Other 1st Kit Primary to Stabilizing Question

[Fenny]

So I measured the SG of my Glad Hatter merlot kit today and the SG was 1.000 as far as I could tell, I was expecting this not to happen for another 8 days (according to instructions, started my kit on May 24). I'll test it again tomorrow and if it hasn't changed should I go ahead to the next step or should I leave it for a few more days? I can't imagine it hurting to leave it but I'm just looking for advice and direction. Thanks.

Fen

 

[robie]

Welcome to the forum.

The speed of fermentation has a lot to do with the temperature of the must and the room. Mine always finish much quicker than the instruction imply.

The SG should not drop for 3 days in a row before you move to racking, stabilizing, and clearing.

However, even if the SG has stopped dropping, for a kit you should leave the wine in secondary for at least the number of days specified in the instructions. Nice characteristics are developed during this short time on the lite lees.

 

[tonyt]

Mine usually ferment in fewer days than expected. Rack to carboy, top up and let rest for how ever many days the instructions suggest for primary and secondary (if called for) together. Be sure to add air lock.