Modern yeast development: finding the balance between tradition and innovation in contemporary winemaking

A key driver of quality in wines is the microbial population that undertakes fermentation of grape must. Winemakers can utilise both indigenous and purposefully inoculated yeasts to undertake alcoholic fermentation, imparting wines with aromas, flavours and palate structure and in many cases contributing to complexity and uniqueness. Importantly, having a toolbox of microbes helps winemakers make best use of the grapes they are presented with, and tackle fermentation difficulties with flexibility and efficiency. Each year the number of strains available commercially expands and more recently, includes strains of non-Saccharomyces, strains that have been improved using both classical and modern yeast technology and mixed cultures. Here we review what is available commercially, and what may be in the future, by exploring recent advances in fermentation relevant strain improvement technologies. We also report on the current use of microbes in the Australian wine industry, as reported by winemakers, as well as regulations around, and sentiment about the potential use of genetically modified organisms in the future. The number of commercial yeasts available and used by winemakers is ever expanding as are techniques to develop them; the authors review these and survey Australian winemakers for opinion and use.

Automated summary

The microbial population in wines plays a crucial role in determining their quality. Winemakers can use both indigenous and purposefully inoculated yeasts to achieve desired aromas, flavors, and structure in the fermented grape juice. Having a diverse toolbox of microbes helps winemakers adapt to different grape qualities and overcome fermentation challenges. This article reviews the commercially available yeast strains and explores the advancements in strain improvement technologies. It also discusses the current use of microbes in the Australian wine industry and the regulations and sentiment surrounding genetically modified organisms in winemaking.