Red Start Côte des Blancs Wine Yeast

Red Star Côte des Blancs (Davis 750), also known as a premier wine yeast, is a strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae originating from a selection by the Geisenheim Institute in Germany. This yeast is prized for its slow fermentation pace, mirroring the Geisenheim Epernay strain but with reduced foam production, making it a tidy option for winemakers. It delivers fine, fruity aromas, ideal for reds, whites, sparkling cuvées, and non-grape fruit wines—particularly apple, as noted. Côte des Blancs thrives best between 17°C and 30°C (64°F–86°F) and is sensitive below 13°C (55°F). For chardonnay fermentations, nutrient supplementation is typically required, and fermentation can be slowed by lowering temperatures to retain some residual sugar for a nuanced finish.

To prepare, rehydrate the yeast in 10 times its weight of 86°F–95°F water for 20–25 minutes. Gradually introduce must every 5–10 minutes to adjust the temperature, then mix directly into the fermentation tank for even distribution. With no hazard warnings, it’s safe and straightforward to use. Dosage is set at 2.2 lbs per 1000 gallons, and it’s available in 10 kg boxes or 500-gram packets. Crafted by Red Star, this yeast is a versatile choice for creating aromatic, fruit-forward wines with finesse.