Whole Bunch

/HOHL bunch/

Fermenting grapes with stems intact.

Full Definition

Whole bunch (whole cluster) fermentation includes grape stems in the ferment. Stems contribute tannin structure, spice, and complexity when ripe. Unripe stems add harsh, green character. Burgundy and Rhone producers use varying percentages. Requires careful stem ripeness assessment.

Related Terms

whole cluster stems carbonic maceration

See Also

fermentation extraction

Weight Back to Glossary Whole Cluster

More terms starting with W

Weight

The heaviness or lightness of wine on the palate.

Whole Cluster

Fermenting with grape stems intact.

Wine Faults

Defects that diminish wine quality.

Winemaker

The person responsible for producing wine.

Warm Climate

Wine region with high temperatures during growing season.

Wine Lake

European surplus wine from overproduction subsidies.