Heat some drinking water( not distilled) in a cup ( I use a Solo cup), than add a pinch of sugar stir to mix, sprinkle the yeast on top and let set to dissolve.
After about 30 minutes stir yeast in and add some must, wait about 30 more minutes and some more must in you should get action from...
Yes , Keep it topped up. Check it every month or two, check sulfide and top so when you put the bung in the wine comes out. It seems picky but it is so worth it, takes you to a new level':h
Greg