Rotofermenter

Term (also known as rotofermenter, rototank) for a transverse drum-shaped fermentation tank, which is mainly used in red wine production. Either the tank itself or a rod with paddles attached to it is set in rotation. This mixes up the mash during fermentation, achieves a high extraction of phenols (colouring agents, pigments and tannins) and also accelerates fermentation. The carbon dioxide is released through a valve. This is an alternative to the technique of over-pumping (submerging). As fermentation takes place in a closed system as opposed to open fermentation tanks, there is no contact with oxygen. This cost-intensive system is mainly used in larger production plants, for example in Burgundy in France and in the New World.

Further information

For the production of alcoholic beverages, see Champagne (sparkling wines), Distillation (distillates), Spirits (types), Winemaking (wines and wine types) and Wine law (wine law issues).

Picture: Siprem International

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Rotofermenter

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