Native Yeast
/NAY-tiv YEEST/Wild yeast found naturally in vineyard or winery.
Full Definition
Native yeast (wild, indigenous, ambient) refers to Saccharomyces and other yeasts naturally present in the vineyard or winery environment. Native yeast fermentations may start slowly, proceed unpredictably, and produce more complex wines with terroir expression. Risk of stuck fermentation is higher than with cultured yeast.