Press Fraction Juice or Press Wine

The liquid obtained from pressing is referred to press fraction juice or press wine. Press fraction contains more grape solids and tannins than free run juices. The first press fractions are typically very high quality – comparable to free run, but may lack the necessary supportive tannin usually obtained with pressing. Medium press wines tend to have more structure and can be added to the free run if it is low in structure. As higher levels of pressure are applied, press fractions can exhibit more aggressive or bitter flavors as skins tear and seeds break. These hard press fractions are typically put into their own barrels and not blended in with the wine.