Unit 9 - Brandy

Question 1

What weight does the stems make up of the grape cluster weight?

Answer 1

2-5%, so for every tonne of grapes, up to 20-50kg stems may be left over.

Question 2

What is the first and most obvious use of the stems?

Answer 2

To compost. We can run the stems through a steam chipper, which reduces their volume considerably and makes them easier to work with. Along with other bits of winery such as seeds and skins, we can compost stems to produce fertiliser, which is added back to the vineyard.

This type of fertiliser is beneficial can be beneficial when added to new plots where young vines are going to be planted.

Question 3

What are the three use suggestions for stems?

Answer 3

To make antioxidant extracts

Converting the stems into activated carbon. This can then be used in water treatment.

Transforming grape stalks into biomass briquettes

Question 4

What are the two interesting uses for grape seeds?

Answer 4

grape seed extract which consists of polyphenols. It is advertised as an excellent source of antioxidants, good for cardiovascular health, and having anti inflammatory properties. A hot water extract is produced from the seeds and this is dehydrated to produce a powder.

The second use for grape seeds is to make grape seed oil which is used in food. Some feel it is a healthy cooking oil.

Question 5

What vitamin doe grape seeds contain?

Answer 5

Vitamin E

Question 6

What do wineries do with the grape skins?

Answer 6

they will sell or give away their pomace for grappa production.

Question 7

What are 3 other used for grape skins?

Answer 7

Creation of compounds to reduce lipid oxidation in meats such as pork beef and poultry

Production of powders that exhibit anti microbial properties on seafood products

Use as a source of tartaric acid which itself has a number of different uses.