Tartrate stabilization is a complex process used to avoid the formation of tartrate crystals (“wine diamonds”) in wine. The most common method employed today is cooling the wine to intentionally form crystals that are then filtered out. Even though this method is widely accepted, it can be unpredictable, and extended hold times at low temperature may negatively impact the aromatics and flavor of the wine. ATPGroup, in partnership with TMCI Padovan, offers winemakers two innovative options to traditional cold stabilization.
The KrystalStop, or “K-Stop” is an updated take on the tank-chilling method of cold stabilization. It takes the guesswork out of tank chilling by automating cold stability into a continuous-flow process with integrated stability verification, ensuring your wines are tartrate stable when you need them. The K-Stop features on-board heat exchangers which capture energy and recapture the cream of tartar seeding crystals, thereby maximizing efficiency and reducing overall operating costs. Because the K-Stop is designed to work with wines at normal cellar storage temperatures, it eliminates the increased risks of oxidation, aromatic decrease, and flavor loss which can occur in stabilization-temperature storage. Standard K-Stop units are available with nominal flow rates ranging from 500 gallons/hour to 5000 gallons/hour, with higher capacity units available upon request.
The Ambra ion-exchange plant can remove the chilling requirement altogether. These compact systems stabilize tartrates using cation resins instead of low temperatures. This treatment can be used on wine and juice and has no impact on the colloidal makeup or the color of the wines being treated. In addition, the Ambra is effective in treating wines with high calcium, magnesium or iron salts which can make traditional cold stabilization difficult. The Ambra systems offer reduced stabilization costs and are engineered to maintain optimum flow rates during treatment and column regeneration.
In 2020, ATPGroup is adding K-Stop and Ambra units to our suite of mobile service options. Please contact your ATPGroup Equipment Specialist at (707) 836-6840 for more information or visit 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, 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.