I am now in the "polishing" stage of a Winexpert Selection kit (Merlot).
I will be leaving it in the carboy for about a month to clear, I may even rack one more time during that month to make sure that I've left all the sediment i can behind.
Anyway, how important is temperature during this stage? In other words, does it have to be room temp (66 to 68 degrees) or can I put it in my basement at 58 degrees?
Do temperature fluctuations hurt it at all? For instance, If I go away for a week and turn the heat way down, will it adversely affect the wine?
Thanks in advance....
I will be leaving it in the carboy for about a month to clear, I may even rack one more time during that month to make sure that I've left all the sediment i can behind.
Anyway, how important is temperature during this stage? In other words, does it have to be room temp (66 to 68 degrees) or can I put it in my basement at 58 degrees?
Do temperature fluctuations hurt it at all? For instance, If I go away for a week and turn the heat way down, will it adversely affect the wine?
Thanks in advance....