Giesen Group innovates for sustainable wine processing with decanter technology
At Giesen winery, New Zealand, they have made a breakthrough of their signature Sauvignon blanc wine, by switching from conventional presses to decanter centrifuge. The results are more than half of reduction of water use, and more than half of saving in footprint.
DATE 2025-03-17
The process of juice extraction is the single most important step in wine production. Previously, this involved presses and continuous flotation to achieve clarified juice. With the decanter, the grape juice goes directly from the buffer tank to the decanter, cutting out these steps. This technology, already used by winemakers in South Africa who work with similar grapes to produce fruit-forward styles, was trialed by Giesen Group to compare its effectiveness in terms of extraction level, throughput, and wine quality. The results showed that, compared with the press/flotation process, the extraction levels were comparable, but there were improvements in net extraction due to the lower solid content of the juice. A higher juice yield directly impacts profitability as well as winery efficiency and footprint.
The throughput with the decanter was about the same, but it required a smaller footprint, allowing Giesen Group to gain space by removing the flotation and lees filtration machines. In terms of quality, the decanter performed at least comparably. Duncan particularly appreciates the freshness of the juice and the reduction in oxidation, which are key components in making a fresh, aromatic style of wine.
Giesen Group chose Alfa Laval as their equipment supplier due to their service, proven track record, and relevant process understanding. Alfa Laval delivers the same performance as other decanter manufacturers with a smaller, better-priced unit. They demonstrated a high level of analysis and understanding of outcomes in the context of the Marlborough region and the entire process for Sauvignon Blanc grape processing. Additionally, the machine operators preferred using the Alfa Laval decanter. Another factor in selecting the new equipment was the reduction of moving parts and easier-to-clean decanters. The stainless-steel material of the Alfa Laval Foodec decanter ensures a strong and durable machine with fewer repairs and maintenance needs over time.
Giesen Group commissioned the Alfa Laval Foodec decanters during the 2022 harvest, achieving excellent results for juice yield and clarity. For Giesen Group, sustainability and environmental considerations are vital as they grow and expand the business. Increasing production while maintaining quality and considering climate change and environmental changes in the Marlborough region, such as an increase in extreme weather events, are crucial. The decanter technology helps achieve these goals by improving efficiency and reducing the environmental footprint.
