Fermcalc is very helpful in conversions, adding sugar to a specific sg, etc... If the juice you buy is labeled as to how much sugar it includes, you can use that as the starting point and go from there to a desired sg. Fermcalc = http://web2.airmail.net/sgross/fermcalc/ from google...
I use this one also. The hose is a little short to reach to the bottom of my sink though. I'm debating adding a plate of composite material to weight it down. Right now it shifts around a lot and will sometimes pop loose from the quick connect at the faucet.
Otherwise - it's a lot more...
Buyer beware then - the ones I picked up DO say "Champagne" on the sides, and they hold 5 rows of 5 bottles. There were several sizes - coffee cup, 'beverage', etc....
I picked up two of these today - the ones labeled 'champagne' work great to hold 25 bottles each. No shipping since the store is local - found them with a quick google search for 'used restaurant equipment'. I'll use them to drain after washing then to bottle without worrying about tipping...
For most fruits you can also use nylon hose - yeah - just like panty hose. I buy the queen size in the little plastic ball at wally-world for about .33 a pair. You'll get 5-10 lbs. fruit in each one. They tie easily and are pretty simple to use. Color doesn't matter but I've heard they...
I have both. The 3 piece fits into my base cabinet better for bulk aging. The S type does show pressure difference better though. Either works, both are simple, get a few of each - it's a good excuse to get another carboy to fit under each one.
Wine that's started fermenting in the bottle hasn't "gone bad". It will have a higher alcohol content though.
Make sure the fermentation has completely finished before sweetening (3 or more days with no change in s.g.) before stabilizing.
Sorbate does have a limited shelf life so check that...
vacuumpumpman- the pic. is a generic pic. the gauge I have shows inches Hg up to 30". Works well or me - that gauge along with the regulator I mentioned in the previous post makes a good setup for me.
Gauges at grainger:
http://www.grainger.com/Grainger/Vacuum-Gauge-4FLT5?Pid=search
Works for me, don't know if this is exactly what would work for you... along with a few fittings from the plumbing department at the box-stores and this should fit most pumps......
Grainger.com has the one I use - easily adjustable, works very well. And it's affordable! They will sell to individuals if you call and explain what you're doing.... I've found them to be very helpful! And it's under $20 with shipping...
I've used my large stainless stock pot for 2 gallon batches - just because it's easier to manage than the 6 gal bucket. Stainless is probably better than plastic anyway -
For a 'shock resistant' coating you can use brush on tile waterproofing compound ( red guard or green guard - different brands of the basic same product.) It's not see through but for the bottom may be a saver. It will scrape off with a razor if you ever want to remove it.