malolactic
/ˌmæloʊˈlæktɪk/
adjective
- Relating to a secondary fermentation in winemaking that converts malic acid into lactic acid, softening the wine's taste.
- Chardonnay often goes through malolactic conversion to give it a buttery flavor.
- The winemaker decided to stop the malolactic process early to keep the wine crisp.
- Many red wines undergo malolactic fermentation to reduce their sharpness.