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"Carbonic Maceration" Wines
The air is turning crisp... and leaves are starting to change. We can't think of a better way to settle into autumn than with a glass of wine!
While the bold, heavier reds often take center stage during the cooler months, red wines using carbonic maceration are a vibrant and refreshing option for this transition-ey weather.
👇 We're breaking down these oh-so-delicious wines in today's post!
What is 'carbonic maceration'?
Carbonic maceration is a winemaking process where whole (uncrushed) grapes are placed in a sealed container, typically in stainless steel tanks. Fermentation begins inside the grape berries themselves, using naturally occurring yeasts.
How is this different from traditional winemaking?
- It's fast! Carbonic maceration can ferment wine as quickly as a few days, and is generally done in less than 2 weeks. Traditional fermentation can take weeks or even months.
- The grapes ferment themselves! As yeasts convert sugars into alcohol, they release CO2 which collects inside the sealed tank. As this 'air pocket' of CO2 expands, it applies pressure to the grapes, popping (or naturally crushing) them. The free-run grape juice interacts with the yeasts and continues to ferment into wine.
- Best enjoyed fresh! Often called "Nouveau wines" - these wines are harvested, fermented and bottled in the same year. They are meant to be drunk young and not aged.
- Distinct flavors! Known for creating "red candy" flavors, these wines have bright and juicy fruit flavors (think raspberries, strawberries, or cherries).
Fossil & Fawn | Do Nothing: Featuring all the Pinots (Gris, Blanc, and Noir), this snazzy, zippy, Hawaiian-punchy, mineral-laden crispness is perfect with just about everything or perhaps preferably, nothing at all.
Where is this process used?
The process and style of wine was made famous by winemakers in Beaujolais, a region in Burgundy, France. "Beaujolais Nouveau" wines are the poster-child for these fresh, easy-drinking reds.
Fun Fact! Each year, Beaujolais Nouveaus are released around the world on the third Thursday of November. It's illegal to sell this year's Beaujolais Nouveaus before that date! Stay tuned for November 21, 2024!
Why are they "perfect for Fall"?
- Drink Chilled: It's not always cozy-sweater-weather in LA at this time of year. The slight chill on these red wines make them perfect for those in-between days that are warm in the afternoon, but cooler in the evenings
- Low Tannins = Easy Drinking: This makes them incredibly easy to sip and enjoy, even for those who may shy away from more intense reds.
- Fall flavors: Their bright acidity and juicy fruit flavors cut through rich, heartier foods without overpowering them. like creamy soups, roasted poultry, stuffing... are you getting Thanksgiving vibes yet?
- Fun and Festive: There's an inherent playfulness to wines made via carbonic maceration. Whether it’s the slight fizz some of them have, or the bold, bright flavors that leap out of the glass, these wines are begging for a fall gathering or harvest festival!
