Primary Fermenter Cover

[Chopper]

Another question from a beginner; many thanks in advance:


Should the primary fermenter have an airtight lid with an airlock attached? My wine making shopsays "yes". Jack Keller's web site in particular says "no" (he says the must needs oxygen when in the primary).


Afriend of mine just uses a clean towel to cover the primary, and a large rubber band to hold it in place. He says the only worry at that stage is fruit flies.


Help?


Thanks,


Chopper

 

[grapeman]

This has been covered many many times and is asked by almost every new winemaker. You will get as many answers as there are winemakers. Your friend has the most often used method and is what I use also. You can attach an airlock from the beginning, but you will need to open it up and stir it a few times. Check this thread from recently also.


http://www.finevinewines.com//Wiz/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=7084

 

[Chopper]

Thanks. Got my answer. Only a clean towel secured by rubber band for me in the future.