed. Open tanks are also called variable capacity tanks because they have a “floating” lid. The lid is fixed to the surface of the liquid and moves as the liquid level changes. It can also be completely removed. This allows you to use a single tank to handle each type of wine and fermentation stage, and even the aging stage.
Open Fermentation Tanks:
Most commercial wineries ferment red wines in open vessels to allow heat to escape and to make the lid more accessible. When you ferment on the skins, they float to the top and cling to the lid. This lid protects the wine from the elements, but it must also be pressed back into the wine from time to time to help extract more flavor and aroma compounds from the skins.
Closed Fermentation Tanks:
Closed top wine fermentation tanks are used for non-oxidative wine fermentation. Ideal for white wines, the top of the tank remains sealed during fermentation and an inert gas such as nitrogen is used to fill the headspace within the tank and displace oxygen. Wines produced in this way have a fresh taste and are ideal for early drinking.
Stainless steel tanks are so popular because they are extremely durable, reliable, and easy to maintain. From an economic perspective, their price per gallon and life expectancy are unmatched. Unlike other options, they can last for decades. In addition, they provide an unprecedented level of control over the fermentation process.
Stainless steel tanks can be manufactured in a variety of ways, and we can adjust the size, shape, valves, and fittings to your preferences, accepting a completely custom design.
