Fermentation & Cellar - Common Questions
Please browse this selection of our most commonly-asked questions regarding the application of products in our Fermentation & Cellar range.
Yeast
How much yeast should I use to ferment wine?
For standard primary fermentation inoculation, we recommend an addition rate of 2 lb/1000 gal (25 g/hL) of total juice to achieve a stable and effective population. For high Brix (greater than 25 °B) juices, increase the inoculation rate to 2.8 lb/1000 gal (35 g/hL). To restart a stuck/sluggish fermentation, refer to Scott Labs Recommended Method to Restart Stuck Fermentations.
How do I rehydrate yeast?
Please refer to the yeast rehydration guides below:
Easy Steps for Optimal Yeast Rehydration of Lallemand Yeast
Easy Steps for Optimal Yeast Rehydration of Anchor Yeast
Easy Steps for Optimal Yeast Rehydration of Lallemand Yeast
Easy Steps for Optimal Yeast Rehydration of Anchor Yeast
How do I restart a stuck fermentation?
To restart a stuck/sluggish fermentation, please refer to Scott Labs Recommended Method to Restart Stuck Fermentations
What yeast should I use for a particular wine?
Select yeast based on the grape and style of wine you would like to create. You should also consider your fermentation conditions (e.g. temperature, high BRIX, etc.) and must nutrient levels (YANC). Select the best strain that can tolerate and thrive in your must/juice condition and still deliver the sensory characteristics you desire. For more information about our available strains, please refer to our yeast section.
What is the best yeast to use for cider or fruit wines?
The top yeast strains for fruit wine fermentation are K1 (V1116), EC1118, DV10, 71B, D47, M2, VIN 13, QA23 R2, and W15. For cider fermentation, the top strains are DV10, EC1118, K1 (V1116), M2, Opale, QA23, R2, and VIN 13.
I have high levels of malic acid in my juice. What yeast strain can I use to help lower the acid level?
Some yeast strains are able to metabolize malic acid at greater rates than others. VRB and 71B are yeast strains that have been observed to reduce malic levels.
What is a yeast killer factor?
Killer yeast contains a toxin in their cell wall structure that allows them to kill toxin sensitive foreign yeast cells. Most killer strains of S. Cerevisiae have good fermentation kinetics, and therefore have a greater chance of dominating the fermentation. If indigenous yeast is perceived as a potential problem, strains with this factor may be beneficial. Our various yeast strains can exhibit, be sensitive to, or have a neutral reaction to this factor.
What is the temperature range of yeast?
Each yeast strain has a temperature range in which it is most active or sensitive. For specific yeast temperature requirements, please refer to the individual product descriptions.
I have a stuck fermentation and the fructose faction is higher than the glucose. Which yeast should I use to restart my fermentation?
A good yeast selection for a wine with a high fructose fraction is ICV-KI (V1116). ICV-K1 is fructophilic and a vigorous fermenter. This strain exhibits a killer factor that is helpful when indigenous yeast is still present.
My first attempt to restart a stuck fermentation failed. Should I try again with the same yeast strain?
The first yeast strain used may not have acclimated to a difficult condition of the wine or was inoculated with a low population. It is often better to chose a strain better adapted for high alcohol, high SO2, or a competitive atmosphere. Using the same strain may or may not work the second time. Make sure to carefully follow a recommended restart protocol.
Can I open and partially use an active-dried yeast culture and reuse the balance at a later date?
A dried yeast culture will begin to absorb moisture as soon as it is opened. This can trigger the yeast to reactivate. If no must or nutrients are available, the yeast dies or becomes weakened. An open container also becomes a rich media for possible microbiological growth. It is recommended to close the container tightly immediately after opening. The balance should be used within a short period of time (one to two weeks).
How should I store my yeast?
Store in a cool, dry environment.
How should I store my encapsulated yeast?
Store at 4°C (refrigerator). Do not freeze.
What is the shelf life of encapsulated yeast?
At optimal conditions, the shelf life is one year for ProRestart and six months for ProDessert, ProElif, and ProMalic.
What should I do if my mesh bag rips and the beads escape?
