FLEXTANK - Problem Free Storage with Flextanks

Problem-Free Storage with Flextanks

Flextank Tanks: Modern Solutions for Wine Aging

Flextank tanks take wine aging to the next level with modern winemaking technology. These special polyethylene-based tanks have oxygen-permeable properties that ensure the wine matures naturally while preserving its purity and character.

Innovation in Winemaking

Thanks to rotational molding technology, Flextank tanks are highly durable and hygienic. Their patented clamped sealing system makes them easy and safe to use. The tanks’ oxygen permeability precisely regulates the aging process, allowing winemakers to achieve premium quality wines.

The Experience of Oak Aging

Aging wine in Flextank tanks pairs exceptionally well with Pronektar oak products, which add unique aromas and depth to wines. Oak chips, cubes, or staves can be added directly to the wine, enhancing its character in a controlled manner. For more details on Pronektar products, read our expert article here.

Sustainability and Efficiency

Flextank tanks not only enhance wine quality but also offer a cost-effective and sustainable solution. They are lightweight, durable, and have a long lifespan, reducing waste production. Their polyethylene material is recyclable, contributing to sustainable winemaking.

Why Choose Flextank Tanks?

1. An Alternative to Oak Barrels

Traditional oak barrels have long been used for aging wine, but they come with several drawbacks:

• Large storage space & difficult handling – Barrels take up significant space, which can be a problem for small wineries. Their cleaning and handling also require great effort.
• Sanitation & risk of contamination – Thoroughly cleaning the inside of barrels is difficult, increasing the risk of contamination.
• Inconsistent oxygen permeability – Oxygen diffusion varies from barrel to barrel.
• Limited reuse – A barrel used for aging red wine cannot be reused for white wine.

Flextank tanks address all these issues. Their innovative polyethylene material provides precise, consistent micro-oxidation while being easy to clean and reusable for aging white, red, and rosé wines. Additionally, they are much easier to transport.

2. Advantages Over Stainless Steel Tanks

While stainless steel tanks are completely sealed and allow minimal oxygen transmission, this can hinder wine aging. Flextank tanks, with their controlled micro-oxidation, promote a more natural development of the wine, leading to more complex and rich aromas.

3. Superior to Traditional Plastic Tanks

Traditional plastic tanks fall into two extremes: they either allow too little oxygen, preventing proper aging, or too much, causing oxidation and quality deterioration. In contrast, Flextank tanks ensure regulated oxygen permeability tailored to the winemaker’s needs.

Different Flextank Models for Various Needs

Flextank offers a wide range of sizes and designs to suit all wineries.

Recommended models for smaller batch aging and fermentation:

• Eco 57 L, 114 L, 265 L

  • Capacity: 57 L, 114 L, or 265 L
  • Lid: Smaller, 18 cm sealing lid
  • Use: Ideal for fermenting white and rosé wines or aging small batches
  • Benefit: Easy to handle, perfect for small volumes

• Dexter 189 L, 303 L

  • Capacity: 189 L or 303 L
  • Lid: Larger, 42 cm clamped sealing lid
  • Use: For skin-contact fermentation (orange and red wines) or aging
  • Benefit: Versatile use for small and medium wineries

Space-Saving Solutions for Larger Batches

• Eco 757 L, 1135 L

  • Capacity: 757 L or 1135 L
  • Lid: Smaller, 18 cm sealing lid
  • Use: Fermenting or aging white and rosé wines
  • Benefit: Narrow-diameter, space-efficient design

• Dexter 757 L

  • Capacity: 757 L
  • Lid: Larger, 42 cm clamped sealing lid
  • Use: For skin-contact fermentation (orange and red wines) or aging
  • Benefit: Upright cylindrical tank with a practical design

• Apollo 875 L

  • Capacity: 875 L
  • Lid: Larger, 42 cm clamped sealing lid
  • Use: Skin-contact fermentation (orange and red wines), aging, and direct press loading
  • Benefit: Unique egg-shaped design promotes even oxidation and aging

• Stacker 908 L, 1135 L

  • Capacity: 908 L or 1135 L
  • Lid: Larger, 42 cm clamped sealing lid
  • Use: Skin-contact fermentation (orange and red wines) or aging
  • Benefit: Stackable design for maximum space efficiency

Oak-Aged Wine with Full Control

For optimal aging, we recommend using Pronektar oak products with Flextank tanks. Oak chips, cubes, and staves can be precisely dosed, allowing winemakers full control over the wine’s flavor profile. For more information, read our Pronektar expert article.

Real-Life Examples

Small Family Winery Experience

Using a 303-liter Dexter tank, a winery was able to ferment and age both red and white wines in the same tank twice a year. The consistent micro-oxidation resulted in a more complex flavor profile while simplifying cleaning.

Large-Scale Wineries

By switching to Stacker 1135 L tanks, a major winery significantly saved space while reducing costs compared to oak barrel replacements.

The Science Behind Flextank

Since 2006, Flextank tanks have been manufactured and sold in the United States, becoming a leader in modern wine and beverage production. Award-winning wines, ciders, and meads are produced in Flextank tanks worldwide.

Practical Benefits

• Space efficiency: 2 STACKER tanks can replace 10 oak barrels
• Hygienic and easy to clean
• Long lifespan & cost-effectiveness: Nearly 90% lower maintenance costs compared to barrel aging
• Oxygen permeability equivalent to oak barrels
• No natural evaporation loss
• Preserves volatile aromatic compounds for a more complex flavor profile
• FDA & European food safety-compliant polyethylene material
• Compatible with all available oak aging products

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why is the opening 48 cm?

Flextank’s patented clamped sealing system requires no special tools or great force to open and close. This system minimizes trapped air, making the tanks easier to clean and more hygienic.

How are Flextank tanks made?

Each Flextank tank is rotationally molded from specially developed polyethylene granules that undergo rigorous testing. The tank’s joints are formed during the molding process, ensuring that metal fittings remain securely in place.

How does oxygen pass through the tank?

Polyethylene is naturally oxygen-permeable, allowing oxygen to pass through the tank walls due to pressure differences. The wine absorbs and utilizes this oxygen in complex chemical reactions.

Are all polyethylene tanks suitable for winemaking?

Not all polyethylene tanks are designed with controlled oxygen permeability like Flextank tanks. Flextank ensures quality control in materials, wall thickness, and design to make them ideal for wineries.

How does oxygen permeability compare to oak barrels?

Maturation tanks are designed to match the oxygen permeability of an average oak barrel stored at 13°C. Heavier tanks have thicker walls, providing permeability similar to neutral barrels.

Do Flextank tanks stain the wine?

Flextank tanks are made from FDA- and EU-compliant food-grade polyethylene, which does not stain wine. Thousands of wineries worldwide use them without experiencing discoloration.

Can they be used for white wines?

Originally designed for red wines, Flextank tanks are increasingly used for white wine production. Both standard and thicker-walled versions are suitable.

Where are Flextank tanks manufactured?

All Flextank tanks are produced in Vancouver, Washington, and distributed in Europe by Kerttrade Italtechnológia Kft.