Wine, beer, cider and spirits

Winemaking basics: Can you trust your pH meter?

For winemakers, a pH meter is an indispensable tool. Accurate measurements of acidity are essential to winemaking and help prevent spoilage. But how do you know if a pH meter is accurate? Testing and regular maintenance.

James Osborne | Mar 2021 | Article Peer reviewed (Gray level)

Preparing for harvest: Grape chemistry and pre-fermentation adjustments

This article provides guidance on grape maturity testing and how to determine pre-fermentation adjustments.

James Osborne | Aug 2023 | Article Peer reviewed (Gray level)

Dealing with damaged fruit in the winery

For wineries, grapes that have been damaged, usually by ill-timed rainstorms, pose challenges. Fruit fly larvae are often the most visible result but the bigger danger are microorganisms that can ruin the fruit.

James Osborne | May 2024 | Article Peer reviewed (Gray level)

Yeast nutrients and 'stuck fermentations'

Fermentation doesn't always go as planned. Sometimes, a warm growing season can stall the process of turning grapes into wine. Here's what winemakers need to know to guard against "stuck fermentation," and a guide to the steps you can take to restart a slow or sluggish fermentation.

James Osborne | Sep 2018 | Article

Grape variety identification

Identifying the grape cultivar or variety can be complicated. Learn the resources and services that may be used to identify grape varieties for commercial or home/hobby vineyards and landscapes.

Patricia A. Skinkis | Jul 2024 | Article Peer reviewed (Gray level)