Malo questions

[homer]

My new batch of Red wine from Carignane grapes is at the crossroads, it's a little weak on the flavor side, more like a Rose'. Should I start a MLF? Are there any rules of thumb regarding to Malo or not? Can (should) I start MLF and throw in some Oak at the same time? How do you know how much Oak to pitch in?

That's a lot of decisions to make tomorrow. bk

 

[ibglowin]

Was this a juice bucket or fresh grapes? If it was fresh grapes then yes I would probably do a MLF on it. It if was a juice bucket then no. You may need to add some Tancor to help bump up the mouthfeel. If its 6 gallons, the kits almost always include 3oz of oak, sometimes more if its a big red.

 

[robie]

I think I remember seeing your photos of lugs of fresh grapes, if so do like Mike wrote for fresh grapes. The oak can be added in with the mlf. Two to four ounces of oak for a couple of months will work. They will likely be completely neutralized before 2 months. After mlf when you rack. rinse the oak and put it back into the racked carboy. I always like to taste test for oak every week or two, just to make sure you don't over oak. Every one has their own level of oak flavor. If needed, you can give wine another few ounces of oak later.

Can't imagine why your wine from fresh grapes would be a little thin. How long did you leave the skins on the juice?

 

[homer]

Thanks guys. Maybe "thin" is not the correct description, time will tell. bk