What is 'must weight' in the context of winemaking?

'Must weight' refers to the measurement of sugar concentration present in the grape juice before fermentation begins. This measurement is crucial in winemaking, as it indicates the potential alcohol content of the wine. A higher must weight typically means a higher sugar content, which can lead to a more robust fermentation process and a greater potential alcohol level in the final wine product.

Understanding must weight is essential for winemakers to achieve their desired outcomes in flavor, body, and alcohol levels in the wine. It is usually measured in degrees Brix, which indicates the percentage of sugar by weight in the grape juice. This measurement allows winemakers to make informed decisions about when to harvest the grapes and how to manage the fermentation process to create the desired style of wine.