Using calcium alginate-entrapped yeast, 24% (w/w) wort was successfully fermented within 8 days. This is half the time needed for fermentation by free yeast. The highest ethanol concentration obtained was 10.5% (v/v). When the original wort gravity was increased, the specific rate of ethanol production remained constant 0.16 g gh(-1) and the viability did not fall bellow 95% of living cells. Protection of cell against osmotic stress by gel matrix was also confirmed by trehalose measurement. The maximum intracellular trehalose content in calcium alginate-entrapped yeast was 3 times lower compared to free yeast at 30% (w/w) wort fermentation.