We have written here before about the importance of caring for the exteriors of stainless steel wine barrels, like avoiding direct contact with uncoated carbon steel, preventing deep scratches and the occasional need for re-passivation. But just as important as it is to care for the exterior, the interior can be even more important, especially when using open head wine barrels for the small lot processing of grapes. The tools you use are key to care of the stainless wine drums. Most importantly, avoid carbon steel shovels, pitchforks and scoops as they can scratch the stainless steel. The best tools to use are those made of food grade polypropylene. These hygenic tools were specifically created for the handling of grapes, must and pomace and they are light-weight and easy to clean. These tool allows you to quickly move grapes and must, and they won’t damage or scratch stainless steel barrels, tanks or vats. Made of high-grade polypropylene which is virtually unbreakable and immune to rust or rot, they are approved under FDA regulations for direct food contact. They are also lightweight and can help vineyard and winery owners increase productivity and reduce labor costs by moving and processing grapes faster and more efficiently than ever before. Using shovels, rakes and pitchforks with tapered and starprofiled tines enable easy piercing and gathering of grapes and pomace. The material facing surface of the tines are flat, not round, so they won’t scratch or damage your stainless steel wine barrels. One of the primary benefits of using stainless steel wine barrels is their longevity, but they must be cared for and one of the best ways to do this is to use the right tools.
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