Merlot almost through primary fermentation

[corinth]

I think this is a part two that in ways parrelllels my post on chardonnay .
While at Mirabella's winery in San Pedro, besides the Chardonay juice bucket I bought, they told me that they had some merlot that was just about finishing the primary fermentation and did I want any??? Duh!!!

Sure, I will take three gallons and now I am home and wondering?
i have not done any testing yet or reading yet as I just got home but i know i need to do some testing but beyond that, once I check the sg level , would it be a good idea to add anything to it?

I was thinking of Oak.
Anything else?
I guess I am thinking in the arena of "wine tweaking?" at this junction in time?

Again, I apologize as i am usually more well prepared before I ask my questions but I thought I should ask those who know so one day when I know enough, I will be able to give others some others some feedback.

I look forward to any and all responses.
Corinth.
PS. Rest in Peace Robin Williams

 

[JohnT]

Hey Corinth,

Hmmm, Already through primary??

I have got to guess that the SG reading will be around 1.00?

I would test/adjust acid and definitely add some oak. For a 3 gallon batch, I would add about 2.5 ounces to 3.0 ounces of Hungarian oak CUBES (not chips or dust) for about 6 weeks. A medium toast gives a nice addition of flavor.

 

[Boatboy24]

Did they give you the numbers as they were prior to fermentation? I've never heard of anyone selling "partially fermented" wine.

 

[corinth]

Merlot almost through primary fermentation

Nope,
The elderly gentlemen is kinda " uncomfortable" as I know he is "quite" elderly.
They get grapes in every day, crush them and some start the fermentation and bottle small amount. You can buy fresh grapes, freshly pressed grapes, grapes that are in their primary fermentation....all the way to the very end. You just ask the question and he usually says,OK. This is the stage this particular grape is at and do you want some.

I asked him a couple of questions about the Merlot and he was not really too chatty. I am sure all those years of bending over has caused him to have back pain and knee pain.

Huell Howzer years ago wanted to do a show on their small operation but they were not interested.
Corinth
PS: Hi John, I was just reading and looking through my notes on Oak.