Put the remaining beads in an intact bag. If the loss of beads is extreme, turn over the tank twice a day to circulate the beads. Also, filter after the fermentation as you would in a standard fermentation.
What are the tolerances of prorestart?
A maximum final alcohol tolerance of 15.5 % and a free SO2 < 20 mg/L. Previous additions of yeast hulls
(25-30 g/hL) may considerably improve the efficiency of ProRestart due to the absorption of toxinsn.
(25-30 g/hL) may considerably improve the efficiency of ProRestart due to the absorption of toxinsn.
What if my wine is stuck and only contains Fructose. Should I use ProRestart or a traditional restart method?
ProRestart has been proven to work in high fructose environments. However, more fructophilic (fructose loving) standard yeast strains, such as ICV-K1 (V1116), may be preferred.
Will the alginate encapsulation hurt my wine in any way?
The alginate should not impart any characteristic to the wine.
Should I use ProDessert to conduct a secondary fermentation in the bottle?
No. ProDessert is not designed to withstand the more difficult conditions of a secondary fermentation. ProElif was developed for that purpose.
How do I suspend my tank bags?
Tank bags should be filled with no more than 5 kg of encapsulated yeast. Tie the bags to the strings attached to the top of the tank and anchor the bag with a weight, or ballast, to prevent the bag from floating.
How should I fill my barrel bags?
The recommended dosage per barrel is 164 g ProRestart, 164 g ProMalic, and 218 g ProDessert. Each dose should be divided in half and placed into two barrel bags. Place the filled and re-hydrated bags through the barrel bunghole and attach them to the top of the barrel. Using a ballast is not necessary during this process.
Nutrients
What is YAN?
YAN stands for Yeast Assimilable Nitrogen. It is the sum of assimilable nitrogen from ammonium ions and the assimilable Free Amino Nitrogen (FAN) present in the juice. The recommended levels of YAN range from 250 ppm to 350 ppm or higher depending on the initial Brix level.
Why should I use Go-Ferm?
Go-Ferm immediately gives your desired yeast a leg up over other organisms during fermentation. Go-Ferm is added to the rehydration water of the selected, active dried yeast. A "sponge effect" allows the yeast to soak up the nutrients as they soak up the water. Micronutrients are more bioavailable to the yeast, which encourages a strong and smooth fermentation.
When should I add Go-Ferm? How much should I use?
Go-Ferm should be added in the rehydration water of the active dried yeast prior to the yeast addition itself. The recommended dose is to add 2.5 lb of Go-Ferm/1000 gal (of total juice/wine) into twenty times its weight of clean 43°C(110°F) water. Then stir the GoFerm to dissolve. For optimal performance, maintain a ratio of 1 part yeast to one and one fourth part Go-Ferm.
When should I add Fermaid K? How much should I use?
Fermaid K is best added at one third of sugar depletion at a rate of 2 lb/1000 gal. Fermaid K should be hydrated before adding it to an active fermentation in order to avoid CO2 release and an overflow of tanks or barrels.
When should I use Diammonium Phosphate(DAP)? When should I add it?
DAP should be used when YANC is below 125 mg N/L. Fermaid K contains some DAP, but for very low Nitrogen content must, DAP is recommended in order to bring YANC to above 150 mg N/L. Each 2 lb/1000 gal (25 g/hL) addition yields 50 mg N/L of inorganic (ammonium) nitrogen.
How do I test for nitrogen levels in my juice/must?
Nitrogen levels can be tested through formol titration or the NOPA method. Inorganic nitrogen can be determined by using an ammonia probe.
I have an organic wine program. Which yeast nutrients can I use?
Some nutrients do not conform to organic qualifications while others are tailored for this purpose. For organic wine, we suggest using Go-Ferm, Go-Ferm Protect, Fermaid O, or SIY 2133 (Fermaid 2133).
When should I use yeast hulls?
Use yeast hulls to fine out toxins in the case of sluggish/stuck fermentation to increase the surface area of clarified juice and to supplement survival factors such as sterols.
Which nutrients are considered Kosher?
The only nutrient that conforms and is documented as Kosher is Fermaid K (Kosher).
