What is a fusti tank?

Answered by Randall Whitlock

A fusti tank is a versatile storage vessel commonly used in the industry. It is typically made of stainless steel, which makes it durable, easy to clean, and resistant to corrosion. The tank is cylindrical in shape and comes in various sizes, ranging from a few liters to several hundred liters.

One of the notable features of a fusti tank is the presence of handles, which allow for easy transportation. These handles are usually located near the top of the tank and are designed to be sturdy and comfortable to grip. This makes it convenient to move the tank around, whether it's from one part of the winery to another or even to a different location.

Another key characteristic of a fusti tank is its screw-top lid. This lid ensures a secure and airtight seal, preventing any contaminants from entering the tank and affecting the contents. The lid also allows for easy access to the tank, making it simple to add or remove liquids as needed.

Fusti tanks are incredibly versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes in winemaking. One common use is as settling tanks, where the wine is allowed to rest and any sediment or solids can settle at the bottom of the tank. This helps to clarify the wine before it is transferred to another vessel for further aging or bottling.

Additionally, fusti tanks can be used for racking out . After the wine has aged in oak barrels, it may need to be transferred to another container for blending or further aging. Fusti tanks provide an excellent option for this process, as their shape and size can accommodate the volume of wine typically found in barrels.

Blending wines is another application for fusti tanks. Winemakers often blend different varietals or batches of wine to achieve the desired taste and characteristics. Fusti tanks provide an ideal vessel for this process, as they can be easily moved and offer a convenient way to mix and taste different wines before finalizing the blend.

It is important to note that fusti tanks are not typically used for long-term storage of wine. While they can be effective for short-term storage or for specific winemaking processes, such as those mentioned above, they are not designed to provide the same level of aging and preservation as traditional oak barrels or specialized wine storage tanks.

A fusti tank is a versatile and portable storage vessel commonly used in the wine industry. Its stainless steel construction, handles for portability, and screw-top lid make it ideal for various winemaking processes such as settling, racking out barrels, and blending. However, it is important to consider its limitations and suitability for long-term wine storage.