Wineries up and down the west coast are struggling with the effects of the recent wildfires. Smoke taint is a challenging problem, and experts agree that the earlier intervention occurs the better the results will be. In addition to more traditional techniques, treating red grapes with Flash Détente may significantly reduce the presence of smoke-related compounds. While data is still limited, early trials have shown that reduction of smoke volatile phenols by Flash Détente can reach 50% or greater depending on the grapes and the specific protocols used. Pyrazines have also been shown to have synergistic effect with smoke-taint compounds, so the reduction of pyrazine concentration provided by Flash Détente combined with the characteristically intense fruit character of Flashed wines may also provide a powerful tool to mitigate smoke taint.
ATPGroup is proud to present to the winemaking industry in North America the award-winning, patented Red Hunter Thermovinification/Flash Détente system by TMCI Padovan. Building on the established benefits of Flash Détente technology in color extraction and pyrazine removal, the Red Hunter is the first system to offer winemakers added flexibility in holding times and temperature as well as the option to run as traditional thermovinification or utilize the integrated vacuum chiller. Its unique patent-pending process allows a number of benefits, including more complete extraction of mouthfeel-building tannins, greater inherent color stability, and full rated system throughput regardless of the custom parameters set by the client. The system also features a first-of-its-kind heat recovery system, which lowers energy consumption by up to 30% depending on the unit configuration.
Trial results of hold times from 5 minutes to 45 minutes showed trends which highlight the benefits of the Red Hunter’s flexibility. Efficient removal of pyrazines was achieved regardless of hold time (5 minutes or more), holding temperature, and heat recovery mode. Increasing hold times dramatically improved color stability with only small increases in total tannin and no impact on overall throughput rate. In addition, compared to competitive systems the spiralized heat exchanger incorporated into the Red Hunter produces must with lower solids and caused less physical destruction of the grapes. This results in a more “pressable” treated must which is easier to ferment separately or “double stack” into a traditional maceration. The added flexibility, superior output quality, lower initial capital and reduced operating costs of the Red Hunter, along with its fully automated, 24/7 working cycles and CIP programs make it the system of choice for winemakers looking to add or expand the use Thermovinification/Flash Détente in their wineries. ATPGroup also offers it as part of its Mobile Servicesfor wineries not ready to invest in their own unit.
With Flash Détente, appropriate tannin and enzyme protocols are essential for maximum process efficiency and color stabilization. ATPGroup’s Zyme-O-Thermo L liquid enzyme offers rapid dispersion, enhancing extraction and increasing the ease of must handling. For color stability, the specialized liquid tannin Color-Tan Thermo is particularly formulated with condensed tannins which preferentially bind with anthocyanins, offering the highest level of color stabilization.
ATPGroup’s team of experienced winemakers, enologists, and mobile service technicians is always available to help design a custom program to fit your winemaking style and budget. For more, please contact your ATPGroup Technical Representative or Enology Products Specialist, or call one of our offices: Windsor, CA at (707) 836-6840 or Paso Robles, CA at (805) 237-1223. Information on our products and services is also available on our website: www.ATPGroup.com.
ATPGroup was founded as a family business in 1991. Now a leading supplier to the wine, beer, food, and pharmaceutical markets, the company offers an unparalleled range of high-quality products and services including winemaking & cellar products, brewery supplies, glassware, production equipment, cleaning & sanitation solutions, parts & servicing, mobile services, tartaric acid, cream of tartar, and Rochelle salt. Its team is made up of industry veterans, engineers, cellar masters, and product specialists who provide technical expertise in their respective fields. With warehouses across the country, the company is strategically located to serve customers throughout the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.