In 2014, Vintuitive Winemaking Tools (formerly Vinnovation LLC) announced its patent-pending LOTUS pumpover head. Manufactured using stainless steel and food-grade polyurethane, the device gently and uniformly distributes juice in tanks of any size without excessive bruising or misting. “Our goal was an even distribution of fluid over the cap of the tanks. The fluid should glide—not splash—off the device,” says Mitchell.
The pair worked with select local winemakers for testing throughout development.
“Alex loaned us a pumpover device for a two-week trial. After the third day, we called and told him to invoice us for it,” says Elena Franceschi, assistant winemaker at Silverado Vineyards.
Most recently, the company introduced its Square Flow Conditioner, which is designed specifically for square fermentation tanks and works in conjunction with existing LOTUS technology. “You only need one part to swap between round or square flow conditioners, so one device can do both,” says Mitchell.
LOTUS products are manufactured by York Machine Works in St. Helena and are sold by York and other select winery equipment retailers, even internationally. The company is currently looking for resellers in most major wine areas of the United States.
