Lalvin RC212 - Red Wine Yeast - 5g

Brings Out Deep Colour, Fruit, and Spice in Elegant Reds

Lalvin RC212 is a Burgundy-origin yeast specially selected for fermenting red wines like Pinot Noir, Grenache, and Zinfandel.

It helps build colour and structure by minimizing polyphenol loss during fermentation — which means deeper reds, smoother tannins, and better aging potential.

This strain is perfect when you’re aiming for balance: ripe fruit up front, subtle spice in the background, and a soft, elegant mouthfeel.

One 5g sachet is enough for up to 23 litres (1 demijohn or 5-gallon batch).

What Is RC212 Best For?

RC212 brings out the best in wines where the fruit and finesse matter.

Use it when you want rich reds with colour and character — without going overly bold or tannic. It works great with:

• Pinot Noir – Enhances delicate texture, ripe cherry, and structure
• Grenache and Zinfandel – Balances fruit and spice with a soft finish
• Dark berry country wines – Great for elderberry, blackberry, or sloe
• Red wine kits with grape skins – Helps extract more colour and smooth tannins for better aging

Lalvin RC212 Yeast – Key Specs

• Strain: S. cerevisiae (Bourgorouge)
• Origin: Burgundy, France (BIVB selection)
• Alcohol Tolerance: Up to 16%
• Fermentation Temp: 18–30°C
• Foam Production: Low
• Flocculation: Medium – helps settle post-fermentation
• Nitrogen Requirement: Medium – add nutrient for best results
• Dosage: 5g per 23L
• Best Before: 09/28

How to Use Lalvin RC212

Quick method: Sprinkle onto must or juice and stir gently. Works well without rehydration.

Advanced Method: (Making a Yeast Starter)

• Add 1/2 teaspoon of sugar and the contents of the sachet to a glass with about 50ml of warm water. (approx. 20 °C)
• Cover the glass with a clean plate and simply leave for 15-20 minutes.
• Before you empty the glass of yeast into your brew we recommend vigorously stirring your cider/beer/wine.
• The more oxygen introduced before you put the yeast on will promote a strong healthy fermentation.

Substitute Yeasts

If Lalvin RC212 isn’t available here are some solid alternatives we recommend:

• Gervin GV8 – Great for Bordeaux-style reds with soft tannins
• Mangrove Jack’s CR51 – Berry-forward, ideal for rich red fruit wines

Brewer’s Tip

RC212 loves skin contact — so give your must some time before racking to get the most colour and structure out of it.

If you’re bottling a batch for long-term storage, this yeast will reward your patience with mellow spice and smooth fruit notes over time.