October 12, 2015
TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL MALOLACTIC FERMENTATION (MLF)The assessment of malolactic fermentation depends on wine conditions, the choice of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and the preparation of the inoculum.
Wine conditions: Principal factors influencing growth, viability and activity of LAB
|
Factor |
Tolerance Limits (general) |
Optimal Range |
|
Alcohol (%v/v) |
15 |
<13 |
|
pH |
<3.1 |
>3.4 |
|
FSO2 (mg/L) |
15 |
<8 |
|
TSO2 (mg/L) |
60 |
<30 |
|
Temperature |
<54°F (12°C) or >82°F (28°C) |
65-72°F (15-30°C) |
Other parameters can impact MLF such as: vineyard sprays, micro-organisms (competition for nutrients, production of SO2 and/or production of toxic compounds for bacteria), ease of alcoholic fermentation or even tannin content of the wine.
Choice of Lactic Acid Bacteria
Inoculation with a selected LAB reduces the potential of spoilage by other micro-organism thus ensuring the rapid onset of MLF, and better control over the production of aromatic compounds and wine mouthfeel.
Want to know which bacteria will complete your MLF? The Quick ML Activity Test, offered by Enartis Vinquiry, rates wines based on fermentation conditions, and recommends the appropriate bacteria strain and, if needed, adjustments in order to avoid a stuck fermentation.
|
Enartis Strains |
MCW |
ML Silver |
ML One |
|
Species |
Oenococcus oeni |
||
|
pH tolerance |
3.1 |
3.1 |
3.2 |
|
TSO2 resistance (mg/L) |
30 |
45 |
40 |
|
FSO2 resistance (mg/L) |
- |
10 |
10 |
|
Alcohol tolerance (%v/v) |
>15 |
>15 |
14 |
|
Conversion Speed |
Moderate/High |
High |
Moderate |
Bacteria preparation and nutrition
As with any organism, bacteria need to eat in order to survive, develop and be active. The bacteria need acclimation before going into the hostile environment of wine. Enartis Nutriferm Osmobacti is a nutrient and regulator of osmotic pressure that improves the survival rate of bacteria during rehydration and activates their metabolism. Enartis Nutriferm ML provides essential nutrients specific for bacteria, and polysaccharides and cellulose to absorb compounds that may inhibit cell growth. It helps bacteria colonize wine over natural flora and to complete MLF.
Please call (707) 838-6312 for more information.
