The word of the day is: Ullage

In continuing to monitor the progress of our wine, we periodically need to address the evaporation that takes place from the barrel. If a container isn't completely air-tight, such as an oak wine barrel, evaporation takes place and the alcohol and water particles in the wine can escape as vapors. This is referred to as ullage.

Ullage (pronounced uh-lij) which comes from the French ouillage, has many definitions, one of which describes this process of wine evaporating from a wooden container, such as a barrel. It is also used to describe the head space within the barrel that is caused by such evaporation. And, if you want to impress your friends at your next party, it is also used to identify the air space in a sealed bottle of wine. Regardless of what it is called, the head space in the barrel often needs to be “topped off” to fill the empty space, which, ironically, is referred to as...ullage.

Sometimes we have to get a little creative on how we actually reach the barrels to make sure they are full.

In addition to topping off the barrels, we like to take a sample from each barrel to check the progress. Speaking of progress, I must say the wine is coming along quite nicely. The flavors are continuing to develop and the color is a beautiful, rich garnet. We are so thrilled with the progress and can't wait to share the finished product with everyone.

As the calendar counts down to the end of 2012, we would like to take this time to wish you and your family all the best. May you be surrounded by loved ones as you share good stories, great food, and fantastic wines.

Happy Holidays!