The bentonite that I get from Vineco (and comes in Vineco kits) does not have to be hydrated. Just sprinkle on the must and stir well. That's "speedy". Anything that needs hydrating isn't.
Steve
Steve...
I have a lot of years of making wine before I can even come close to your expertise on the subject, but I respectfully disagree with you on this one. Still, I may be wrong, but I read on a certain retailer's website (whom I won't mention here because they are not recommended by the ones who know) that they have named the Bentonite that they use "Speedy Bentonite" because it is the best Bentonite on the planet.
It turns out that Bentonite is being mined in several different different locations on the planet. The product mined in the US is really good stuff (so I read) with the best of these coming from Wyoming. This is the Bentonite that is being sold as "Speedy Bentonite" and since all Bentonite is a claylike volcanic substance that formed in sedimentary veins in an ancient ocean, it is all similar and needs to be made into a slurry for maximum effectiveness.
Now... having said that... Bentonite, like yeast, can be effective without being made into a slurry, but the hydration of each will certainly increase its effectiveness/speed (once again so I have read).
If I am wrong then my research has betrayed me. I buy mine from a family operation in Oklahoma that only buys and sells Bentonite that comes from Wyoming... no fancy name... only a great price and great customer service. I am reluctant to say who this is, because I do not know if it will be in violation of this websites policies.
I admire you and your advice... let me know if I am wrong on this one.
Respectfully,
HB