Adding fruit to a Cab Sav kit

[Winchester]

Hi all,

I've just bought a 30 bottle Cab Sav kit to start at the weekend but would like to add some fruit to enhance(?) the flavour.

1. Is this an ok thing to do or do I run the risk of upsetting the balance?
2. I'm thinking of raspberries - any issues?
3. Do I need to prep the fruit in any way other than thorough rinsing?

Thanks Experts!!

James the Newbie

 

[tonyhibbett]

It depends on the kit. Most don't need alteration.

 

[Brewtrog]

Honestly doubt there'd be the need. But so saying, to each their own. I'd personally go with a darker fruit (say blackberry or similar [if you can get your hands on elderberries then they'd be perfect]). Depending on the type of fruit would depend on how you prep it. If you're using a soft fruit then crushing it/juicing it somehow would do the job. Remember though, if you add extra fruit you'll need to add pectolase.
Personally if I were you I'd run the kit as is and make a fruit wine in a separate dj. The draw backs of adding extra fruit is that you'd end up needing to add other bits, the wine would take longer to mature, the balance might be out (etc.). Then again, you could end up seriously improving the kit.
Thinking, an easy way to do it would be to add raisins/sultanas. Just thoroughly wash them (they're coated in oil), chop them up and add them to the must, after 3-7 days move the must (siphon or pour). weight of either is about equal to weight of grape conc, so knock down sugar accordingly.
Good luck with your kit.

 

[mac.eightball]

fortify it with some port, if youre doing 30 bottle then chuck a bottle in prior to bottling :)

 

[Winchester]

Personally if I were you I'd run the kit as is and make a fruit wine in a separate dj.

Thanks! After reading your info I think this is the way I'll go....

fortify it with some port, if youre doing 30 bottle then chuck a bottle in prior to bottling :)

Really? That simple?! I'll buy a 2nd kit today and try that! Thank you....