Describe the riddling process using a relevant example. (12 marks)

The riddling process is a crucial step in the traditional method of producing sparkling wines, such as Champagne. Its purpose is to gradually move the spent yeast sediment (lees) that forms after secondary fermentation into the neck of the bottle, making it easier to remove.

Here's how the riddling process works:

• Placement: Bottles are initially placed horizontally in special A-frame racks called pupitres (or in large, automated gyropalettes).
• Rotation and Inclination: Over several weeks, the bottles are systematically rotated a small amount (e.g., one-eighth of a turn) each day. Simultaneously, their angle is gradually increased, moving them from horizontal to a nearly vertical, inverted position.
• Sediment Collection: This combination of rotation and increasing inclination causes the yeast sediment to slowly slide down the inside of the bottle and collect in the plastic insert (bidule) or crown cap in the bottle's neck.
• Completion: Once all the sediment has settled into the neck, the bottles are ready for the next stage, disgorgement, where the frozen plug of sediment is removed.

Example: In the production of Champagne, after the secondary fermentation in the bottle, the wine is cloudy due to yeast cells. Riddling ensures these cells are collected in the neck, allowing for their removal and resulting in a clear, brilliant sparkling wine.