Cells of Oenococcus oeni (formerly Leuconostoc oenos) immobilized in alginate beads were used as starter culture to conduct malolactic fermentation in cider production. Concentrations of major organic acids and volatile compounds were monitored during the process, and results were compared to those obtained when using free cells in the same conditions. The rates of malic acid consumption were similar but lower ethanoic acid content and higher concentration of alcohols were detected with immobilized cells. These features have beneficial effects on the organoleptic properties of cider. A comparison between the kinetic behavior in immobilized and free cells; based on the data obtained for the melic acid consumption, has been developed solving the homogeneous diffusion model when it is applied to the system with immobilized cells. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.