Winemakers use wine centrifuges in the final stages of the process to filter and ferment wine. These high-powered machines filter the wine by removing sediment and other unwanted solids from the wine. This process is “clarification.” In the fermentation process, the winemakers centrifuge apparatus adds the final touches to fermenting wine by removing yeast cells.

A centrifuge for wine making remains critical in the overall wine making process. In fact, it’s just as important as other equipment, such as wine bottle centrifuges. Winemakers regard each step in the process of making wine as a vital factor deciding the quality of the result. As you search for wine centrifuge equipment, your ultimate choice may depend upon certain distinct characteristics of these machines.

1. Get a centrifuge for wine designed to peel solids remaining in the bowl.

2. Choose wine making centrifuges with automatic removal of sediment.

3. Opt for wine centrifuges that depend on filter cloths or tubes to remove unwanted particles.

4. Lower your cost by purchasing used wine centrifuges reconditioned for sale.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get pivotal peeler wine centrifuges or three column centrifuges to remove unwanted solids

Your choice here depends upon how you intend to remove the solids from the settled wine--automatically or manually.

I recommend: Three Column Centrifuges employs a knife that resembles a pivot peeler to remove solids. The Vintner's Vault online catalog of commercial wine making equipment includes column and peeler-type centrifuges. Contact a sales representative to special order a centrifuge from another manufacturer that the company does not usually carry.

Find pusher type wine centrifuges that work continuously to dispel sediment

These wine making centrifuges have moving bases with oscillating power.

I recommend: Pall carries five different models of pusher wine centrifuges for sale. The company leads the market in manufacturing food and beverage filtration systems. Contact P & L Specialties in Santa Rosa, California if you need a custom pusher type centrifuge built to your specifications.

Select inverting filter and tubular wine centrifuges

In this centrifuge, a filter is turned upside down and lined with a cloth so that it catches solids more gently.

I recommend: Minneapolis-based Midwest Homebrewing Supplies sells filters and straining bags for use in smaller wine making businesses. The Wine Making Superstore sells centrifuges that work manually with straining bags and filters to gently trap the sediment from wine.

Consider buying a second hand winery centrifuge

Used wine centrifuges remain a special attraction to smaller wine producers. Some manufacturers specialize in refurbishing used wine centrifuge machines for resale to equipment suppliers.

I recommend: For more than 40 years, the Presque Isle Wine Cellars has supplied new and used equipment to wine makers. Contact California-based Scott Laboratories to deal with a sales representative who will search for used wine centrifuges that fit your specific operations.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Don't depend on wine centrifuges to do all of the clarification required to produce exceptional wine. Some winemakers add chemicals that aid in the removal of unwanted particles.