II.4.3.1 Discontinuous secondary fermentation in a closed tank

Definition :

Secondary fermentation procedure in hermetically closed tanks.

Objective :

To produce sparkling wines in tanks in a discontinuous manner.

Prescriptions :

This process comprises the following operations :

a)        Preparation of the base wine or cuvee,

b)       Preparation of the tirage liqueur,

c)        Inoculation with yeasts,

d)       Addition of clarifying agents,

e)       Tirage in a closed tank,

f)         Storage in a closed tank,

g)        Clarification of the sparkling wine,

h)       Cooling,

i)         Addition of the dosage,

j)         Isobaric bottling.

Remark :

Only operations (e), (f), (h), (j) and (i) are different from the operations of secondary fermentation in bottles.

Recommendation of OIV:

Refer to the practices and treatments mentioned in the present International Code of Oenological Practices.