ORGANIC ACIDS IN GRAPE BERRY AND WINE
Rapid changes in the acid/sugar balance occur at the onset
of berry ripening. The presence of adequate levels of organic
acids in the berries is a key factor to determine if the
must has the potential to produce a good and stable wine.
Tartaric and malic acids generally account for 69 to 92% of
all organic acids in grape berries and leaves (Kliewer 1966).
Minor amounts of citric, succinic, lactic and acetic acids are
also present in ripened grapes.