Lactic Acid Bacteria Contribution to Wine Quality and Safety

Wine production is a complex biochemical process that brings into play different microorganisms. Among these, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) play a central role in the quality of the final wine. LAB are not only responsible for the malolactic fermentation that usually occurs after the alcoholic fermentation but also contribute for other important biochemical reactions such as esterase and glycosidase activities and citric acid and methionine metabolism. Nonetheless, LAB may also contribute negatively to wine quality by contributing to the production of volatile phenols, biogenic amines, and ethyl carbamate. This chapter aims to integrate the current knowledge about the role of LAB in wine flavor and quality.