How much nutritional value does Opti-RED add to the juice/must?
Opti-RED is basically a highly specific form of autolyzed yeast. There are some benefits derived from this organic nitrogen source, but the use of Opti-RED should not preclude the use of other nutrients like Fermaid K, Go-Ferm, or Go-Ferm Protect.
Why are pantothenate and magnesium sulfate important to yeast cells?
Pantothenate helps keep open important metabolic pathways that dramatically reduce the production of H2S. Magnesium improves yeast alcohol tolerance.
Do different yeast strains require more nutrients than others do?
Yes. Each strain has distinct fermentation kinetics. One strain may require less of one nutrient compared to another strain. Do your research. See the individual product descriptions to help determine your yeasts' specific needs
Is nutrient addition timing important? Why?
Yes. Yeast metabolizes nutrients at different times throughout fermentation. Dosing nutrients at the most optimal moments can enhance yeast performance. As fermentation progresses and the ethanol level rises, yeast becomes less and less able to assimilate nutrients. For this reason, each nutrient has been created for specific addition times. For example, GoFerm has been designed to add during rehydration. Other nutrients like Fermaid K are added at one third sugar depletion and never into the rehydration water.
Tannins
When is the best time to add tannins? How do I add them?
Tannins are best added early in the winemaking process. In red wine, during the fermentation stage, an addition integrates tannin into the wine, offering the greatest opportunity for color stability and increased middle palate structure. They can be added at the crusher or to the tank during the first pump-over, depending on the grape quality (rotten vs. sound). Additional tannin can be added with each pump-over. If adding tannins to a white wine, add them directly to the grapes at the crusher or to the tank during a tank mixing.
I am using tannin and enzymes. Will SO2 interfere with my additions?
Using all three products together is fine, but timing is important! High SO2 content can inhibit enzyme activity. Do not add SO2 and enzymes at the same time. It is okay to add enzymes after the SO2 is adequately dispersed or to add SO2 after the enzymes are adequately dispersed. Follow this process with a tannin addition six to eight hours later. When enzymes are not being used, add SO2 first, allow SO2 to disperse, then follow with the tannin addition.
Can I use tannins on white juice and wine?
Yes, a tannin addition in white juice may be beneficial to remove off-aromas, improve clarification, inhibit laccase activity from Botrytis or rot, or serve as an anti-oxidant. We recommend using either Uva’Tan, Uva’Tan Soft, FT Blanc, or FT Blanc Soft. Tannins can also be added later to wine to improve mid-palate structure or softness.
Why should I use tannins on my “premium” red grapes?
Tannins can be used to protect the color and phenolic structure of your wines. For the easiest and most efficient integration of tannins, add FT Rouge or FT Rouge Soft at the crusher. If needed, an addition of Uva’Tan, Uva’Tan Soft, or Tannin Estate, prior to aging, can help reinforce phenolic balance. During long maturation in barrels, Tannin Estate will help prevent excessive oxidation that can result in loss of structure and freshness. For improved SO2 management, add small amounts of Tannin Estate (5-7.5 g/ hL) during each racking.
Will tannin additions increase color in low color grape varieties?
Tannins do not add color to the must of low color grapes. Recent research indicates that early addition of tannins, such as FT Rouge, allows them to bind up available proteins. This preserves the grapes’ own natural tannins to be available to bind with the grapes’ anthocyanins, thereby providing an increased color stability.
Why not add oak chips? Aren’t they a source of inexpensive tannin?
Oak chips are a cheap source of ellagic (wood) tannin. Though they may help to mask flavors, provide some oxidative protection, and leave an oak finish, they WILL NOT improve the mid-palate structure. By contrast, the combination of wood and proanthocyanidic tannins in FT Rouge or FT Rouge Soft will help improve structure and color stability.
What if I did not add enough tannin during the primary fermentation?
If more tannin structure and flavor is desired post-fermentation, make additions with Tannin Complex or Tannin Estate. Additions are best before barrel aging when tannins can be incorporated into the wine and oxidation and polymerization are slow. Tannin Refresh, Tannin Riche and Tannin Riche Extra are the best tannins to use prior to bottling (three to six weeks) when a bit of oak influence is desired. Any of these tannins can be used throughout winemaking, depending on the desired effect. Bench trials are required to determine the best tannin for a particular wine or style.
