A viticulture-related question was recently posed to me during a Darn Good Winemakers session, and I thought the question was so thought provoking that it required pause and attention as a blog post. It gave me a good opportunity to think about science, how commercial operations use scientific findings, and how easily viticulture and enology […]
To Inoculate? That is the Question
On August 16, 2019 (4:00 PM, EST), the Darn Good Winemakers session will meet to discuss strategies surrounding a successful native primary fermentation. In the presentation titled: Successful Native Fermentation Strategies, we’re going to learn more about Potential risks associated with native fermentations. Best strategies for maintaining a healthy native fermentation. Developing a rescue strategy […]
Intro to Winery Lab Essentials
(Just in time for harvest!) In working with a number of wineries throughout the country that range in the 2,000 case to 15,000 case annual production size, I have found that many struggle to get a firm grip on wine analytical testing. Of course, this also includes testing incoming fruit, juice, or must, as well […]
4 Helpful Tips for a Successful First Harvest
Whether you are a hobbyist winemaker or this is your first year as an established commercial winery, there are several key elements that can help make your first harvest go smoothly. Today, we’re going to review a few of those basic elements to avoid walking into harvest with an overwhelming feeling. 1. Draw out an […]
FDA Compliance for Wineries: The Whole Picture
Today is the last day that you can enroll in our “Getting Your Winery Ready for an FDA Inspection” email course, which launches next week (June 17 – 21, 2019). It’s free! You’re enrollment guarantees you: A downloadable copy of the Is Your Winery FSMA Ready? checklist, which you can reference at any time. Registration […]
Are Wineries Getting Inspected by the FDA?
Some may assume that their winery operation may be too small to get inspected by the FDA, in relation to the 2011 Food Safety and Modernization Act (FSMA) regulation. Is this really the case? The FDA now publicizes many of the food and beverage establishments that have been inspected to date, as well as the […]