SO2 Management
SO2 Management refers to controlling sulfur dioxide levels in wine production. Think of it like a preservative system that winemakers use to protect wine from spoiling and maintain its quality. Just as food producers use various methods to keep food fresh, winemakers use SO2 management to keep wine stable and ensure it ages properly. This process involves carefully adding and monitoring sulfur dioxide throughout different stages of winemaking, from grape processing to bottling. It's a critical skill that helps prevent wine from turning bad or losing its desired flavors.
Examples in Resumes
Developed and implemented SO2 Management protocols for premium wine production
Monitored and maintained proper Sulfur Dioxide levels throughout fermentation process
Trained cellar staff on SO2 testing and adjustment procedures
Typical job title: "Winemakers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Winemakers
Professional Organizations
Industry Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you adjust SO2 management strategies for different wine styles?
Expected Answer: A senior winemaker should explain how different wines (red, white, sweet) need different SO2 levels, and how factors like pH and temperature affect their approach. They should mention specific examples from their experience.
Q: Describe a challenging SO2-related situation you've handled and how you resolved it.
Expected Answer: They should describe a specific problem (like high pH wines or organic wine production), their problem-solving process, and the outcome, showing leadership and technical knowledge.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What methods do you use to test SO2 levels and how often do you test?
Expected Answer: Should describe common testing methods, typical testing schedules during different production stages, and how they maintain records of measurements and adjustments.
Q: How do you train staff on proper SO2 management procedures?
Expected Answer: Should explain their approach to training others on safety procedures, measurement techniques, and proper documentation, showing both technical knowledge and teaching ability.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic safety considerations when handling SO2?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of basic safety protocols, protective equipment requirements, and emergency procedures when working with sulfur dioxide.
Q: Explain the difference between free and total SO2.
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain in simple terms that free SO2 is the active form that protects wine, while total SO2 includes both free and bound forms.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic SO2 testing procedures
- Understanding of wine chemistry fundamentals
- Safety protocols for chemical handling
- Record keeping and documentation
Mid (2-5 years)
- Independent SO2 adjustments
- Problem diagnosis and correction
- Staff training on SO2 procedures
- Quality control management
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced wine chemistry knowledge
- Custom SO2 program development
- Process optimization
- Team management and training
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of basic wine chemistry knowledge
- No experience with SO2 testing equipment
- Poor understanding of wine safety protocols
- Inadequate documentation practices
- No knowledge of legal SO2 limits in wine
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