Will adding tannins inhibit barrel aging?
Tannins protect wine from oxidation during barrel aging. The wood tannins extracted from a new barrel protect the wine from over-oxidation during the slow process needed for tannin polymerization and wine development. When using old barrels, indigenous tannin may be completely leached out. A small tannin addition of 5-10 g/hL will act as an anti-oxidant and help protect the wine. Attaining a good phenolic profile will slow the maturation process and still protect the wine.
Can tannins help remove undesirable astringency or bitterness?
Yes. Over-astringency is caused by an imbalance of tannin molecules or by insufficiently bound tannin complexes. By adding a more refined, highly polymerized tannin to the wine, the imbalance can be corrected and the perception of astringency or bitterness is reduced. Frequently, this improves the perception of fruit.
What if I only want to use pure grape tannin in my wine?
Uva’Tan (tannins from grape skins and seeds) and Uva’Tan Soft (tannins from grape skins only) are comprised of 100% grape tannin. All other tannins are sourced from a combination of grapes, exotic woods, oak, or chestnut.
Malolactic Bacteria
What is the difference between direct inoculation, quick build-up and standard cultures?
Direct inoculation cultures can be directly added to wine after being rehydrated. Quick build-up cultures require a simple twelve or twenty-four hour rehydration step using an acclimated culture of Oenococcus oeni and an energizer/activator (included in kits). Standard cultures must go through a build-up protocol prior to inoculation of the wine. The standard build-up process can take from five to twenty days to prepare.
When should I inoculate with ML?
ML should be inoculated at the end of primary fermentation. This helps avoid competition with the yeast that can lead to stuck fermentations. Bacteria can also produce large quantities of volatile acidity (VA) while fermentable sugars are present.
What are favorable or harsh conditions for ML?
An optimum environment for malolactic bacteria includes a temperature between 20-25°C (68-77°F), alcohol below 13% (v/v), total SO2 below 25 ppm, pH above 3.4, little or no oxygen, low levels of short and medium chained fatty acids, low levels of organic acids, and low levels of polyphenols.
Should I use malolactic nutrients?
If your wine is bordering the optimal limits for the bacteria environment, nutrients may be desired. Malolactic rehydration nutrients like Acti-ML can provide an increased surface area to keep bacteria in suspension and can help strengthen the bacteria growth under difficult conditions. Other nutrients like Opti'Malo Plus can be useful to create an environment that promotes clean and quick MLF.
Should I inoculate if my VA is creeping?
If your VA is creeping, you may already have lactic acid bacteria (LAB) present in your wine. Before inoculating, first control the VA problem by assessing contamination and treating the area with lysozyme, SO2, or whatever is appropriate for the situation.
How can I tell if my ML culture is healthy?
Air traps can be used to see if metabolism is occurring in the wine. Also, paper chromatography can be used to monitor the production and reduction of lactic and malic acids. Another method is to listen for the small bubble "spritzing" usually found in these fermentations.
How can I prevent, stop or allow for a partial ML fermentation?
Traditionally, SO2 has been used to control the rate and occurrence of MLF, however lysozyme can be used to effectively control the aspects of MLF and reduce the total amount of SO2 needed. Ultimately, sterile filtration is the best way to ensure complete removal of malolactic bacteria.
Can I open and partially use a direct inoculation culture and reuse the balance at a later date?
A bacteria culture will retain some of its viability even after being opened. Once opened, however, the bacteria media will become susceptible to contamination. Exposure to moisture in the air can encourage the bacteria to start growing in the package, thus reducing viability significantly.
How should my cultures be stored?
For short periods of time, bacteria can be stored in the refrigerator at 40°F, but for longer viability, store in a freezer below 32°F. Be sure to let the bacteria sit at room temperature before beginning rehydration.
What is the shelf life of ML cultures?
Cultures are marked with production dates and expected viability under different temperatures. (twelve months at 40°F and eighteen months at 0°F.)
What is that "buttery" character?
