What is Potassium?
Potassium additives are present in wine and beer for the following purposes: potassium carbonate reduces the levels of acidity; potassium metabisulphite is an anti-oxidant and preservative; and potassium sorbate is used to stabilise wine and prevent renewed fermentation.
Why test for Potassium in wine?
Potassium is a critical factor in acid salt formation and tartrate precipitation. Excessive potassium levels contribute to higher pH measurements in wine and potentially tartrate instability problems. Testing for the optimised potassium concentration is vital to ensure product quality and taste.
