II.3.2.2 Filtration

Classification:

• Diatomite: processing aid
• Perlite: processing aid

Definition:

Physical process consisting of passing the wine through appropriate filters that retain particles in suspension.

Objectives:

a)        Clarifying the wine, if necessary by successive stages (clarifying filtration).

b)       Obtaining biological stability of the wine by elimination of microorganisms (sterilising filtration).

Prescriptions:

Filtration can be undertaken:

a)        By continuous deposition, using appropriate additives such as diatomaceous earth, perlite, cellulose…,

b)       On pads of cellulose or other appropriate materials,

c)        On mineral or organic membranes of a porosity greater than or equal to 0.2 m (microfiltration).

The filter materials used shall comply with the prescriptions of the International Oenological Codex.

Recommendation of OIV:

Refer to the practices and treatments mentioned hereafter.