Continual use of Acetaminophen and alcohol has been shown to increase your chances of kidney issues. I don't think there is any evidence that occasional use is going to be a problem.
Mine is 1 month into bulk aging. I was surprised at how quickly it was progressing. I have noticed that Shiraz tends to age quickly however my limited experience with Malbec has been the opposite.
I have some now at the 6 month mark and I would not call it drinkable right now. I did do mine by the book.
My personal experience has been that the Shiraz 10 liter kits (WE) have been the quickest that were drinkable.
It is best NOT to rinse the start-san. It breaks down into organic molecules once in contact with your wine so there is no need to rinse. Rinsing increases the chances of infection.
Tim
We are a joint effort as well. This is one of the few hobbies my wife and I have found that we both enjoy. It has brought us closer together and strengthened our relationship. Last night we tested some Luna Rosa out of the carboy (not ready...bummer) and tonight we are bottling DDDB tropical...
Congrats on your two years! Is there a pin or token or something? I just want to know what to expect when I get there :)
I just started earlier this year so I don't have any wine old enough to be called bad...yet:)
The reason you stir up the sediment in the secondary is because it contains the bentonite you added to the primary in the first step. I have yet to have one not clear, even with gas and a reduced quantity of the chitosan.