Malic Acid
Malic acid is one of the most important non-volatile acids in wine. It contributes about half of the total acidity and is one of the prime indicators to viticulturalists that grapes are ready to be harvested.
The Role of Malic Acid in Wine
Malic acid is one of the primary contributors of acidity in the grape. Its concentration tends to decrease as the grape ripens, mostly due to metabolic respiration. The vine and grape will use malic acid as fuel in respiration.
During warmer days, metablic respiration will be high, thus decreasing the total amount of malic acid. However, in cooler climates, its concentration will remain at its initial levels, or decrease only slightly.
Malic acid is very important in wine. If there is not enough, the wine will taste “flat,” and will be more susceptible to spoilage. If there is too much, the wine will taste “green,” or “sour.” Thus it is important for the winemaker to control the amount of Malic acid present.
One of Malic acids defining characteristics is the strength of its taste. Some would describe it as harsh. Because of this, many winemakers choose to replace Malic acid with Lactic acid through Malo-lactic fermentation. Lactic acid is the primary acid in milk and is much “softer” than Malic acid.
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