Ullage

Term from Winemaking industry explained for recruiters

Ullage refers to the empty space between the wine and the top of its container (like a bottle or barrel). When reviewing resumes in the wine industry, this term shows up because managing ullage is crucial for wine quality. Think of it like the air pocket in a bottle - too much can spoil the wine, too little can cause problems during storage. Wine professionals need to monitor and adjust this space regularly to ensure proper aging and storage of wine. When you see this term, it usually indicates someone has hands-on experience with wine storage, aging, and quality control.

Examples in Resumes

Monitored and maintained proper ullage levels in 500+ wine barrels

Conducted monthly ullage checks for premium wine storage facility

Trained staff on proper ullage management techniques for long-term wine aging

Typical job title: "Wine Cellar Workers"

Also try searching for:

Cellar Master Winemaker Cellar Hand Wine Production Specialist Barrel Room Manager Wine Storage Specialist Wine Quality Control Specialist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you manage ullage levels in a large barrel room with different wine varietals?

Expected Answer: A senior professional should explain their systematic approach to monitoring different wines, scheduling of topping up, and how they adjust procedures based on wine type, barrel age, and storage conditions.

Q: What's your approach to training staff on proper ullage management?

Expected Answer: Should discuss creating standard procedures, demonstrating proper techniques, implementing quality control checks, and explaining the importance of proper ullage management to wine quality.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors do you consider when determining proper ullage levels?

Expected Answer: Should mention temperature, humidity, barrel age, wine type, and storage duration as key factors in determining appropriate ullage levels.

Q: How do you document and track ullage adjustments?

Expected Answer: Should describe record-keeping systems, frequency of checks, and how they maintain consistent monitoring across different storage vessels.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is ullage and why is it important?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that ullage is the space between wine and container top, and its importance in preventing oxidation and maintaining wine quality.

Q: What are the basic steps for checking ullage levels?

Expected Answer: Should describe the visual inspection process, basic measurement techniques, and when to alert supervisors about potential issues.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of wine storage
  • Ability to check ullage levels
  • Knowledge of basic wine handling
  • Understanding of cellar hygiene

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Independent ullage management
  • Wine quality monitoring
  • Record keeping and tracking
  • Basic problem identification

Senior (5+ years)

  • Advanced wine aging management
  • Staff training and supervision
  • Quality control program development
  • Complex problem solving

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No hands-on experience with wine storage
  • Lack of understanding about wine oxidation
  • Poor attention to detail in maintenance records
  • No knowledge of basic wine chemistry