This case study explores Peter Wilson’s extensive experience with Flexcube, highlighting the key benefits, challenges faced, and the impact on winemaking practices. Peter’s journey with Flexcube showcases the versatility, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability of the technology, emphasizing its role as a real alternative to traditional barrels in the winemaking industry.

The Stuart Wine Company’s “Whitebox” winery was constructed in 2004, crushing 1,500 tones in the first vintage.  Peter Wilson decided on the moniker Whitebox because the vineyard is sanctuary to one of the largest remnant stands of White Box eucalypts. Ecologically responsible vineyard management and a love of nature remain at the heart of Whitebox viticulture.

Key Benefits

    Cost effective

    Versatile

    Sustainable and locally made

    Easy to use, move around

    Space saving and stackable

An interview with Peter Wilson and Flexcube

Today, we are speaking with Peter Wilson, a seasoned winemaker, about his journey with Flexcube, the leading provider of new technology winemaking solutions.

Peter Wilson: 13 years ago, I came across Flexcube, particularly the Mark 1 Cube, and was initially attracted to its use for transport and maturation. Over the years, I’ve explored various aspects of winemaking with Flexcubes, including fermentation and extended cap maceration.

What are the key benefits to you of using Flexcubes in your winemaking process?

Peter Wilson: One of the key benefits is the Flexcube’s versatility. We have experimented a lot with extended cap maceration and the ability to rotate and immerse the cap, along with modifying the tannins for complexity, is a real benefit. We also use the cubes for fermentation and maturation. Whether for larger volumes or smaller batches, Flexcube has proven its versatility across all tiers and varietals, including sparklings. We do our larger volumes including the “White box” which is a regional blend, in the Flexcubes which enables us to combine oak styles, complexity, texture and blend different styles seamlessly. What sets Flexcube apart is the consistent product it delivers, compared to the enormous variation in traditional barrels.

How do you compare the wines made in Flexcubes with those made in traditional barrels?

Peter Wilson: The variation in wooden barrels is enormous. Flexcubes, on the other hand, offer a regular, consistent, end product. This consistency allows us to finesse the final result. I believe wines made in Flexcubes, even without oak, surpass those made in old barrels due to the maturation process the cubes provide. The Cube’s ability to add permeability and enable smaller batches has been crucial. I use Flexcube oak to enhance the maturation.

Initially were there any challenges or scepticism from your winemaking team?

Peter Wilson:There were sceptics among my team initially. However, once they saw the results from Flexcubes, they were blown away. The key, as I’ve found over the years, is the importance of education on how to use the cubes properly. These are simple and easy to use, but instruction on handling, topping up, and testing is crucial to maintaining end quality.

How has the handling and maintenance of Flexcubes compared to traditional barrels?

Peter Wilson: Handling Flexcubes is much simpler and much less labour intensive than barrels. While barrels require topping up every few weeks, Flexcubes only need topping up twice a year. The consistency, affordability, and sustainability of Flexcubes has truly paid off. They have proven to be a real cost-effective alternative to barrels, providing versatility for all aspects of winemaking.

How has the sustainability aspect played a role in your decision to use Flexcubes?

Peter Wilson: Sustainability is crucial for us. Being made in Australia, Flexcubes are not only more sustainably produced than barrels, but they also contribute to our efforts to achieve a green tick as winemakers. The minimal intervention required, and overall sustainability align with our values.

Can you share your experience with the latest Mark 3 Flexcube and how it compares to previous models?

Peter Wilson: We love it. Its sturdy and robust and overall a quality finish. Its very easy to use and move around now that it is pallet jackable as well as fork liftable. It has a fantastic new lid, overflow bottle, and a sturdy girdle base which gives it added protection in the cellar.