Fermentation Vessel

A fermentation vessel is the container where maceration and fermentation take place. Stainless steel tanks, oak tanks, oak barrels and a variety of plastic bins are common fermentation vessels.

Plastic and stainless steel are practical for several reasons. Both can be easily cleaned and sterilized to prevent contamination from microbial growth. Because of their size, plastic bins are also handy when fermenting smaller amounts of grapes and can be placed in temperature controlled rooms or have plates inserted to control temperature. Stainless steel tanks can have thermostats and insulated jackets attached to control the temperature of the fermentation but are inefficient for small lot winemaking. Oak barrel fermentations are thought to smooth bitter tannins and create a softer more supple wine. However, they are expensive, difficult to clean and are prone to bacterial contamination.