ARROSEMENT Meaning and
Definition
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Arrosement is a French term that is mainly used in the field of winemaking. Also referred to as "arrosage" in English, it involves a technique commonly applied in the process of producing sparkling wines, such as Champagne. Arrosement is the act of adding or topping up a small amount of wine to a bottle of sparkling wine after the disgorgement stage.
Disgorgement is a critical step in the production of sparkling wines, wherein the sediment or lees that accumulate after the second fermentation are removed from the bottle. However, during this process, a small amount of wine may also be lost. Therefore, to compensate for this loss and maintain the desired level of liquid in the bottle, a wine with a similar composition is added back. This additional wine, known as the "arrosement," ensures that the bottle is filled to the appropriate level, typically around 750 milliliters.
The purpose of arrosement is not only to achieve the desired quantity but also to restore the consistency and quality of the sparkling wine. The added wine should possess similar characteristics and be of the same vintage and quality as the original wine in the bottle. This meticulous process ensures that the taste profile, balance, and overall integrity of the sparkling wine remain intact, allowing it to meet the desired standards expected by consumers.
In summary, arrosement refers to the act of topping up a bottle of sparkling wine after disgorgement with a similar wine, serving both practical and quality purposes in the winemaking process.
