What is the purpose of using "flash detente" in winemaking?

The purpose of using "flash detente" in winemaking is to rapidly heat and cool grape must to extract color and flavor. This process involves briefly heating the grape must to a high temperature, which can help in the extraction of color and flavor compounds from the skins of red grapes, especially. By quickly cooling the must afterward, the winemaker can preserve the delicate aromas and other qualities that might be lost with prolonged exposure to high temperatures.

This technique is particularly beneficial in producing vibrant and expressive wines, improving the overall quality by ensuring that the extraction process is efficient and that the resulting wine has a rich flavor profile. The rapid temperature changes also help to minimize oxidation and can reduce the risk of undesirable microbial activity.