amylase not available

[Wannabe]

My mother wants to start a batch of beet wine. The recipe we have doesn't call for it but I've read that we should use amylase to help break down the starch. We can't seem to get it locally. Is there anything else that we could use instead?

 

[captainl]

I'm not sure but isn't Beano (yes the gas pill) a type of enzyme that brakes down complex sugars. Ive heard of it being used to make lite beers but I don't know about using it in wine.

 

[Wannabe]

Well we certainly have that here. Thanks!!!!

 

[Wade E]

Its also known as Pectic enzyme so check for that.

 

[Wannabe]

Then maybe I have some already. I thought pectic enzyme is for breaking down fruit but that this other stuff was to be used with vegetables. But they're actually basically the same?

 

[Wade E]

No they are not the same, I read it wrong. You should be able to get the amylase in a grocery store as its also used in bread making. The starch will break down on its own but just take much longer.

 

[Wannabe]

That's great. I'll try. Thanks for the info