Okay. I have to admit that I am very new to wine making but I absolutley can't seem to get enough of it. I am a bit confused about primary fermentation and I hope someone can help me...
1. I know that primary fermentation is supposed to be an aerobic reaction, meaning that the yeast need air. However, the primary fermenter I got in y kit has a hole to attach an airlock. Do I need to attach the airlock during primary fermentation? I see many pictures on the site that show the airlock attached. The instructions that came with my Vintners Reserve Cabernet kit only say to cover the must during primary fermentation. Should I be using the airlock?
2. Should I be stirring the must during primary fermentation? The instructions don't say to do that with the kits but it seems like it would be similar to "punching down" when making wine from grapes.
Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
1. I know that primary fermentation is supposed to be an aerobic reaction, meaning that the yeast need air. However, the primary fermenter I got in y kit has a hole to attach an airlock. Do I need to attach the airlock during primary fermentation? I see many pictures on the site that show the airlock attached. The instructions that came with my Vintners Reserve Cabernet kit only say to cover the must during primary fermentation. Should I be using the airlock?
2. Should I be stirring the must during primary fermentation? The instructions don't say to do that with the kits but it seems like it would be similar to "punching down" when making wine from grapes.
Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.