Total Acidity
Total Acidity is a basic but important measurement in winemaking that shows how tart or sharp a wine tastes. It's like a report card for wine's freshness and balance. Winemakers measure this to make sure their wine will taste good and stay fresh over time. When you see this term in a resume, it means the person knows how to test and adjust wine quality. This is similar to measuring pH levels, but gives a more complete picture of the wine's character. Other ways people might refer to this are "TA measurement," "titratable acidity," or "fixed acidity."
Examples in Resumes
Performed daily Total Acidity and pH analysis on wine samples during fermentation
Monitored and adjusted TA levels in white wine production
Trained cellar staff in proper Total Acidity testing procedures and documentation
Typical job title: "Winemakers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Winemakers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you adjust total acidity levels in wine and what factors do you consider?
Expected Answer: A senior winemaker should explain the balance between adding acid or reducing it, considering factors like grape ripeness, wine style, aging potential, and regional preferences. They should mention practical techniques and legal requirements.
Q: How does total acidity impact long-term wine aging and storage?
Expected Answer: Should discuss how proper acid levels protect wine during aging, their role in wine stability, and how they affect the wine's aging potential. Should mention monitoring procedures and adjustment strategies.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What's the relationship between pH and Total Acidity in wine?
Expected Answer: Should explain that these are different but related measurements, how they affect wine taste and stability, and why both need to be monitored during winemaking.
Q: How do you troubleshoot unusual Total Acidity readings?
Expected Answer: Should describe the steps to verify equipment accuracy, proper sampling techniques, and common causes of unusual readings, including how to correct them.
Junior Level Questions
Q: How do you measure Total Acidity in wine?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic laboratory procedure using a titration method, proper sample preparation, and standard safety procedures. Should know normal ranges for different wine types.
Q: Why is measuring Total Acidity important in winemaking?
Expected Answer: Should explain that it affects wine taste, stability, and quality, and mention its role in determining wine ripeness and harvest timing.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic laboratory testing procedures
- Understanding of wine chemistry fundamentals
- Proper sample collection and preparation
- Record keeping and documentation
Mid (2-5 years)
- Troubleshooting analysis problems
- Quality control procedures
- Understanding seasonal variations
- Training others in basic procedures
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced wine chemistry knowledge
- Process optimization
- Method development
- Quality assurance program management
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain basic wine chemistry concepts
- No hands-on laboratory experience
- Lack of attention to detail in measurements
- Poor understanding of wine styles and their typical acid profiles
Related Terms
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