Vanilla Beans

[masta]

I have ordered some vanilla beans to add to the mead I have started. I will let you know how it turns out.


Has anyone used whole beans in a wine as an added flavor?

 

[Hippie]

I have read to only use them when they are ripe, which I think they will be almost black in color then. Also, you should split them lengthwise for good flavor extraction. Good luck!


Glenvall

 

[AAASTINKIE]

masta, if you need some vanilla beans I still have a dozen in my
closet, I bought a pound on EBAY last year and have a half gallon of
extract under the counter working (vanilla was my kick about 6 months
ago..lol) they are bourbon Matagaskar beans (nothing but the best for
me and my friends)

 

[masta]

Thanks AASTINKIE for the offer...I too bought some on e-bay for my mead and plan to make some extract!

 

[AAASTINKIE]

Well...if you want to make vanilla extract the government rule is 13.35
ounces vanilla to 1 gallon 80 proof minimum alcohol, you can break it
down from there, I used 1/2 pound in 1/2 gallon cheap vodka, make sure
you cut the beans in half length wise to expose the seeds, shake the
vodka when you think of it, it's good after a few months but like wine
improves with age. You will find recipes on the internet and elswhere
saying put 2 beans in a pint of vodka but that just don't cut it.

 

[Hippie]

That sounds like really good liqueur. Thanks stinkie.

 

[masta]

Thanks for the info stinky on making extract....I will have to get some started with the beans I have left over.

 

[Hippie]

I normally leave my vodka, sugar and fruit mixture for 1 year, turning the quart jars once a week.