Malolactic Conversion: Winemaker's Minute (Episode #15)
Malolactic conversion transforms sharp malic acids into softer lactic acids. What wines, and wine styles employ this "secondary fermentation"?
Malolactic conversion, also referred to as secondary fermentation, uses bacteria to transform muscular malic acids (think green apple) into smoother tasting lactic acids (think milk). Many white wines undergo a partial malolactic conversion, and pretty much every red wine goes through this process. What does it mean to the style of the finished wines, and how do you manipulate the level of malolactic conversion? Crushpad Chief Winemaker, Michael Zitzlaff fills us in.
Malolactic conversion, also referred to as secondary fermentation, uses bacteria to transform muscular malic acids (think green apple) into smoother tasting lactic acids (think milk). Many white wines undergo a partial malolactic conversion, and pretty much every red wine goes through this process. What does it mean to the style of the finished wines, and how do you manipulate the level of malolactic conversion? Crushpad Chief Winemaker, Michael Zitzlaff fills us in.
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