Started my first batch of CC Orange Muscat this afternoon. Followed CC directions to the letter. OG 1.160, wow that kinda surprised me, it was almost as thick as syrup. Temp 72. Two packets of Lalvin EC-1118 re-hydrated and pitched according to directions. Yeast was actively foaming after 20 in 50-50 juice and H2O. Everything looks good tonight, pictures will follow when there's something to show.
The instructions say this wine will finish with the SG around 1.040 - 1.020...later it says, "Again, read the SG carefully - it is finished as high as some wines start". Interesting, I had no idea anyone starts wines out at that low of a SG range.
I want to follow the directions but I do have a question. There was no yeast nutrient packet included in this kit as they were in the two MM kits I've got going. If the fermentation does go as low as 1.040 or lower, it will have an ABV in the 17%-18% range. Is that possible/likely without yeast nutrient added at some point? That's sure a lot of sugar to convert. I've read on Lalvin's site that they recommend using Fermaid K. I wanted to pick some up yesterday when I was at George's but they don't have it or don't stock it. Any first hand recommendations regarding the need/use of it or not?
The instructions say this wine will finish with the SG around 1.040 - 1.020...later it says, "Again, read the SG carefully - it is finished as high as some wines start". Interesting, I had no idea anyone starts wines out at that low of a SG range.
I want to follow the directions but I do have a question. There was no yeast nutrient packet included in this kit as they were in the two MM kits I've got going. If the fermentation does go as low as 1.040 or lower, it will have an ABV in the 17%-18% range. Is that possible/likely without yeast nutrient added at some point? That's sure a lot of sugar to convert. I've read on Lalvin's site that they recommend using Fermaid K. I wanted to pick some up yesterday when I was at George's but they don't have it or don't stock it. Any first hand recommendations regarding the need/use of it or not?