Diacetyl is the chemical responsible for the buttery character found in white wines that undergo MLF. Diacetyl is formed as a by-product of the catabolism of pyruvate, which is often derived after MLF from citric acid sources. Citrate and oxygen concentration will increase diacetyl levels, while living yeast cells and SO2 levels in the wine will reduce concentrations. The ML strain used will also have an effect based on its catabolism of citric acid. Thus, there are multiple factors to think about when addressing the "butter issue". The initial state of the wine, winemaking method (for example sur lies), and choice of bacteria strain all must be considered.
Microbial Control
Inodose
Can I use a partial bag of Inodose Granules?
No, use the entire packet for a single dose of SO2. The granules range in size and there may not be an even distribution or correct dose if a partial packet is used.
Can I break the Inodose Tablets in half to deliver a smaller dose?
No, do not break the tablets for smaller dose additions. The combination of potassium metabisulfite and potassium bicarbonate may not be evenly distributed in the tablet. The tablets are available in two sizes to help give dosing choices.
Lysozyme
What is Lyso-Easy?
Lyso-Easy is a ready-to-use solution of lysozyme (22%w/v). It contains no preservatives and can last for eighteen months or longer when refrigerated. Lyso-Easy should be used quickly after opening.
Can I use lysozyme to replace sulfur dioxide?
Lysozyme cannot completely replace the use of SO2 because lysozyme is not an anti-oxidant.
Is lysozyme approved for use in products labeled “Organic”or “Made with Organic Grapes”?
Yes! Egg white lysozyme, under 7 CFR pt. 205.605a, can now be used as an ingredient in wines labeled “Organic” or “Made with Organic Grapes.”
How can I tell if the lysozyme is working? Can I look under the microscope?
The only way to be sure if lysozyme is working is to culture for bacteria before and after addition. While this can be time consuming, it is the only way to be certain that you have accomplished what you intended. Even experts have difficulty discerning a live bacteria cell from a dead bacteria cell upon microscopic examination. Methods of detecting bacteria based on genetic analysis, such as ETS Lab’s Scorpions®* analysis, can also be used. *ETS has developed Scorpions probes with DxS Ltd. (UK) and has exclusive worldwide rights for all wine applications.
How long does it take for lysozyme to work?
The rate of activity depends on many factors including temperature, pH, bacterial load, bacterial resistance, and the specific matrix of any given wine. Even though lysozyme starts to work immediately, it doesn’t necessarily kill all the bacteria immediately. If
lysozyme-treated wine samples are plated too quickly after treatment, then bacteria may recover and produce a false-positive. To ensure accurate results, wait one week before culturing for microbes.
lysozyme-treated wine samples are plated too quickly after treatment, then bacteria may recover and produce a false-positive. To ensure accurate results, wait one week before culturing for microbes.
How is lysozyme added?
Lysovin must be properly rehydrated before adding it to must, juice, or wine. You can find the rehydration procedure here. An even distribution of rehydrated lysozyme is a key factor in obtaining maximum efficiency. Lyso-Easy is ready-to-use and no preparation is needed.
I do not want to add any excess water to my wine. Can I use less water than is recommended?
You will not decrease the effectiveness of Lysovin by dissolving it in more or less water. However, the maximum solubility of lysozyme in water is 22% (w/v). If less water is used, it will be harder for the dry lysozyme to go into solution.
Can lysozyme be added at the same time as SO2?
No. SO2 may be added before or after the lysozyme addition. Make sure whichever product is added first is evenly dispersed before the other product is added.
Is lysozyme effective against all lactic acid bacteria?
No. Some lactic strains show resistance to lysozyme. Bench-top trials MUST be performed to accurately determine the effectiveness and correct addition rate of lysozyme for your wine.
If I treat my wine with lysozyme is it still possible to complete MLF?
Yes. After lysozyme is added to the juice or must, there is an eventual decrease in activity. In red wines, lysozyme reacts with the tannins and will precipitate in the lees. To initiate MLF in reds, it is important to remove these lees. In white wines, lysozyme generally needs to be removed by fining (bentonite) before MLF inoculation. It may be necessary to wait a minimum of a few hours to overnight for the fining reaction to occur. If difficulties occur, lysozyme tolerant MLF strains including MBR 31, MBR VP41, or a standard culture like MT01 could also be used.
