Riddling
Riddling is an important traditional process in making sparkling wines like champagne. It involves gradually turning and tilting bottles to move sediment to the bottle neck for removal. While some wineries still do this by hand, many now use automated machines called gyropalettes. When you see this term on a resume, it shows the candidate has experience in sparkling wine production, either using traditional hand-riddling methods (also called 'remuage') or modern automated systems. This process is essential for producing clear, high-quality sparkling wines.
Examples in Resumes
Managed Riddling operations for 50,000 bottles of sparkling wine annually
Trained staff in traditional hand Riddling techniques and automated Riddling systems
Supervised the Riddling process using both manual and gyropalette methods
Typical job title: "Cellar Workers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Cellar Workers
Professional Organizations
Industry Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you set up and manage a riddling program for a new sparkling wine production facility?
Expected Answer: Should discuss planning production schedules, choosing between manual and automated systems, training staff, quality control measures, and troubleshooting common issues.
Q: What factors influence riddling time and effectiveness?
Expected Answer: Should explain how wine temperature, sediment amount, bottle shape, and rotation angles affect the process, demonstrating comprehensive production knowledge.
Mid Level Questions
Q: Compare manual riddling versus using a gyropalette.
Expected Answer: Should discuss pros and cons of each method, including labor costs, time requirements, consistency, and quality considerations.
Q: What are common problems that can occur during riddling and how do you address them?
Expected Answer: Should identify issues like stuck sediment, improper angles, or timing problems, and explain appropriate solutions.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Describe the basic steps of the riddling process.
Expected Answer: Should explain the gradual turning and tilting of bottles, typical timeframes, and the goal of moving sediment to the bottle neck.
Q: What safety considerations are important during riddling?
Expected Answer: Should mention proper handling of glass bottles, ergonomic concerns for manual riddling, and basic equipment safety.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic bottle handling techniques
- Understanding of sparkling wine production steps
- Operating automated riddling equipment
- Following safety procedures
Mid (2-5 years)
- Manual riddling techniques
- Quality control monitoring
- Equipment maintenance
- Production scheduling
Senior (5+ years)
- Program management
- Staff training and supervision
- Process optimization
- Troubleshooting complex issues
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on experience with sparkling wine production
- Unfamiliarity with basic wine cellar safety practices
- Lack of attention to detail in previous roles
- No knowledge of quality control procedures
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