During fermentation a 'cap' of conglomerated solids forms on top of fermenting wine due to the upward thrust of CO2 and other gases resulting from the process. Pumping over is a means of percolating the juices at the bottom of the tank through those solids--skins, pulp, and seeds that contribute character to the final wine--gently pushing them back into the mix. Additionally, the pumpover offers a way to introduce additional oxygen into the mix, keeping the yeasts (who are responsible for performing fermentation) happy. Quite a mouthful! If you stick around to see the end of the video you may catch a glimpse of winemaker Kevin Sass, tasting the Grenache (from the same batch that is undergoing pumpover), and then (responsibly) spitting it down the drain. Enjoy!
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