316 GRAPE CULTUKE AND 



move it to a different temperature, or you need the casks for 

 further fermentatiou. 



3d. Do not rack when the vine is in bloom, or when the 

 fruit commences to color. 



4th. Do not have the wine exposed to the air for any 

 length of time. 



5th. Take care to do it thoroughly, and keep it clear from 

 all traces of sediment. 



6th. During either very hot or very cold weather, keep the 

 door of cellar or fermenting room closed, so as to avoid 

 changes of temperature. 



Generally speaking, racking is necessary only twice a year, 

 if performed thoroughly and well. New wines should be 

 racked in December, or as soon as clear, then again in Feb- 

 ruary or March, and again in August. This will of course 

 vary with the climate, and no fixed rule can be given. Un- 

 less the wine has been handled and racked very carefully, a 

 slight fermentation takes place in June or July, and as soon 

 as it becomes entirely quiet again, it should be racked. Very 

 much depends on the thoroughness of the operation, when 

 performed the first and second time. 



