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A foil sachet of Lalvin RC-212 burgundy yeast next to a bowl of crushed red grapes
Yeast & Additives

Lalvin RC-212 Burgundy Yeast

The red wine yeast. Color extraction, structure, classic Burgundy profile.

Russ-approvedBest for redsEditor's choice

≈ $2price range

RC-212 is bred for reds. Pulls more color out of the skins, gives you better mid-palate structure, and leaves a touch more glycerin.

Use it for Cab, Merlot, Syrah, Pinot from fresh grapes. Skip for kits — the included yeast is fine.

Where to buy

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AmazonPrimary pick$2Northern Brewer$2MoreWine$2

Why we like it

Russ pitches this in every fresh-juice red. Period.

Who it's for

Anyone fermenting fresh red grapes or premium red juice pails.

What's in the box

  • 5g sachet
  • Ferments 68–86°F
  • Up to 16% ABV
  • Optimized for color extraction

Goes well with

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A 6-gallon plastic pail of fresh red grape juice on a wooden floor
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