Tech4RedWines: Sensorized Fermentation System for Indigenous Red Wines

The Challenge

For many small wineries, fermentation remains a largely manual process that depends heavily on the winemaker’s experience and continuous supervision. Variations in temperature, oxygen, or redox potential can easily affect the outcome, risking stalled fermentations or quality loss. Managing these variables precisely is essential but often impractical without automation tools. The challenge was to design a cost-effective, reliable, and user-friendly systemthat could support traditional wineries in achieving consistent results while preserving the character of their local grape varieties.

The Solution

Tech4RedWines developed a sensorized and automated fermentation system that integrates cutting-edge technologies into the traditional winemaking environment. The system combines multiparametric sensors (pH, ORP, dissolved oxygen, O₂, ethylene) with a PLC-based control and monitoring platform featuring a human–machine interface (HMI) for easy operation. 

A major innovation lies in the Near-Infrared (NIR) spectroscopy module, which predicts Yeast Assimilable Nitrogen (YAN) levels in real time — a key parameter for fermentation stability. Tested under realistic conditions, the system demonstrated the ability to stabilise key variables, automate oxygen management, and reduce the need for manual interventions, improving both process reliability and product quality.

Impact

The project achieved Technology Readiness Level 8 (TRL8), confirming the system’s maturity and readiness for deployment in operational settings.
Main achievements include:

• Full integration and validation of multiple sensors and control algorithms.
• Significant reduction in manual interventions during fermentation.
• Enhanced stability of key fermentation parameters (pH, ORP, oxygen).
• Practical knowledge on mechanical design, maintenance, and scalability for wider adoption.

Beyond technical validation, Tech4RedWines proves that digitalisation can empower artisanal wineries, making them more competitive and resilient while aligning with Europe’s sustainability and digital transition goals.

What’s Next?

With the pilot successfully completed, the project partners are now preparing for scaling and replication. The modular architecture allows the system to be adapted for different tank sizes and winery configurations. Future plans include refining mechanical components, expanding data models for improved prediction accuracy, and engaging regional wine clusters to promote technology transfer across Europe’s agri-food sector.

By blending centuries-old craft with advanced monitoring and automation, Tech4RedWines is shaping a smarter, more sustainable future for European red wines.