Racking

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Racking is the process of siphoning the wine or beer off the lees to allow clarification and aid in stabilization. A racking hose or tubing is used and can be attached to a racking cane to make this task easier.

A Racking Hose is a flexible, clear plastic hose, usually 3/8 inch in inner diameter, used to siphon wine from one vessel to another. It is used in both Racking and Bottling operations.

A Racking Cane is a stiff, plastic tube, usually "L"-shaped, that is attached to the Racking Hose to make Racking easier. A protective cap is placed over the lower end of the cane that allows liquid to be drawn into the cane from above rather than below while keeping most large solids out. The cap allows the tip of the cane to be lowered close to the lees without unduly disturbing them. The lower tip of the Racking Cane should initially be held about midway between the surface and the lees and gradually lowered as the volume decreases due to the siphoning.