pH
pH
The pH of wine is the measure of its total acidity (hydrogen ion concentration), typically ranging from 2.9 to 4.0 in most wines. Low pH wines will taste tart and crisp and they are more resistant to microbial spoilage, while wines with a higher pH tend to have a softer or “flabby” mouthfeel. Most white wines have a pH between 3.0 and 3.4, while red wines range from 3.3 to 3.6.
See Also
Clarification
Wine clarification is a process winemakers use to remove suspended solids, such as dead yeast (lees), grape skins, pulp and proteins.
Yeast
Yeast in wine is a microscopic, single celled fungus, typically Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which triggers fermentation by transforming the sugars in must into ethanol and carbon dioxide. Yeasts are essential for converting grape juice into wine and they determine its final alcohol content, aroma and flavor profile.
Oak
Oak imparts flavor, aroma and texture into wines through fermentation in oak barrels. These barrels act as gentle, breathable vessels that add complex notes and improve the wine's overall structure and mouthfeel.
Aging
Aging is a post fermentation process where wine rests in barrels (mainly oak) or bottles to undergo chemical changes that improves stability, develops complex flavors and clarifies the liquid.
Malic Acid
Malic acid is a naturally occuring organic acid in wine grapes, primarily found in unripe or cool climate berries. It gives a sharp acidity, tartness and freshness to wine.
Amphora
Amphora is a traditional clay or terracotta vessel used for fermenting, aging and storing wine. These vessels are neutral and porous, allowing micro oxygenation without adding oak flavors.
Sulfites
Sulfites (sulfur dioxide or SO₂) are chemical compounds naturally produced by yeast during wine fermentation. They act as preservatives, also commonly added by winemakers to prevent bacterial growth, spoilage and oxidation.
Sediment
The term "sediment" signifies the natural, organic by products of the winemaking and aging process. It is made up of grape solids (skins, seeds, pulp), dead yeast cells (lees) and tartarate crystals (wine diamonds).