Lallemand ENOFERM ALPHA Malolactic Bacteria - 2.5 g / 66 gal
Lallemand ENOFERM ALPHA malolactic bacteria for wine MLF
Lallemand ENOFERM ALPHA is a direct-add Oenococcus oeni malolactic bacteria culture for winemaking. This 2.5 g packet treats up to 2.5 hL / 66 gallons of wine, making it a good fit for larger home winery batches, club projects, and small cellar lots.
Use ALPHA when you want a dry malolactic culture for red, white, or rose wines and the wine is within the recommended range for MLF. The strain was selected by IFV Burgundy and is used to help convert sharper malic acid into softer lactic acid while supporting aroma complexity and mouthfeel when cellar conditions are suitable.
Best fit
- Culture: direct-add dry Oenococcus oeni malolactic bacteria.
- Package size: 2.5 g.
- Dose: treats up to 2.5 hL / 66 gallons of wine.
- Wine types: red, white, and rose wines where malolactic fermentation is desired.
- Use: add directly to wine and mix thoroughly.
Recommended wine conditions
Malolactic bacteria are sensitive to the wine environment. For the best chance of a clean MLF, confirm the wine is within the supported range before inoculation.
- Alcohol: under 15.5% ABV.
- pH: above 3.2.
- Total SO2 at crush: below 50 ppm.
- Temperature: above 57°F.
Important limits
ALPHA should not be treated as a fix for harsh MLF conditions. It is sensitive when lactic acid is above 1.5 g/L, and it is not recommended when malic acid is above 4 g/L if complete malolactic fermentation is desired. Monitor malic acid reduction instead of assuming completion from time alone.
Handling and storage
Keep the packet cold until use. Store refrigerated around 39°F / 4°C for short-term use, or freeze near 0°F / -18°C for long-term storage. Once opened, use the packet immediately.
For nutrient support during MLF, see Lallemand Opti'Malo Plus. For another 2.5 g malolactic bacteria option, compare Lallemand Lalvin VP41.