Vortex...It's an Egg Thing.

From the point when wine grapes roll in from harvest and are dumped into the hopper for processing, Winemakers must become the perfect blend of scientist and artist in order to bring their wine to life with the process of fermenting yeast and must.

The five most common factors effecting the outcome of fermentation are:

1) Nutrition
2) Temperature
3) Yeast Type
4) Yeast Hydration
5) Size & Shape of Fermentation Vessel Used (a critical, but commonly overlooked factor) 

and each factor provides the winemaker with endless layers of possibility for creating the ideal wine.

Egg-shaped vessels work in a way as to use the naturally occurring Co2 and heat evolution to simulate upward movement.

At the top, the fermenting wine hits the cooler outside of the egg and is drawn down the outer sides. Thus creating a vortex of healthy, performing yeast.

Past and present winemakers agree- egg tanks are a great shape for creating complex wines!

We offer a variety of egg tank options, including the 230 gallon Apollo and 528 gallon Orion tanks to help winemakers take advantage of this ancient, yet effective phenomenon.

Egg Tank FAQs 

How do egg tanks work for white wines?

In regards to white wines, the factor that gives the biggest expression of aroma compounds is the choice of yeast and its performance during fermentation. When yeast are preforming in a healthy environment they are responsible for imparting esters, higher alcohols, volatile fatty acids and volatile sulfur compounds. Egg tanks are ideal to aid in this process.

Can you use egg tanks to ferment reds as well?

Absolutely, with great success! As the cap is pushed up in to the smaller opening for the egg the cap remains mostly submerged. Whether carbonic maceration or traditional fermentation occurs winemakers report better fruit retention and color. Usability is easy with the optional lifting tab and strap to forklift the Apollo to the press, just tip and drain completely. Other options include upper and lower tri-clover openings for racking and draining with ease.

More Egg Tank Questions? Call us at 360.980.2716