Aerobic
/air-OH-bik/Process requiring oxygen, opposite of anaerobic.
Full Definition
Aerobic describes processes requiring oxygen. Acetobacter (vinegar bacteria) is aerobic and needs oxygen to convert alcohol to acetic acid. Oxidative winemaking deliberately exposes wine to air. Contrast with anaerobic fermentation, where yeast works without oxygen. Understanding aerobic vs anaerobic is key to winemaking decisions.