Just racked several eclipse kits in preparation for bottling including a 15 month old Nebiollo, a 15 month old Shiraz and a 12 month old Pinot. I was very surprised by how harsh the Nebiollo was when we sampled it. Did not tweak the kit in any way other than leaving out the sorbate and bulk aging. There are no visual defects or off odors but it taste like wine that finished fermenting last week not one that has been bulk aging for 14 months. More like rocket fuel than a fine wine.
I know others have made this kit. Did you have this same harshness at this point? If so how long did it take it to smooth out? The Shiraz which was started on the same day as the Nebiollo is smoothing out nicely as is the Pinot that was started 3 months later. I'm really concerned about the future prospects for this wine. I'm hoping some of you who have experience with this kit can offer some encouragement.
I know others have made this kit. Did you have this same harshness at this point? If so how long did it take it to smooth out? The Shiraz which was started on the same day as the Nebiollo is smoothing out nicely as is the Pinot that was started 3 months later. I'm really concerned about the future prospects for this wine. I'm hoping some of you who have experience with this kit can offer some encouragement.