Malolactic fermentation

[lcat45]

Just did my first batch of grape juice from Chile and when I went to pick up my order the person ask me if I needed yeast for the malolactic fermentation....well haveing only done kits up to this time I had no idea of what this was about....bough a tube to save me the drive back but when I got home looked it up on the net and still don't know if you should do one.....any takers on this issue most appreciated....thanks

 

[cyberlord]

What's the grape variety/kit type?

 

[Honda88]

if its red wine pitch it after the brewing yeast is finished. if its white wine i wouldnt use it...

 

[lcat45]

Thanks guys for the reply....the variety is Carmenere from Chile and I did put it in after the initial fermentation was complete.....how long do I leave it before I can bottle it? Thanks again

 

[Honda88]

it depends, some go faster then others, it could take up to a month for it too be complete maybe less and sometimes longer.....most wineries do it in barrels and let it age out so they usually wont touch it for atleast a year anyways