How long does lysozyme remain in wine?
The amount of residual lysozyme activity depends on the type of wine, when the lysozyme was added, bacterial population, and the addition rate. The main contributors to a loss of activity are polyphenols. Red wines retain less lysozyme than white wines.
How soon after a lysozyme addition can I bottle?
Wait at least one week, even if you have diligently completed your lab trials. Lysozyme is a protein and may produce lees (especially in reds) and affect the protein stability in whites. It is not recommended to bottle white wines that contain residual lysozyme.
How do I remove lysozyme from my wine? Which fining agents react with lysozyme?
Bentonite will bind with and inactivate lysozyme. Carbon, silica sol, oak chips, and tannin can also bind and precipitate lysozyme, resulting in decreased inactivity. In general, the addition of 0.25-2.0 lb/1000 gal bentonite will bind and precipitate any residual lysozyme. Lysozyme cannot be removed by filtration.
Can I use lysozyme with bentonite?
Bentonite binds and precipitates enzymes. Do not use bentonite and lysozyme simultaneously. If you have already added bentonite, wait for it to settle out, then rack off the lees before adding lysozyme. If you have already added lysozyme, do not add bentonite for at least one week. This will allow time for lysozyme to kill the bacteria. Remember that you may not have any residual lysozyme activity after a bentonite addition.
Lysozyme is a protein. Will it affect protein stability?
Yes. White wines are especially susceptible to protein stability when residual lysozyme is present. Lysozyme shows reversible protein precipitation when held below -2°C(28°F) and irreversible precipitation when held above 45°C(113°F). In addition, lysozyme may flocculate with cork-derived tannins to form instabilities. To avoid problems, clarify white wines with bentonite. Commercial protein stability tests involving acid precipitation indicate that lysozyme-treated wines may need more bentonite than wines without lysozyme treatment.
Will lysozyme affect the sensory characteristics of wine?
In most cases, lysozyme does not add a sensory characteristic to either white or red wines. Lysozyme is a protein and can have some fining activity, especially in reds.
Will lysozyme treatment affect the color of red wine?
Lysozyme added to red must can bind with tannins and other polyphenols that otherwise would have stabilized anthocyanins. This tannin loss can result in reduced color. In general, using 100 to 200 ppm should not cause a decrease in color. Lysozyme added post-MLF for microbial stability during barrel aging may have positive color effects when compared to stabilization with SO2. Any decrease in color should occur in the first few days of treatment. For low color potential grapes (e.g. Pinot Noir), lysozyme shouldn’t be added before alcoholic fermentationis complete. Bench top trials are critical.
Is lysozyme approved for use in Canada?
Winemakers in Canada have not yet approved the use of lysozyme in their wine.
Velcorin
How does Velcorin work?
Velcorin inactivates microorganisms by entering the cell and inactivating some of the key enzymes required for cell function. The current thought is that Velcorin causes methoxycarbonylation of histidyl residues in the enzymes alcohol dehydrogenase and glyceraldehydes-3-phosphate-dehydrogenase. Excess Velcorin then completely hydrolyzes in the presence of water.
What factors determine Velcorin effectiveness?
The effectiveness of Velcorin depends on microbial type, microbial load, pH, and other factors. At low doses, Velcorin is very effective against yeast and fermentative bacteria. At greater doses, Velcorin is effective against bacteria and certain fungi. The effectiveness of Velcorin depends on the initial microbial count. Pretreatment of wine must reduce the microbial load to less than 500 microorganisms/mL. Velcorin is not a replacement for good sanitation practices.
How long does Velcorin remain active?
Velcorin activity is based on its hydrolysis rate. Hydrolysis occurs when Velcorin reacts with water to form methanol and carbon dioxide. The rate of this reaction is dependent on the temperature of the wine. At 10°C (50°F), it takes approximately four hours for Velcorin to completely break down. At 21°C (70°F), the break down occurs in about two hours.
Do I have to list Velcorin as an ingredient on the label?
