Testing for free sulfur

[mikewatkins727]

Wanting to test for free sulfur in my various wine batches, I researched the test procedure for testing. The test calls for methyl red - methylene blue indicator solution. I ordered some (120 ml) through Amazon. The dealer from Amazon (Scientific Equipment of Houston) wants a business address to ship to per federal regs.

My question to the forum is: how do you test for free sulfur? And do you have a source for the indicator solution?

Thanks in advance,

Mike

 

[chrisjw]

A/O ,ethos

I use the aeration/oxidation method. You can get a cheap kit like this one:
http://morebeer.com/products/economy-aerationoxidation-free-so2-test-kit.html
or buy the parts and save a bit of money.

Instructions at:
http://www.morewinemaking.com/public/pdf/MT140.pdf

I buy my chemicals from Presque Isle (our sponsor). piwine.com. I do make my own sodium hydroxide, and use sulfamic acid instead of phosphoric acid since it can be found at the big box stores and is very cheap. Search for sulfamic acid on this forum to find out how much to use.

 

[Runningwolf]

I buy my chemicals from Presque Isle (our sponsor). piwine.com.

Thank you for your support.

 

[mikewatkins727]

Thank you, chrisjw. Your information and reference to piwine.com has been very helpful.

 

[tmmii]

Is there a better tester out there? Not against that one, but looks like a lot of work to use.


Sent from my iPhone using Wine Making

 

[Runningwolf]

Using the A/O test like Mike mentioned is the best and most accurate way of testing for S02. I prefer not to use it due to the length of time to run the tests and you're depending on color change, although it may not be as difficult as doing a TA test on red wines. I use the vinmetrica and complete a test in just a minute or two.