Winter is a time when nature slows down and retreats into rest. People also take this time to slow their pace and enjoy warm evenings. During this period, our apple wine matures and develops its rich apple character.
1. From Apples to Juice
Every bottle of Malner cider begins with selecting the finest apples. In autumn, we harvest only fully ripened fruit, which is key to a rich aromatic profile. After careful selection, the apples are milled and pressed into fresh apple juice, which then serves as the foundation for fermentation.
2. Fermentation – Where Juice Becomes Wine
Fermentation is the heart of the process—a natural transformation where the sugars in the juice are converted by carefully selected yeasts into alcohol and carbon dioxide. As fermentation progresses, sugar levels gradually decrease until they are fully consumed (dry wine) or partially retained (semi-dry/sweet wine). This stage lasts about three weeks, during which various secondary compounds, such as esters, higher alcohols, and acids, develop, contributing to the aromatic complexity of the wine.
3. Aging Apple Wine – The Key to Full Flavor
Once fermentation subsides, a new phase begins—aging. This process takes at least six months, during which the wine is racked multiple times to remove dead yeast cells and allow it to develop its full complexity. Aging is complete when the wine reaches stability, no longer changes, and shines in its full aromatic harmony.
Why Do We Age Apple Wine?
🍏 Stability – Young wine is dynamic; over time, its compounds balance out.
🍏 Clarity – Settling of yeast ensures a crystal-clear wine.
🍏 Flavor Development – Aging softens acidity, enriches texture, and enhances refined aromas.
Choosing the Aging Medium
- Stainless Steel (Inox) preserves the authenticity of apple notes, as it does not impart additional aromas—ideal for those who want to highlight the fruit’s fresh character.
- Wood barrels act as a spice, adding depth and warmth to the wine. Barrel selection (size, wood thickness, type of wood, degree of toasting) plays a crucial role, making intentional aging essential to achieving the desired result.
🌿 New barrels – Enhance bold, rich tones of vanilla, caramel, or spices.
🌿 Older barrels – Gently round out the flavor and allow for a subtle development of aromas.
By choosing the right aging medium and allowing time to work its magic, each apple wine can achieve its perfect expression.
Fermentation creates wine; aging refines and elevates it.
