Definition of Maceration in wine
Prolonged contact and exchange between the juice and the grape solids, especially the skin. Not to be confused with the time of fermentation, which follows maceration. The juice becomes loaded with colouring matter and tannins, and acquires aromas. For a rosé, the maceration is short so that the colour does not "rise" too much. For white wines too, a "pellicular maceration" can be practised, which allows the wine to acquire more fat.