Today we are blending our 2018 barrel fermented chardonnay. Check out the beautiful lees left over from the from blending! #creamy!

What are lees in wine?⁣ ⁣

The lees in wine are essentially the dead yeast cells, leftover from the fermentation process. ⁣

Stirring the lees is a process in which leftover yeast particles that settle on the tank or barrel bottom are stirred up and gently agitated in white and sparkling wines. ⁣ ⁣

This “sur lie aning” process is known to add textures and flavours to the wine. It is believed that white wines that are fermented and aged in lees are often described as having greater depth, richer, creamer and fuller-bodied flavours.⁣

So why does aging on lees matter? Because, depending on the wine, it could absolutely impart flavour.