Recent content by scsjohn

in in it. Thanks for this!!

I didn't think about experimenting. I don't have 3 gallon carboys, but I do have a 5 gallon and 2 growlers. I should have posted before just sticking in the oak spiral. The fishing line is a GREAT suggestion. Also, the package says that allow 6 weeks for full effectiveness, but the web...

When I think back to the best bottle, that is the thing that sticks out. It's been a few years and my taste my have changed, but when I think about that wine, a Cabernet Sauvignon from Alexander Valley in California, I think it was the oak-iness mixed with the grapes that I loved. That's what...

After oaking, I thought I was supposed to bottle. Is it better to bulk age for a few months? Thanks for your help and suggestions!

It's American-Heavy spirals. And if I do taste, do I need to top off again--little by little?

Hello All, Question: Is there really a thing such as over-oaking. I really enjoy the oakiness of wine. I used a kit, put in the four packets (small packets from a vintners aus. cab. sauv) and now I am bulk aging with one spiral in there. I was hesitant to add 2 because of...

thanks, keena. I did end up purchasing one more carboy and it has made things a lot easier!!

Thanks, all!

Will do. thank you.

I just took my first hydrometer reading--1.083. I did not return it to the primary fermentor. I drank it. VERY sweet. Should I have returned it? I'm used to beer and most folks never return the first sample. But I think wine is more forgiving? Yes? I want to start another batch...

Ok. Thanks. I did spend more money getting the better kit this time. Just started it. I don't want to ruin this one--Australian Cab Sauv. Better safe than sorry. I just need to get another glass carboy. I have a 5 gallon for beer and 2 buckets, but I just need to break down and buy...

That makes sense about the head space. I was just wondering if the plastic bucket is bad for the wine. I was referring to bulk aging, I think. Thanks,

Does anyone use a bucket as their secondary fermentor? I have only one glass 6 gallon carboy but want to start a second batch. Also buckets are a lot cheaper. Why use glass vs bucket for secondary fermenting for 3-6 months?

Just tried bleach and water. Still smells like hops. :( Leaving it in the sun longer, after washing it out.

Hello All, Question: Do you use your primary bucket for both beer and wine? I used my bucket for wine, but then decided to get back into brewing beer as well. Instead of purchasing another bucket, I just used the wine bucket. Now the bucket smells like hops. It's been 2 days. I now...