Definition: acescence

A disease affecting wine and other alcoholic beverages, caused by a fungus, Mycoderma aceti. As the alcohol transforms into acetic acid, it takes on the smell and taste of vinegar. This is referred to as volatile acidity or acetic souring. A sour wine, containing too much ethyl acetate, or piqué, begins to turn sour. Wine is protected from acidity by storing it away from air.