MLF occurs easily in large tanks simplifying control of the process
producing wines with differentiating characteristics. The basic
structure of the wine is essentially the same regardless of whether
MLF is done in tanks and then aged in barrels or whether both
processes, MLF and ageing, are done simultaneously in barrels.
However, these latter wines undergo MLF faster and lose less color
intensity in the process. It has also been shown that there are
important variations in some volatile compounds; in general terms,
fewer methoxyphenols and more whisky-lactones and furanic
compounds. The effects on color and these volatile compounds
both have a positive effect on the sensory profile of the wines
produced.