Query...

[taylor]

Just about ready to bottle my first wine (in 20 years). Been no activity in the FV for the last 2 days. FG is at .996 but in my haste to get the first batch on I never took a OG readng. Still to add stabiliser and finings. However, the wine (Magnum Rose) tastes great and looks nice and clear but tastes pretty strong. The instructions asked for 3.5kg sugar but the supplier suggested I put in 4kg which I did. This batch is for swmbo, I prefer red wine and I'm wondering if it'll lose it's strong taste a little or if next time I should go easy on the sugar. It's perfectly drinkable, in fact it's bloody lovely but may be a bit strong for her tastes....

 

[LeithR]

Next time ensure you take an SG reading at the start, it will help you decide how much OR if to add sugar. Most commercial wines are around 13% so maybe thats what you should aim for initially.

On the clearing/finings issue, I would suggest that you leave it to clear naturally if you can, it will take longer but if thats not an issue for you then adding finings will be fine.

Good luck with your brewing! :

 

[taylor]

Thanks for the fast reply. Just swigged the rest of the sample and I have to say it tastes bloody good but def a bit stronger than I'd expected. Bit cloudy but has't had time to clear yet but it'll get as much time as it needs. Plan is to syphon to another FV add stabliser and finings as per instructions and leave for a week then bottle and store. Is this ok?

 

[divingdavey]

Next time ensure you take an SG reading at the start, it will help you decide how much OR if to add sugar. Most commercial wines are around 13% so maybe thats what you should aim for initially.

On the clearing/finings issue, I would suggest that you leave it to clear naturally if you can, it will take longer but if thats not an issue for you then adding finings will be fine.

Good luck with your brewing! :

I've noticed a few people are keen to avoid using finings, why is this?

 

[oldbloke]

They're expensive and don't always work...