Malic Acid

/MAL-ik AS-id/
🍷Winemaking👃Tasting

A tart acid in grapes, converted to lactic acid during ML.

Full Definition

Malic acid is one of the two main grape acids (with tartaric), responsible for sharp, green apple-like acidity. It decreases as grapes ripen. Malolactic fermentation converts malic to softer lactic acid, reducing tartness. Winemakers may encourage or prevent ML depending on desired style - blocking it preserves freshness in aromatic whites.

Related Terms

malolactic fermentationtartaric acidacidity

See Also

crisplactic acid
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