First batch - help!! (please)

[arnolac]

I am a newbie to winemaking and just created my first batch of a honey wine (mead) a week ago. I have been trying to go by the book with my first batch to make sure I get a good foot-hold on the basics, but I have run into a slight problem.

I started by fermenting my 5gallon batch for two weeks and as the fermentation process slowed I put it my carboy for another two weeks. At this time I was not sure when to bottle it so after these two weeks I decided to bottle.

The problem I am coming up with is I am having sedimentation form in my bottles! Did I need to let my wine sit in the secondary longer or is there a quick fix to my problem?

Thanks,

Austin.

 

[twissty]

Just handle the bottles gently and pour carefully so that the sediment gets left in the bottles.

Next time let it sit in the carboy longer.

 

[cpfan]

Austin:

You could also consider the use of clearing (or fining) agents. Since I'm not a mead maker, I don't know if this is usual with mead, or which products would be recommended.

Steve

 

[arnolac]

I've used bentonite to little success apparently. Is there a general amount of time I need to keep my wine in the carboy or just until it clears? Thanks for the help, it is greatly appreciated!

Austin

 

[Sacalait]

The general rule for wine makers is patience and that can't be over stressed. Instead of two weeks try giving it 4-6 months.

 

[cpfan]

Although bentonite is a clearing agent, I don't consider it a general purpose clearing agent. In kit wine making it is usually used in conjunction with other agents such as isinglass, chitosan, or K-C.

Steve