What's the difference between unfiltered and unfined wines?

Wine is an alcoholic beverage that has been enjoyed by people all over the world for centuries. It is made from fermented grapes and is available in a variety of types, styles, and flavours. When it comes to wine production, there are many different techniques that can be used to create a particular type of wine. One such technique is the use of fining and filtering agents to remove impurities from the wine.

What are Unfiltered Wines?

Unfiltered wines, as the name suggests, are wines that have not been filtered. This means that they have not been passed through a filter to remove any solid particles or sediment that may be present in the wine. When grapes are pressed, the juice that is produced contains a variety of solid particles, such as grape skins, stems, and seeds. During the fermentation process, these particles settle to the bottom of the container, forming a layer of sediment. This sediment can be removed through filtration, leaving a clear, polished wine behind.

However, some winemakers choose not to filter their wines. This is because filtering can remove not only the sediment but also some of the wine's flavour and character. By leaving the sediment in the wine, unfiltered wines can have a richer, more complex flavour profile. However, they can also be cloudy and have a slightly gritty texture due to the sediment.

What are Unfined Wines?

Unfined wines are wines that have not been treated with fining agents. Fining agents are substances that are added to wine to remove any impurities or cloudiness that may be present. These agents work by binding with the unwanted particles in the wine and causing them to settle to the bottom of the container. The wine is then racked off the sediment, leaving behind a clear, polished wine.

Some common fining agents include egg whites, gelatin, and fish bladder. These agents are often derived from animal products, which can make the wine unsuitable for vegans or people with certain dietary restrictions. Unfined wines are typically vegan-friendly, as they do not contain any animal products.

Is one better than the other?

The question of whether unfiltered or unfined wines are better is a matter of personal preference. Both techniques have their advantages and disadvantages, and it ultimately depends on the winemaker's style and the type of wine they are trying to produce.

Unfiltered wines can have a more complex flavour profile, as they retain more of the wine's natural character. However, they can also be cloudy and have a gritty texture due to the sediment. Unfined wines, on the other hand, are typically clear and polished, but they may have a slightly smoother, less complex flavour profile due to the removal of impurities.

It is also worth noting that unfiltered and unfined wines may be more prone to spoilage or oxidation. This is because they contain more natural sediment and impurities, which can provide a breeding ground for bacteria and other microorganisms. Winemakers who choose to produce unfiltered or unfined wines must take extra precautions to ensure that their wines are properly stored and handled to prevent spoilage.

Unfiltered and unfined wines are two different techniques that can be used to produce wine. Whether one is better than the other depends on personal preference and the type of wine being produced. Unfiltered wines can have a more complex flavour profile, but they may be cloudy and have a gritty texture. Unfined wines are typically clear and polished, but they may have a slightly less complex flavour profile. Ultimately, it is up to the winemaker to decide which technique to use based on their desired flavour profile and style.