No. The FDA lists Velcorin as a direct secondary food additive, therefore no labeling is required (21 CFR 101.100).
Why do I have to use an approved dosing system?
Due to the unique physical properties of Velcorin and to help assure safe handling, Lanxess requires the use of an approved dosing machine. Velcorin is only 3% soluble in water and solidifies at 17°C (63°F). The dosing machine is designed specifically for Velcorin, complete with adequate safety features, a special metering system, and temperature controls to prevent Velcorin solidification.
Are there mobile service providers available for dosing Velcorin?
Yes, there are many mobile Velcorin service providers. See the Mobile Velcorin Services page for the contact information.
How much Velcorin can I use in my wine?
The TTB allows up to 200 ppm of Velcorin in wine, dealcoholized wine, and low-alcohol wine (27 CFR 24.246).
What type of packaging is compatible with Velcorin?
Velcorin can be used with nearly all packaging options, such as plastics (PET, PVC), cans, glass, bag-in-a-box, and others.
Enzymes
What is the best way to add liquid enzymes?
An even distribution is important. First, calculate the dosage, then dilute Scottzymes to approximately a 10% solution (v/v) in cool water. Sprinkle the solution over the crushed grapes/fruit or during a pump-over before fermentation. If adding liquid enzymes to wine, gently mix a 10% solution into the tank for an even dispersion.
How do I add powdered or granular enzymes?
Granular enzymes need to be dissolved in ten times their weight in water, gently stirred, and allowed to sit for a few minutes. Then, they are ready to be added to juice or wine. Powdered enzymes tend to scatter across water or wine. So, it is best to add just enough cool 21-25°C(70-77°F) water to the enzyme to create a paste. Next, add more cool water to dissolve the enzyme completely. Now, it is ready to be added to the tank. Make sure you have gentle motion in the tank to disperse the enzyme or use a dosing pump.
How long will powdered/granular enzymes remain active after rehydration?
Rehydrated powdered/granular enzymes should not be kept in liquid form for more than a few hours at room temperature. The liquid solution of these enzymes may be kept a few days at 4°C(39°F) in water acidified with tartaric acid to pH 3.5 with 50 mg/L of SO2.
Are enzymes deactivated by SO2?
Yes, enzymes are inhibited by SO2. Deactivation occurs around 200 ppm. Do not add SO2 and enzymes together. It is okay to add enzymes after the SO2 is adequately dispersed or to add the SO2 after the enzymes are adequately dispersed.
I have already added bentonite. Can I still use enzymes?
You may still use enzymes, but not until the wine has been racked off the bentonite. Bentonite inactivates enzymes, so it is best to use bentonite after the enzyme treatment is complete.
When should I add Scottzyme Color Pro, Scottzyme Color X, Lallzyme EX, or Lallzyme EX-V?
Add at the crusher or the fermenter as soon as possible. Anthocyanins are water-soluble and release as the grapes are being crushed. Most of a red wine’s color potential is achieved very early.
Why should I use Scottzyme Color Pro on whites?
Scottzyme Color Pro improves settling, fining, and filterability of white wines.
When should I choose Lallzyme EX or Lallzyme EX-V?
Lallzyme EX is recommended for fruit-forward red or rosé wines. Lallzyme EX-V is formulated for premium, aged reds.
What should I do if the optimal time to add enzymes has passed?
Low temperatures, alcohol, and SO2 all inhibit enzyme activity, but the enzymes will still work. This is why the recommended enzyme dosage levels for wine are higher than for juice. Reaction time will also increase when conditions are not optimal.
I have problems settling and clarifying my late harvest white wines. When should I treat with Scottzyme KS?
It is best to add Scottzyme KS after pressing and before fermentation. If added later, you will need a higher dose and a longer reaction time in the wine. If you know you have problems with a specific white wine, add Scottzyme KS to the juice tank. Preventative use is more effective and quicker. Warning: Do not use Scottzyme KS before pressing. Never use Scottzyme KS on red grapes or must.
I have enzymes left from last year. Are they still OK to use?
