It’s no secret that red wine is one of the world’s most beloved beverages, enjoyed for its rich flavours, complexity, and ability to evolve with age. But have you ever wondered how red wine is made? The process is both an art and a science, blending centuries-old traditions with modern winemaking techniques. At Canterbury Wines, we take pride in curating some of the finest red wines available, and understanding their journey from grape to glass only deepens the appreciation of every sip.
Step 1 – Selecting and Harvesting the Grapes
The foundation of any great red wine lies in the quality of its grapes. Red wine is typically made from dark-skinned grape varieties such as Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, and Grenache, each offering unique characteristics. Timing is everything in the vineyard – grapes must be picked at peak ripeness to achieve the ideal balance of sugar, acidity, and tannins. Harvesting can be done by hand or machine, with many premium wineries favouring hand-picking to ensure only the best grapes make it into production. Once harvested, the grapes are quickly transported to the winery to prevent oxidation and fermentation from starting prematurely.
Step 2 – Crushing and Fermentation
Unlike white wine, where grape skins are removed early in the process, red wine derives its colour, tannins, and many of its complex flavours from prolonged contact with the skins. After destemming, the grapes are gently crushed to release their juice while keeping the skins intact. Fermentation begins when natural or added yeast converts the grape sugars into alcohol; during this process, the grape skins rise to the surface, forming a “cap”. Winemakers regularly submerge or pump over this cap to extract more colour, flavour, and tannins, shaping the final profile of the wine. The fermentation process can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the desired style of the wine.
Step 3 – Pressing and Maturation
Once fermentation is complete, the wine is separated from the grape solids. The free-run juice, which drains naturally, is often considered the highest quality. The remaining grape skins are then gently pressed to extract any remaining liquid, which may be blended back in to add structure to the wine. Maturation plays a crucial role in developing the wine’s character. Red wines are typically aged in oak barrels or stainless steel tanks, with oak imparting additional complexity through subtle notes of vanilla, spice, or smokiness. The length of ageing varies – lighter reds like Pinot Noir may be aged for a shorter period, while robust styles such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Shiraz benefit from extended maturation.
Step 4 – Bottling and Ageing
Before bottling, the wine may undergo fining and filtration to remove any remaining solids and ensure clarity. Some winemakers choose to avoid heavy filtration, allowing the wine to retain more of its natural texture and flavour. Once bottled, the ageing process continues. Some red wines are best enjoyed young, while others, such as premium Penfolds vintages, can develop beautifully over decades. Proper storage (cool, dark, and with minimal temperature fluctuation) ensures the wine reaches its full potential when uncorked.
Experience the Best of Red Wine with Canterbury Wines
Now that you know how red wine is made, there’s no better time to explore the exceptional selection available at Canterbury Wines. Whether you prefer a bold and structured Cabernet Sauvignon, an elegant Pinot Noir, or a rich and fruit-driven Shiraz, we’ve curated a collection that showcases the finest expressions of each varietal. Our extensive back vintage range, hand-selected wine packs, and expert recommendations ensure that every bottle delivers on quality and value. And for those looking to expand their cellar, our climate-controlled storage and competitive pricing make Canterbury Wines the perfect partner for your wine journey.
Discover your next favourite red wine today – browse our red wine collection online and experience the craftsmanship behind every bottle.
