[Vineyard & Winery Elf EN](https://help.vineyardelf.com/index.md) / [WineryElf](https://help.vineyardelf.com/wineryelf.md)

# [Batch Records - Documenting Fermentation](https://help.vineyardelf.com/batch-records-documenting-fermentation.md)

## What are batch records?

A batch record is the official document that tracks a wine's fermentation from the initial must to completion. In most wine-producing countries, keeping this kind of production record is a legal requirement, and it is also the backbone of good cellar management.

## What information does a batch record contain?

### Basic data
- **Batch number** - a unique identifier (e.g. NS/2024/001)
- **Tank number** - where the wine is fermenting
- **Start date** - when fermentation began
- **Vintage** - the year the grapes were harvested
- **Variety** - the grape type (e.g. Solaris, Regent)
- **Wine type** - white, red, rosé

### Volume and parameters
- **Initial volume** - how many litres of must
- **Initial extract** - sugar content (°Bx)
- **Final volume** - after fermentation
- **Lees loss** - how much was left in the sediment

### Additives
Every addition to the batch (yeast, nutrients, sugar, acids) must be documented with:
- The purchase document number
- The name of the additive
- The quantity (kg or litres)

### Fermentation checks
Regular measurements of the wine's parameters:
- Check date
- Alcohol content (%)
- Total acidity
- Volatile acidity
- Actual extract

## How to use it in WineryElf?

1. **New batch record**: Dashboard → "+ New batch record"
2. **Fill in the data**: the form walks you through every required field
3. **Add additives**: as you use them
4. **Log checks**: enter measurements regularly
5. **Export to XLSX**: download a ready-to-print document

## Label and e-label section

In the batch record details you will find a **Label** section with a form for nutritional values (energy, fat and saturated fat, carbohydrates and sugars, protein, salt) and allergens. This data feeds both the printed label and the wine's public e-label, in line with EU Regulation 2021/2117. See the article on wine labels for details.

## Batch record statuses

- 🔴 **Fermentation** - fermentation is active
- 🟡 **Maturing** - the wine is ageing
- 🟢 **Bottled** - the wine is in bottles
- ⚫ **Sold** - the batch has been sold
- ❌ **Cancelled** - the batch failed