Can I use regular bread yeast to make wine?

You can technically use regular bread yeast to make wine, but it may not yield the best results. Bread yeast, also known as Saccharomyces cerevisiae, is commonly used for baking bread and has different characteristics compared to wine yeast strains. While both types of yeast are capable of fermenting sugars and producing alcohol, they have varying tolerances for alcohol levels and other factors that can affect the quality of the wine.

One of the main differences between bread yeast and wine yeast is their alcohol tolerance. Bread yeast typically has a lower alcohol tolerance, usually around 10 percent, whereas most wine yeast strains can tolerate higher alcohol levels, often up to 14-18 percent or even more in some cases. This means that if you try to ferment a wine with bread yeast, it may stop working once the alcohol content reaches around 10 percent, leaving residual sugars and resulting in a sweeter, less alcoholic wine.

Furthermore, wine yeast strains are specifically selected and bred for winemaking purposes, taking into consideration factors such as flavor profile, fermentation speed, and ability to withstand the harsh conditions of winemaking. These specialized wine yeast strains can contribute to the development of specific aromas, flavors, and overall quality of the wine. In contrast, bread yeast may not provide the same desirable characteristics or produce a wine with the complexity and balance typically associated with well-made wines.

While using bread yeast may be a viable option for homemade experiments or if you’re in a pinch and don’t have access to wine yeast, it’s important to be aware of the potential limitations and differences in the end result. The choice of yeast can significantly impact the taste, aroma, and overall quality of the wine.

If you are serious about making wine at home and want to achieve the best results, it is highly recommended to use wine yeast strains specifically designed for winemaking. These strains are readily available from homebrew supply stores or online retailers and come in various types suited for different wine styles and preferences.