Suggestions to getting this empty demi john full

[geek]

I have one of those 15gal demi john glass containers empty, doing nothing just staring at me.

My budget is not wide open but am considering using Chilean juice buckets or fresh grapes.

I'd like to get some opinions on ratio of fresh grapes or juice buckets needed to get this container full without going too much above, meaning just to fill this container and maybe having a bit extra for topping off.

If I continue with the plan, I want to MLF.

I have to keep in mind that for fresh grapes I'd need to pay a fee for crushing but then I have no press (and no intention of buying one for now).
For juice bucket, I also need to keep in mind that I need to buy a lug (or two) to put fresh grapes into each bucket.

..

 

[cintipam]

Geek, I don't think anybody can say anything better than you already suggested. IMHO it would take 3 buckets plus fresh grapes to get enough post several rackings to fill a demijohn tho. If I'm wrong at least somebody else will speak up and add their opinion.

Pam in cinti

 

[geek]

I think I am getting inclined to juice buckets; 3 buckets are 18gal plus the grape pack would increase the yield and thinking around 20gal.

I think 2 buckets would not cut it; even though I'd wish it did...

 

[Boatboy24]

You could go with two buckets and 4 or 5 lugs. It's probably a more expensive option, but more grapes should equal better wine.

 

[geek]

that could be an option....let me check the numbers:

-2 buckets at ~$52, total $104
-4 lugs 18lbs at ~$27, total $108
Grand total= $212

I think I better MLF in the demi-john and once finished then use plastic buckets to rack and then rack back to demi-john for long storage.

 

[JohnT]

Geek,

I assume that you are talking about a standard 54 liter demi. This is actually 14.26 gallons.

In my experience, if you are crushing/pressing your grapes, 5 full 36 pound lugs will fill a 54 liter demijohn in most cases. If you are not crushing/pressing your grapes, then your yield will be much less.

Your idea of 2 buckets (6 gal) and 4 half lugs (18 lb boxes) is a good one,

If crushed and pressed, you should yield around 16 or 17 gallons so you should have a couple of extra gallons for topping off.

 

[geek]

John, I was actually thinking of using the 4 lugs (18lbs each) as grape skins just like kits.
But maybe now you got me thinking and instead maybe just crush the lugs and mix all in the buckets without a bag....