Modern Marvels: How Wine Is Made - Full Episode (S13, E54) | History

This paragraph introduces the art and science of winemaking, highlighting the significance of the grape harvest, or 'crush,' in California. It discusses the decision between machine and hand harvesting, the importance of nighttime handpicking to preserve grape freshness at Buena Vista Carneros, and the process of grape sorting and destemming. The transformation of grapes into wine is detailed, from the role of photosynthesis in sugar development to fermentation, where naturally occurring yeast converts sugar into alcohol. The paragraph also touches on the importance of grape variety and the impact of grape characteristics on wine flavor, as well as the historical and cultural importance of wine across civilizations.

This section delves into the historical aspects of winemaking, emphasizing the spread of winemaking by the Greeks, Egyptians, and Romans, and the detailed studies of French monks starting in the 11th century A.D., which led to the identification of prime wine-producing land. The challenges faced by Buena Vista winery due to the vine-killing insect phylloxera in the 1990s and the subsequent replanting of vineyards are discussed. The paragraph also explores the concept of 'stress' in grapevines and its effect on wine intensity. Precision farming techniques, including digital aerial photography and thermal mapping, are introduced as modern methods to improve vineyard management. The use of GPS technology for vineyard layout and the process of grafting root stocks and scion wood to create new vines are also covered.

The focus of this paragraph is on the meticulous management of vineyards to produce unique wines. It discusses the selection of root stocks and scion wood to match soil conditions and the winemaker's goals. The importance of clones within grape varieties for different flavor profiles and the strategy of harvesting and fermenting different blocks of grapes separately to create complex blends are highlighted. The impact of technology on the recovery and success of Buena Vista Carneros after the phylloxera epidemic is also mentioned, along with the contrast between large-scale producers like Bronco Winery and handcrafted wine producers like Chateau Montelena.

This segment contrasts the mass production techniques of Bronco Winery with the artisanal approach of Chateau Montelena. It details the high-volume production capabilities of Bronco, including the use of mechanical harvesters, high-capacity presses, and rapid fermentation processes. The paragraph also discusses the economic model of Bronco Winery, which aims to provide good wine at affordable prices, as exemplified by its popular 'Two Buck Chuck' brand. The role of consumer demand and the importance of understanding the market to succeed in the wine industry are emphasized.

This paragraph recounts the historic 'Judgment of Paris' in 1976, a blind tasting that pitted California wines against French wines and resulted in a victory for the Californian entries, significantly altering global perceptions of California wines. The commitment to quality and craftsmanship at Chateau Montelena and the aging process of wines in oak barrels are discussed. The importance of blending, tasting, and the meticulous attention to detail in the production of handcrafted wines is highlighted, emphasizing the time-intensive process and the resulting quality of wines like champagne.

The creation and history of champagne are explored in this section, from its accidental discovery due to the cold climate in the Champagne region, which paused fermentation during winter, to the efforts of Dom Perignon to control the bubbling effect. The importance of the region's unique geography and history, the preference of the English for sparkling wine, and the establishment of champagne houses like Perrier-Jouet are covered. The process of champagne making, including the use of three grape varieties, the blending of new wine with older wines to maintain a consistent 'house style,' and the secondary fermentation that produces carbonation, is detailed. The strict laws governing the use of the name 'Champagne' and the limited production ensuring quality are also mentioned.

This paragraph discusses the history and production of port wine, a fortified wine from Portugal's Douro Valley. The process of fortification, adding brandy to wine to stop fermentation and create a semi-sweet wine with a higher alcohol content, is explained. The geopolitical reasons behind the development of port, including British trade with Portugal and the need to preserve wine during long journeys, are highlighted. The evolution of port production, from traditional foot-treading to modern mechanical and robotic methods, and the focus on maintaining the unique flavors and character of port are discussed. The different styles of port, including ruby and tawny, and the practice of declaring vintage years for exceptional wines, are also covered.

The aging process of wine and its effects on aroma and flavor complexity are explored in this section. The story of La Tour d'Argent's historic wine cellar in Paris, which dates back to the 1820s and houses a vast collection of prized vintages, is recounted. The efforts of the former owner to protect the cellar from the Nazis during World War II are highlighted. The importance of proper storage conditions for aging wine, such as temperature and humidity control, is emphasized. The rise of private wine cellars as a fusion of technology, personal history, and wine appreciation is discussed, with examples of custom-designed cellars that cater to the specific needs and collections of their owners.

The final paragraph reminds viewers of the primary purpose of wine—to be enjoyed. It notes that the majority of wines are meant for immediate consumption rather than long-term aging, and encourages wine drinkers to savor and share their favorite bottles. The joy of discovering and tasting lesser-known labels and the deep personal connection that some individuals develop with wine are emphasized. The paragraph concludes with a nod to the passion and obsession that wine can inspire, and an invitation to indulge in the experience of tasting and appreciating wine.