Cold Soak

/KOHLD SOHK/
🍷Winemaking

Pre-fermentation maceration at low temperature.

Full Definition

Cold soak (or cold maceration) is a technique where crushed red grapes are held at low temperatures (5-10C) for several days before fermentation begins. This extracts color and fruit character without tannin (alcohol is needed for tannin extraction). It can enhance fruitiness and color in varieties like Pinot Noir.

Related Terms

macerationextractionprefermentation

See Also

pinot noircarbonic maceration
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