Insights from Te Mata Estate Winery on Barrel Cleaning

The Benefits of Gamajet HDBB Units and BETE HydroWhirl Stinger 2 Units: Insights from Te Mata Estate Winery

At Te Mata Estate Winery, the meticulous process of winemaking involves not only the crafting of exquisite wines but also the maintenance of the equipment used in the process. Martyn Wallace, one of the winemakers at Te Mata, shares his insights on the benefits of using Gamajet HDBB units and BETE HydroWhirl Stinger 2 units for barrel cleaning.

Efficient Cleaning with Gamajet HDBB Units

After racking the wine, winemakers are left with lees at the bottom of the barrels. To ensure these barrels are thoroughly cleaned, Te Mata Estate Winery employs Gamajet HDBB units for hot washing and steam washing. According to Martyn, these units are highly effective in removing the stubborn lees, ensuring the barrels are spotless and ready for the next batch of wine.

One of the standout features of the Gamajet HDBB units is their durability. Martyn mentions that they were advised against using Italian barrel cleaners due to their shorter lifespan. In contrast, the Alfa Laval/Gamajet units have proven to be more reliable and long-lasting, which is crucial for maintaining consistent cleaning standards in the winery. This reliability reduces the need for frequent replacements, saving both time and money in the long run.

Water-Saving and Reliable BETE HydroWhirl Stinger 2 Units

For the cold rinse process, Te Mata Estate Winery utilizes the BETE HydroWhirl Stinger 2 units, specifically the 3/8 HWS 30.6-G, which is similar to the HWS2-10. Martyn highlights several benefits of using these units. Firstly, they are highly efficient in water usage, which is an important consideration for sustainable winemaking practices. The Stinger units require no service parts, further reducing maintenance costs and downtime.

A unique advantage of the HydroWhirl Stinger 2 units is their audible operation. Martyn explains that in the past, different nozzles were used, but newer workers often couldn’t tell if a nozzle got stuck and stopped spinning. This could lead to barrels not being rinsed properly, as the issue might go unnoticed. With the Stinger units, the audible operation ensures that any malfunction is immediately apparent, allowing for quick intervention and ensuring all barrels are properly rinsed.

Longevity and Cost-Effectiveness

Martyn also notes the impressive longevity of the BETE HydroWhirl Stinger 2 units. Typically, they get a good 3-4 years of use out of these units, which justifies their higher initial cost. This durability means that the winery does not need to purchase replacements frequently, making the investment in Stinger units cost-effective over time. In fact, Te Mata Estate Winery purchased their current units in 2022 and has not needed to replace them since.

Conclusion

The experiences shared by Martyn Wallace at Te Mata Estate Winery underscore the significant benefits of using Gamajet HDBB units and BETE HydroWhirl Stinger 2 units in the winemaking process. The Gamajet HDBB units provide efficient and thorough cleaning with exceptional durability, while the BETE HydroWhirl Stinger 2 units offer water-saving capabilities, reliable operation, and impressive longevity. These advantages not only enhance the cleaning process but also contribute to the overall efficiency and sustainability of the winery’s operations. For wineries looking to optimize their cleaning processes, the insights from Te Mata Estate Winery serve as a valuable guide in selecting the right equipment.