If you care to throw any other tips and tricks my way, I'd be happy to hear them.
Thanks for your input, guys! It's really helpful! I'm also happy to hear from anyone else who wants to weigh in -- can't have too much help!
One thing to know with this particular kit - it throws off a lot of sediment (lees) when you rack from primary to secondary to aging. You could easily find yourself with about 5.25 gallons left after starting with 6 gallons. So, you'll need to decide whether you downshift to a 5 gallon carboy or add wine to top up to 6 gallons.
I chose the latter and poured in some good Napa Merlot that I found on sale here in the People's Republic of Pennsylvania.
One thing to know with this particular kit - it throws off a lot of sediment (lees) when you rack from primary to secondary to aging. You could easily find yourself with about 5.25 gallons left after starting with 6 gallons. So, you'll need to decide whether you downshift to a 5 gallon carboy or add wine to top up to 6 gallons.
I chose the latter and poured in some good Napa Merlot that I found on sale here in the People's Republic of Pennsylvania.
Good to know. I think I'll top up -- don't want to lose any wine!
With one I'll add medium toast Hungarian oak cubes, the other I'll add a dark toast American oak spiral. Both will sit in bulk for at least 6 months...
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