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When a winemaking decision depends on an analytical result, the time it takes to obtain that result can make all the difference. At certain stages—from grape reception to fermentation, right through to barrel monitoring—waiting for results from an external laboratory can slow down the verification process and delay corrective action.
An article published by the French trade magazine Réussir Vigne (Issue 343—October 2026 —pp. 26–27) highlights two examples of CDR WineLab® in use in different contexts: a cooperative in Champagne focused on harvest monitoring and a Burgundy estate dedicated to the precise monitoring of its barrels. This is neither an independent validation of the instrument’s performance nor a comparison of methods, but rather practical case studies demonstrating where rapid on-site analysis can be useful.
At grape reception: quickly identify the lots that require further examination
The Vertus wine cooperative, located in the Marne region, has been using CDR WineLab® since 2021 during grape delivery. The stated goal of winemaker Louise Bertrand is to measure gluconic acid in order to make the inspection of incoming batches more accurate and faster.
Gluconic acid can be a useful indicator in the context of spoilage attributable, among other things, to sour rot. In a cooperative, where a single tank may hold grapes from multiple suppliers, being able to promptly identify batches that require further testing helps protect the uniformity and quality of the delivered batch.
In the interview, the winemaker highlights the speed of the test and the confidence gained through daily use of the instrument. The practical value lies not in replacing every specialized test, but in having timely analytical information to guide decisions during a particularly sensitive phase such as the harvest.
“It will help us isolate certain cuvées and thus maintain the quality of our wines. It provides assurance in our process.”— Louise Bertrand, winemaker at the Vertus Cooperative
The cooperative itself notes that it relies on a Cofrac-accredited laboratory for analyses requiring that level of certification. This is an important distinction: rapid in-house analysis and the external laboratory can play complementary roles, depending on the parameter, the purpose of the data, and applicable regulations.
In the cellar: monitor individual barrels more consistently
The second testimonial comes from Domaine Coudray-Bizot in Beaune. Jean-Jacques Coudray explains that he uses CDR WineLab® to monitor approximately fifty barrels individually, integrating the analyses into the various stages of the winemaking process.
Upon the arrival of the grapes, he checks residual sugars, pH, and total acidity; he also pays close attention to any issues related to acetic acid, which may be associated with the presence of fruit flies. These checks allow him to better understand the composition of the grape batches from the very beginning.
During vinification, the winemaker monitors the progress of malolactic fermentation by measuring malic acid. Once malolactic fermentation is complete, he continues by checking acetic acid and total acidity. Finally, before bottling, he checks the acetic acid and free SO₂ levels .
“The most important thing for me is the time it saves me.”— Jean-Jacques Coudray, Domaine Coudray-Bizot
For a winery with many batches to monitor, being able to perform these analyses directly in the cellar allows for more frequent and targeted monitoring. The interviewee particularly highlights the small sample size required, the availability of results in just a few minutes, and the ability to avoid sending samples to an external lab for certain tests.
The key aspect of his experience isn’t just speed—it’s the ability to integrate monitoring more closely into the production process. Having analytical data while assessing the evolution of a barrel allows one to decide whether to continue with further testing, compare the results with other cellar indicators, or take action according to one’s winemaking plan.
Speed, yes, but with a well-defined work method
These French testimonials also show that ease of use does not eliminate the need for training and organization. Every analysis requires representative sampling, adherence to the method’s instructions, and proper storage of reagents.
The quality of the result therefore depends on the entire process: the sample, the operator, the procedure, the conditions of use, and the interpretation of the data. For this reason, CDR WineLab® should be integrated into a quality control system consistent with the winery’s practices and, when necessary, supplemented by confirmatory analyses or by qualified laboratories.
A decision-making tool for situations where time is of the essence
The two case studies featured in *Réussir Vigne* (Issue 343—October 2026—pp. 26–27) describe different applications but share a common need: to make analytical testing more timely during the stages when data can guide decision-making.
Upon receipt of the grapes, a rapid analysis can help identify lots that warrant attention. During winemaking and aging, it can facilitate the monitoring of individual batches or barrels without having to wait each time for the results of a sample sent to an external lab.
CDR WineLab® is designed to bring this analytical capability directly into the winery. However, the selection of parameters to monitor, the frequency of analysis, and the resulting actions remain an integral part of the winemaker’s technical responsibility and the company’s quality management plan.
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