Definition

Relating to a process in winemaking where a type of acid is changed into another type, making the wine taste smoother.

Example

The winemaker decided to use malolactic fermentation to enhance the flavor of the wine.

Conversation

Have you ever tried a wine that has undergone malolactic fermentation?

No, I haven't! What does that even mean?

It's when the sharp malic acid is converted to softer lactic acid, making it smoother.

That sounds interesting! I should look for wines like that next time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Malolactic → It is formed from "malo-" (from Latin "malus", meaning bad or evil) and "lactic" (from Latin "lactis", meaning milk). The term refers to a fermentation process that converts malic acid (found in apples) into lactic acid, which is considered a softer, less harsh acid in wine making, hence the 'bad' aspect of the original acid being transformed into a 'milk' related acid.

Memory Tip

Think of 'bad' ('malo-') acids being turned into 'milk' ('lactic') acids during fermentation, which helps you remember that malolactic refers to this transformation in winemaking.

Visually Confused Words