Blaze The Trail

We are very excited to bring to another Question and Answer session from our Winemaker duo Sean & Cal, as they answer questions that you ask them, exclusively here on Blaze the Trail.
Do you have a question for Sean or Cal? Ask them anything by submitting your question here.

This week, Winemaker Sean is back to answer all of your wine-related questions

Does the Cowell Ranch winery have a tasting room and tour? (From ltrigilio)
Cowell Ranch is an agricultural plot of land dedicated to growing the best grapes possible. Unfortunately, there is not currently a public tasting room.

Why do red and white wines require a different type of glass? (From gailschairer)
The shape of the glass is important, as it concentrates the flavor and aroma (or bouquet) to emphasize the varietal's characteristics.

My question is about the aging of wine. Why does aging wine make it worth more and taste better? Is it possible to age the wine too long? (From lttldude9)
While wine is perishable, the aroma, color, mouthfeel and taste can be altered over time. The ability of a wine to age is influenced by many factors including grape variety, vintage, viticultural practices, wine region and winemaking style. The condition that the wine is kept in after bottling can also influence how well a wine ages and may require significant time and financial investment.

Why are Napa valley grapes considered so good for wine? (From charky)
Napa Valley has had a reputation as a world-class wine-growing region for many years. The Napa Valley Grapegrowers Associated works to preserve Napa Valley's grapegrowing heritage, strengthen the wine industry's economic viability, promote environmentally and socially sustainable agriculture, and communicate the quality and character of Napa Valley vineyards.

Is it bad to put white wine in the freezer to chill it fast? (From jennjennbr)
Chilling a white wine in the freezer can drastically change the properties of the wine, so we would advise using the refrigerator instead.

How does an aerator help improve the taste of some wines? (From cmaringer)
A wine aerator helps a wine breathe, allowing it to open up, and release its intended aromas and flavors.

What is the best wine to give as a gift? (Especially if I don't know what foods they will be drinking it with) (From ty6er)
Pinot Noir is well-suited to pair with poultry, beef, fish, ham, lamb and pork. It will play well with creamy sauces, spicy seasonings and may just be one of the world's most versatile food wines.

How long does it take for a wine to ferment? Does it vary among wines, and additionally, what wine takes the longest? (From JaniceMonte)
Fermentation time varies based on the varietal and technique. An average time is roughly 10 days.

How many filled bottles come from ONE barrel? This would be interesting to know. (From chad3672)
We produce roughly 25 cases of wine per barrel, which equates to 300 bottles.

I have always wondered why some wines are sweet while other wines are dry. Is it because of the type of grape, the amount of sugar, the fermenting process, a combination of these factors, or something else? (From l010701)
Sweet wines can be a result of a higher amount of residual sugar or by other components such as acidity, tannins, alcohol, and temperature.

Do you have a question for Cal or Sean? Don't forget to head on over here and say hello.