Malolactic What?

Often when we discuss wines we mention fermentation and malolactic fermentation. What do these terms mean? Why when buying wine does it matter? For the answer, we offer our version of Summer School...Fermentation is basically an organic transformation. When we talk about fermentation and wine, we are generally discussing the process in which the sugar in the grapes is transformed into alcohol. When the grapes or the grape juice comes into contact with yeast, the yeast causes the fermentation to occur. You may remember we have previously discussed that some winemakers use the wild yeasts that occur naturally on the grapes and in the cellar for fermentation. In other cases, the winemaker carefully selects the yeasts that will be added to the grapes and juice to cause the fermentation.Malolactic fermentation is a different type of fermentation that sometimes occurs when wine is made. It is also referred to as the secondary fermentation. In this case, the malic acid that is found in the grapes is transformed into lactic acid. I know this sounds like a bunch of science... but understanding the result helps describe some of the attributes you may like about a wine. Malic acid is sharp and tart, lactic acid is soft and round. Most red wines go through malolactic fermentation, whereas only some whites do. It is common for Chardonnay to go through malolactic fermentation to obtain that rich, round mouth-feel. Other wines will go through partial malolatic fermentation to keep more crisp acidity, while gaining some of the roundness. If you like the round, creaminess, ask about white wines that go through malolactic fermentation. If you prefer more crisp acidity, ask for wines that have not gone through or only go through partial malolactic fermentation.

Watch for an announcement of a wine paring dinner at Gilmore's restaurant in West Chester, Pa. Peter Gilmore will feature a 5 course dinner and Carol and I will pair and describe the wines with each course. Please contact us at bobv@neconsultants.com to reserve your spot. This unique dinner will quickly sell out.