MLF has started on my kit

[masic2000]

MLF has started on my Costco Chardonnay kit a few days after completion of primary fermentation. This was not expected. I'm not sure how to proceed now, as the kit mfg. said to just keep following the instructions . . . I'm also reading that the sorbate should not be added either since the MLF has started. I'm currently at the Stabilizing and degassing stage after which I need to add the K-meta, kieselsol and sorbate.

Not sure how to proceed at this point. I'm trying not to ruin the wine. Can I just add the chemicals as per the instructions and not worry about the MLF? Any suggestions?

 

[salcoco]

do not add the sorbate. what makes you think MLF has started and not degassing naturally

 

[masic2000]

I'm seeing a steady stream of tiny CO2 bubbles rising . . . I've never seen this in a kit before. Could it be degassing naturally? How could I tell the difference. If it is degassing then I should be OK to proceed as per the insructions?

 

[cmason1957]

Have you ever done an MLF in your winemaking area, my guess is no. I bet it is just degassing. Have you added any kMeta to your kit yet. You could add some, maybe a 1.5 sized dosage. Be careful adding it, my guess is you will get a wine volcano. I would rack back to a bucket and add it, stir the heck out of it, then back to your carboy.

 

[masic2000]

Thanks. This is my first white chardonnay and I have never seen these little bubbles right after primary. I think you have convinced me that this is natural CO2 degassing taking place. I will rack back to a bucket add the chemicals, degass then back to carboy as you suggest.

 

[mainshipfred]

My vote would be it's just degassing as well. Why are you wanting to use the sorbate anyway, is it because the instructions tell you to? Unless you are going to back sweeten I would skip it.

 

[masic2000]

I will be back sweetening one batch but not the other, so i guess sorbate prior to sweetening to prevent further fermentation. Thanks.