Winemaking techniques: Charmat method (secondary fermentation in autoclave) – Discover the Best Wines

Secondary fermentation in an autoclave, also known as the Charmat Method, is a winemaking technique used to produce fresh, aromatic sparkling wines. This process takes place in large pressurised containers (autoclaves), where the wine undergoes a second fermentation thanks to the addition of sugars and selected yeasts. Characteristics of the Charmat Method Colour Whites: Bright straw yellow with greenish highlights. Rosés: Tones of pale pink or luminous salmon. Aromas Fruity: Notes of green apple, pear, peach and citrus. Floral: Hints of white flowers, acacia and wisteria. Palate Fresh and lively: With balanced acidity and a fine, persistent mousse. Light and harmonious: Ideal for drinking young and straight away. Stages of the Process 1. First Fermentation The must ferments to turn the sugars into alcohol, producing the base wine. 2. Second Fermentation The base wine is transferred to autoclaves, where the tirage syrup (sugars and yeasts) is added. This starts the secondary fermentation, with the development of carbon dioxide and bubbles. 3. Stabilisation The sparkling wine is chilled and filtered to remove the yeast residues. 4. Bottling Once the process is complete, the wine is bottled under pressure to keep the mousse. Types of Sparkling Wine Charmat Method Brut: Up to 12 g/l of residual sugar, fresh and dry. Extra Dry: 12-17 g/l residual sugar, soft and fruity. Dry: 17-32 g/l residual sugar, balanced sweetness. Ideal Grape Varieties for the Charmat Method White Grape Varieties Glera: The heart of Prosecco production. Moscato Bianco: Perfect for aromatic and sweet sparkling wines. Chardonnay: Adds elegance and structure. Black Grape Varieties Pinot Nero: Used for elegant, aromatic rosés. Food Pairings Brut Sparkling Wines Starters: Fish tartare, salmon carpaccio. First Courses: Lemon pasta, vegetable risottos. Extra Dry Sparkling Wines Seafood Dishes: Grilled prawns, fried squid. Fried food: Vegetable tempura, mixed fried fish. Sweet Sparkling Wines Desserts: Fruit tarts, dry biscuits. Fruit: Strawberries, melon, peach. Why Choose Secondary Fermentation in Tank? The Charmat Method is ideal for anyone looking for fresh, aromatic and highly versatile sparkling wines. Perfect for aperitifs, toasts and light pairings, it brings out the characteristics of the variety and of the terroir at their best.

Charmat method (secondary fermentation in tank): My personal podium

1
Asprinio Brut Non-vintage - I Borboni
- Type: Sparkling wine or Champagne
- Region: Aversa, Campania, Italy
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2
Charme 2025 - Firriato
- Type: Vino Bianco
- Region: Etna, Italy, Sicily
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3
Colle 170 2023 - La Vigna di Sarah
- Type: Sparkling wine or Champagne
- Region: Italy, Valdobbiadene, Veneto
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