Our Winemaking Process
Wine Genesis
Winemaking is a process that requires expertise, consistency, and absolute control at every stage. At Aretousa Wines, our approach is guided by a core principle: respect for the raw material and the unique character of each grape variety. Our goal is not to alter or over-intervene, but to reveal the full potential of the grape through a smooth, careful, and meticulously controlled process.
The grapes are transported to the winery on the same day of the harvest, immediately after picking. Our aim is to preserve their freshness, aromatic intensity, and natural balance. Harvesting is carried out exclusively by hand, and the grapes are placed in small plastic crates to avoid crushing, unnecessary pressure, and any premature onset of fermentation.
The reception of the raw material takes place under controlled temperature conditions to ensure the stability of its quality parameters.This is immediately followed by the quality control phase, during which both the physicochemical properties and the sanitary condition of the grapes are evaluated before they proceed to the next stages of processing.
Depending on the grape variety and the desired character of the final wine, different vinification protocols are applied. For white varieties, gentle pneumatic pressing is used, followed by must cooling and settling, aiming for clarity and the expression of aromatic characteristics. For red varieties, extraction is more extended, with controlled fermentation and close monitoring of phenolic compounds to ensure proper structure and balance in the wine.
Throughout the vinification process, parameters such as temperature, skin contact time, the ratio between skins and juice, and the use of natural or selected yeasts are carefully regulated by our winemaking team. We employ modern equipment with micro-management capabilities for each tank, placing special emphasis on consistency and the preservation of each batch’s unique character.
Maturation as a Defining Stage
At Aretousa Wines, the maturation process is a critical stage in shaping the final identity of each wine. Depending on the grape variety, the style, and the intended character of the wine, we carefully select the appropriate maturation environment, guided by our core philosophy: to preserve authenticity and enhance complexity.
For the fresh, aromatic expressions of certain white and rosé wines, we opt exclusively for maturation in stainless steel tanks. These tanks are equipped with advanced temperature control systems, allowing the process to take place under stable, low-temperature conditions. This approach preserves the wine’s volatile aromatic compounds, its freshness, vibrant fruit character, and the natural acidity that brings energy and balance to the final result. Every intervention is minimal and precise, ensuring that the wine becomes a true reflection of both the vineyard and the vintage.
Our philosophy remains consistent: every technical decision is made with the sole purpose of highlighting the quality of the grape — never to impose winemaking impressions. For us, winemaking is not an end in itself. It is a means of expression, a way to reveal what is already inherent in the fruit. Wine is born in the vineyard; in the winery, we simply give it form — with precision, respect, and creativity.