2026 Honorary Research Lecturer

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My Malolactic Journey: History, Innovations, and Future Developments

Honorary Research Lecturer
Dr. Sibylle Krieger-Weber, Lallemand SAS, Germany

The Honorary Research Lecture recognizes a researcher who is actively engaged in scientific inquiry and has established a strong national or international reputation in their field. Krieger-Weber’s work has played a central role in advancing the understanding and practical application of malolactic fermentation, one of the most critical processes in winemaking.

We are pleased to host our 2026 Honorary Research Lecturer Dr. Sibylle Krieger-Weber.

Her presentation, “My Malolactic Journey: History, Innovations, and Future Developments,” will explore advancements in malolactic fermentation and the evolving role of bacteria in shaping wine quality, stability and style.

“Dr. Krieger-Weber has been one of the most important contributors to our understanding of optimizing the use of malolactic bacteria in winemaking,” said ASEV Technical Program Director Hans Walter-Peterson. “Her work has helped translate microbiological research into practical tools and protocols that are widely used across the industry.”

Krieger-Weber said her lecture will reflect both the evolution of the science and its continued importance to winemaking. “Malolactic fermentation is much more than biological deacidification. Wine lactic acid bacteria are genuine actors in winemaking, influencing both style and quality. Choosing a spontaneous malolactic fermentation hands control of this final and crucial vinification step to an unknown microorganism—with unpredictable consequences for the wine,” she says. “I look forward to sharing how our understanding has developed over time, as well as the opportunities ahead for improving consistency and control in winemaking.”

Related Links

2026 Honorary Research Lecturer Press Release