This handmade wooden carrier marked “ENOL” (enology) was used by researchers in the Department of Viticulture and Enology at the University of California at Davis to hold hydrometers that were being used in research and winemaking activities. The wire screen design allowed for washing the hydrometers with a spray of water while they were secured in the carrier.
In a winery, it is important to maintain cleanliness to prevent mold from growing on the equipment. Good practice dictates washing up any spills or residue from the juice after any operation, such as a measurement of a sample. Typically, in a research winery the areas around the small fermenters where measurements are taken would be washed down with warm water along with any equipment used in the operation.