The transport of L-glutamate in Oenococcus oeni 8403 is energy dependent. It could be activated either by carbohydrate or arginine metabolism, and it was shown to be stimulated by L-malic acid at low pH values. Transport was optimal at pH 7.0. The apparent affinity constants for transport (KT) was 0.98 microM at pH 7.0. L-glutamate uptake was inhibited by glutamine, asparagine and L-aspartate.