OptiRED – Lallemand Yeast Derivative for Color, Body & Tannin Integration in Red Wines
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Enhances early formation of polysaccharide–polyphenol complexes for more intense, stable color
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Rounds and smooths tannins to reduce harshness and astringency
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Builds fuller body and improved mouthfeel without altering varietal expression
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Can be used at the start or during fermentation for flexible control over tannin structure
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Outperforms generic inactivated yeast products by delivering high‑molecular‑weight mannoproteins via MEX™ processing
OptiRED is a tailored inactivated yeast derivative produced by Lallemand using an innovative MEX™ method that makes high-molecular-weight polysaccharides immediately available in the must. When introduced early during maceration or alcohol fermentation, these compounds complex with freshly released anthocyanins and tannins, protecting color integrity and creating softer, more integrated tannin profiles. The result is a red wine with enhanced intensity, smoother palate, improved structural balance, and longer-term color stability—without over‑manipulating varietal character. This effect is particularly noticeable in light‑ to medium‑bodied reds or in vintages with lower phenolic maturity.
Protocol
Suspend the recommended dose in 10× its weight of clean must or water. Stir thoroughly to ensure full dispersion, then add at one of these points:
• At the beginning of maceration or alcoholic fermentation for enhanced color protection and tannin integration
• Toward the end of fermentation to smooth out persistent harshness without affecting initial extraction.
Usage Rates
Recommended dosage: 20–40 g per hectoliter
= 0.2–0.4 g per liter
= 0.76–1.5 g per gallon
For standard use, 30 g/hL (0.3 g/L or ~1.14 g/gal) provides excellent balance between color enhancement and mouthfeel refinement.
For home users a rough approximate of weight is 1 tsp = 2.6 grams. We highly recommend using a scale to weigh the product for an accurate dose. We do not recommend relying on these rough conversions for accurate dosage rates.
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