Leftover liquid Scottzymes should be tightly sealed and stored in a refrigerated environment. Granular enzymes should be kept in a dry, cool environment. If the dry enzymes have moisture in them, they should be thrown out. If kept properly, liquid enzymes should be good for at least one year with only a small activity loss. Granular enzymes will be good for several years.
Fining Agents
Do I need to run bench trials before I use a fining agent?
Yes, bench trials are essential to determine proper dosing and efficiency. Each fining product works under a different mechanism and will react to each wine differently. Bench trials and cellar additions should be prepared and used in the same way (same temperature, same mixing style, etc.). If bench trials are not performed, the winemaker may risk under or over-fining and could ruin the wine. Take the time to find the right dose. Your wine will thank you.
What are the main factors that influence how well fining works?
Fining can be a delicate operation. Product preparation and addition, product concentration, temperature, product age, pH, metal content, and previous fining treatments are all factors that can influence the effectiveness of fining. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and maintain accuracy when using fining products.
What should I use gum arabic for?
Gum arabic can be used to stabilize colloids in a wine and help control color drop out in reds. Astringency can be reduced, while volume and fullness in the mouth can be enhanced.
My wine is astringent. What fining agent should I use to reduce the astringency?
Gelatins are a good choice for the reduction of astringency. Gelatins can target harsh tannins and phenolics. Another way to reduce astringency is to add polymerized aging tannins. Bench trials are highly recommended for gelatins and aging tannins prior to use.
I detect bitterness in the finish of my wine. What can I use to remove it?
Often a bentonite and casein blend (Bentolact S) is a fast and easy way to reduce bitterness. If you have already protein stabilized with bentonite, try adding a small amount (25 ppm) of the Scott’Tan FT Blanc Soft to eliminate the bitterness. The Bentolact S will precipitate the bitter molecules, while the tannin will mask it. Bench trials are recommended.
What can I do for a wine that is oxidized?
Depending on the degree of oxidation, it may be necessary to use more than one product. Run bench trials with Caseine Soluble, Polycacel, Polycel, or Viniprotect. Oxidation is easier to prevent than treat. To protect organoleptic soundness, prevent oxidation by adding Bentolact S or Scott’Tan FT Blanc to white grapes in addition to using adequate SO2.
My wine is cloudy, what can I use to try to fix it?
First, check for microbial contamination. If there is a microbial problem, consider SO2 and lysozyme additions (as appropriate) as well as filtration. If microbes are not found, run bench trials with Hot Mix Sparkolloid NF, Cristalline Plus (isinglass), or gelatin. Sometimes the use of enzymes can eliminate wine cloudiness. Also, bench trials with Scottzyme KS or Scottzyme Pec5L may prove useful.
I want to compact the lees. Which product is best?
Run bench trials with Hot Mix Sparkolloid NF, Cristalline Plus, and gelatin. To encourage faster sedimentation, colloidal silica (Gelocolle) can be used after gelatin fining.
What is Sparkolloid NF?
Both types of Sparkolloid (Hot Mix NF and Cold Mix NF) are proprietary blends of polysaccharides in neutral carriers. Both types exhibit a strong positive charge that neutralizes and complexes with clouding particles. Developed in house, Cold Mix is for juice and Hot Mix is for wine. Both are powerful fining agents available at a minimal cost.
What is isinglass? When should I use it?
Isinglass (Cristalline Plus) is used for applications with white and rosé wines. Made from the swim bladders of fish, this fining agent is proven to enhance clarity and brilliance, even in wines made from botrytised grapes.
Which fining agents react with lysozyme?
Carbon, silica sol, oak chips, and tannin will bind and precipitate lysozyme, resulting in a decrease in activity. Bentonite will bind with and inactivate lysozyme.
Which fining agents do not react with lysozyme?
Gelatin, potassium caseinate, and pectinase do not affect lysozyme activity. In fact, pectinase treatment will help maintain lysozyme activity by breaking down phenolic compounds that can bind lysozyme.
What is the best way to add fining agents?
There are several ways to add fining agents: add the fining agent to the tank while mixing with a Guth agitator, dosing into a recirculation pump setup with a stand-alone dosing machine, or with a Mazzei injector.