Molecules (Feb 2022)

Advances in White Wine Protein Stabilization Technologies

  • Daniela Silva-Barbieri,
  • Fernando N. Salazar,
  • Francisco López,
  • Natalia Brossard,
  • Néstor Escalona,
  • José R. Pérez-Correa

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules27041251
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 27, no. 4
p. 1251

Abstract

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The unstable proteins in white wine cause haze in bottles of white wine, degrading its quality. Thaumatins and chitinases are grape pathogenesis-related (PR) proteins that remain stable during vinification but can precipitate at high temperatures after bottling. The white wine protein stabilization process can prevent haze by removing these unstable proteins. Traditionally, bentonite is used to remove these proteins; however, it is labor-intensive, generates wine losses, affects wine quality, and harms the environment. More efficient protein stabilization technologies should be based on a better understanding of the main factors and mechanisms underlying protein precipitation. This review focuses on recent developments regarding the instability and removal of white wine proteins, which could be helpful to design more economical and environmentally friendly protein stabilization methods that better preserve the products´ quality.

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