International Code of Oenological Practices

Download document

Treatment with metatartaric acid

II.3.3.7 Treatment with metatartaric acid

Classification:

Metartaric acid: additive

Definition :

Addition of metatartaric acid to wine.

Objective :

To prevent the precipitation of potassium hydrogen tartrate and calcium tartrate.

Prescriptions :

a)        The addition should take place only at the last moment, before bottling.

b)       The dose used shall be less than or equal to 10 g/hl.

c)        The duration of protection depends on the storage temperature of the wine, because the acid in question hydrolyses slowly in the cold, but rapidly under hot conditions.

d)       The metatartaric acid shall comply with the prescriptions of the International Oenological Codex.

Recommendation of the OIV:

Admitted