Description
Yeasts are a critical ingredient in the winemaking process, since they do the actual work of converting the sugar in grapes to alcohol through the process known as fermentation. Naturally occurring airborne yeasts, known to winemakers as ambient yeasts, can be found everywhere, and while any of them will convert sugar to alcohol, not all of them will work at the same rate or produce the desired effect. For this reason, many winemakers use sulfites to kill any ambient yeast, then add strains of specially cultured wine yeasts to build the desired flavors and textures in the finished wine. Unlike ambient yeasts, the cultured yeast strains behave in a reliable and predictable way, ensuring that the vintner can reproduce the same results in batch after batch
LALVIN EC-1118
Lalvin EC-1118 is the original ‘prise de mousse’. It was isolated in Champagne and its use is validated by the Comité Interprofessionnel du Vin de Champagne (CIVC). Its strong competitive character, its ability to ferment at low temperature, good flocculation and excellent alcohol tolerance, make Lalvin EC-1118 an excellent strain to be used in a wide range of applications (such as sparkling wines, fruit wines and ciders).
LALVIN ICV K1-V1116
Lalvin ICV K1-V1116 was initially isolated in 1972 by Pierre Barre of the INRA Montpellier. When fermented at low temperatures (below 16°C) and with the right addition of nutrients, Lalvin ICV K1-V1116 is one of the most floral ester-producing yeasts (isoamyl acetate, hexyl acetate, phenyl ethyl acetate). These esters bring fresh, floral aromas to neutral varieties or high-yield grapes. Among the high ester producers, Lalvin ICV K1-V1116 is the most resistant to difficult fermentation conditions such as low turbidity, low temperature, and low fatty acid content. Lalvin ICV K1-V1116 is a proven strain for the fermentation of ice wines. It can also be used for rosé or red wines.
LALVIN BOURGOVIN RC212
The Lalvin Bourgovin RC212 yeast has been selected by the BIVB (Bureau Interprofessionnel des Vins de Bourgogne), and was developed for red wines with color and structure. Due to the limited polyphenol adsorption on its cell wall, this yeast promotes the stabilization of the color and tannins during fermentation. This outstanding property makes Lalvin Bourgovin RC212 a wise choice to enhance the polyphenolic content of Gamay, Zinfandel and Grenache. Lalvin Bourgovin RC212 consistently produces Pinot Noirs with good structure, ripe berry, bright fruit and spicy characteristics
LALVIN ICV D47
A high polysaccharide producer known for its accentuated fruit and volume. Ideal for barrel fermentation of white wines. Lalvin ICV D47™ was isolated from must in the Côtes du Rhône region in France by ICV, Montpellier. Lalvin ICV D47™ was selected from 450 isolates collected between 1986-1990. The sensory profile of wines made with Lalvin ICV D47™ demonstrate an enhanced aroma and flavour. This can be partially attributed to high β-glucosidase activity. It tends to allow the expression of good levels of terpenes, including citronellol, nerol and geraniol. Due to the release of polysaccharides into the must during fermentation, this yeast contributes to a round, soft palate with good weight. This process can also result in the stability of aromatic compounds. Highly recommended for the production of premium, barrel fermented Chardonnay. When left on lees spicy, tropical, citrus notes develop and the wine is said to have a silky persistence.
LALVIN 71B
Selected in Narbonne France by the National Research Institute of Agronomy (INRA) for its fruity aroma in production of red and white Vins Nouveaux. Due to the production of relatively stable esters, particularly isoamyl acetate, 71B gives a characteristic fruity aroma which reinforces the grape varietal profile. 71B also softens high acid musts by partially metabolizing malic acid (up to 20-40%). A popular strain for production of fresh fruity red wines, including those for early consumption, and enhances wine aromas of Viognier and Gamay. Noted for its ability to limit red wine tannin, colour and structure. A compatible yeast strain for MLF.
LALVIN QA23
Lalvin QA23™ was selected in Portugal by the University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro (UTAD) in cooperation with the Viticultural Commission of the Vinhos Verdes region. It is used for Chardonnay, Sauvignon blanc, Chenin blanc, Colombard and Semillon for the production of crisp and fresh-fruit intense wines. It enhances aromas of terpenic varietals through its beta-glucosidase activity and is an excellent thiol converter, making it a complementary yeast for developing varietal Sauvignon blanc passion fruit character. QA23™ has low nutrient and oxygen requirements and will ferment juice with low turbidity at low temperatures (10°C) to dryness. It is classified as a Saccharomyces cerevisiae bayanus. Very malolactic bacteria compatible.
Brewersdirect is proud to offer Lalvin wine yeast at a great price.
