Acid Blends in Wine Making

Acid blends are mixtures of acids that are naturally found in wine making grapes. Most blends primarily contain malic, citric, and tartaric acids. Wine making grapes contain more than just these acids but these are the three most abundant acids.

Malic acid contributes tartness to wines. It is the primary acid found in apples for a point of reference. Citric acid, of course, is the dominant acid found in citrus fruits. Tartaric acid also brings tartness to wine and is the dominant acid in cranberries.

An acid blend is used to increase the titratable acidity of a wine. While the point here is to adjust the amount of acids contained within the must it will have an effect on the pH of the must, a measure of the strength of the acids present. Continue reading “Acid Blends in Wine Making”

Adding Potassium Metabisulfite to Wine

Potassium metabisulfite is a necessary preservative in wine making. It provides sulfur dioxide which helps prevent microbial spoilage and fight off oxygenation. However, figuring out how much to add can be complicated.

By the end of this article you’ll understand how this stuff works, how to calculate what you need to add, and what equipment you need to do it. Let’s get to it. Continue reading “Adding Potassium Metabisulfite to Wine”

How to Use Bentonite to Clarify Wine

Bentonite is a common additive used to clarify and fine wines. It’s great for removing protein haze and can be used to remove off aromas. But what is it?

What is Bentonite?

A bentonite slurry being prepared for clarifying wine.Bentonite is an impure clay formed by the weathering of volcanic ash. It is an absorbent material that is able to bond with the floating particles that cause cloudiness in wine.

The main types used to fine wine are sodium and calcium bentonite. While each will contain small amounts of other minerals they are described by the mineral that is in greatest concentration.

Calcium Vs Sodium Bentonite

Continue reading “How to Use Bentonite to Clarify Wine”

Using Potassium Sorbate When Making Wine

Potassium sorbate (or k-sorbate) is a common additive used in wine kits. It’s usually added in the form of a power after fermentation has completed. But what does it do? What precautions should winemakers be taking when using it?

What does Potassium Sorbate do?

Potassium sorbate, a stabilizing agent, must be used with care.
Potassium Sorbate Powder (affiliate link)

Simply put potassium sorbate is used to prevent spoilage by yeasts and molds in a finished wine. It does this by rendering these micro-organisms unable to reproduce. Continue reading “Using Potassium Sorbate When Making Wine”

Using Potassium Metabisulfite to Make Wine

Potassium metabisulfite comes with just about every wine kit and is used as an additive even in wineries.

This article explores what potassium metabisulfite is and how it works. To learn how to figure out how much to add to your wine check out Adding Potassium Metabisulfite to Wine (includes a calculator).

But what does it do? What is it for? Is it safe? Let’s find out. Continue reading “Using Potassium Metabisulfite to Make Wine”