Concrete Tanks

Winemaking in concrete tanks is a traditional method that has seen a revitalisation in recent years.

Concrete tanks offers a unique blend of traditional methods and modern benefits. The technique allows for controlled micro-oxygenation, thermal stability, and the preservation of the grape's natural characteristics, leading to wines that are both complex and true to their terroir.

The advantages make concrete tanks an appealing choice for many winemakers seeking to produce high-quality wines.

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Micro-Oxygenation

Concrete tanks are porous, allowing a small amount of oxygen to interact with the wine. This micro-oxygenation is similar to what occurs in oak barrels, but without imparting any oak flavors.

This slow oxygen exchange can soften tannins and enhance mouthfeel, making concrete tanks ideal for wines that benefit from subtle development, such as full-bodied reds or rich whites. It helps round out the wine while preserving purity and freshness.

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Neutrality

Like stainless steel, concrete is a neutral material that does not impart any flavors to the wine. This makes concrete tanks suitable for winemakers who want to preserve the varietal characteristics and terroir expression without the influence of oak.

Wines fermented and aged in concrete tanks tend to have a more natural expression of the grape and terroir. They retain their freshness and fruit purity while gaining a bit more texture and complexity compared to stainless steel-fermented wines.

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Temperature Regulation

Concrete has excellent thermal mass, meaning it can regulate temperature effectively. It retains and releases heat slowly, providing a stable environment for fermentation without the need for external temperature control systems.

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Shape and Design

Concrete tanks come in various shapes, including rectangular tanks, egg-shaped tanks, and traditional vats.

Egg-shaped concrete tanks are popular for their unique ability to keep the wine in constant motion through natural convection currents. This gentle movement can enhance lees contact (interaction with dead yeast cells), contributing to a richer texture and greater complexity in the wine.

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Hygiene and Maintenance

Concrete tanks can be more challenging to clean and maintain than stainless steel. They are porous, which means they can absorb liquids and bacteria if not properly sealed.

Modern concrete tanks are often coated with epoxy or lined with a special sealant to prevent absorption and make them easier to sanitize.

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Cost

Concrete tanks are a significant upfront investment. They are heavy, difficult to move, and require special installation, making them more expensive than stainless steel tanks. However, they are durable and long-lasting, so the cost can be amortized over many years of use.

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Aesthetic and Brand Perception

Concrete tanks can be a selling point for wineries, as they convey an artisanal and traditional approach to winemaking. The use of concrete can be part of a winery's branding, suggesting a focus on natural processes and high-quality production.

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Concrete Tank Fermentation

Concrete tanks are used for fermentation, where the grape juice is converted into wine.

The porous nature of concrete allows for a small amount of oxygen to interact with the wine, which helps to develop complex flavors and to soften the tannins without the need for additional oak aging.

Concrete has excellent thermal properties, maintaining a stable temperature during fermentation. This stability is beneficial for controlling the fermentation process and ensuring consistent quality.

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Concrete Tank Maturation

Concrete tanks can also be used for aging wine. The gradual oxygen exchange through the concrete helps to mature the wine gracefully, often resulting in a more balanced and integrated final product.

Unlike oak barrels, concrete tanks do not impart any additional flavors to the wine, allowing the true character of the grape and terroir to shine through.

The slight permeability of concrete allows for micro-oxygenation, which helps in the maturation of the wine, promoting the development of desirable aromas and flavors.