What's the Big Deal with all these ADDITIVES in Mead, Wine and Cider Making?

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  • čas přidán 20. 08. 2024

Komentáře • 195

  • @patriotsedge6730
    @patriotsedge6730 Před rokem +49

    The biggest thing I've learned from your channel that I appreciate the most is NOT using chemicals of any kind. Yeast, nutrients, and time. It's all you need.

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před rokem +17

      You can totally do it that way. We just like to know all the options and decide what is best at the time.

    • @Jchernega1
      @Jchernega1 Před rokem +1

      He talked about a couple of different chemicals in the process being used. Also everything involved with this process utilizes chemistry and the chemical makeup of the ingredients we interact with.

  • @georgehardisty8948
    @georgehardisty8948 Před rokem +16

    This video highlights what I like about your channel. You inform us about the process, give basic recipes and encourage us to experiment.

  • @lennyketchum7922
    @lennyketchum7922 Před rokem +15

    My winemaking journey started when I grew some watermelons knowing that I don't like watermelon. However I do like drinking, so I investigated the possibility of making wine from watermelon. It came out terrible! 😂 Anyway, having scoured the CZcams I came across your guy's channel and you have inspired me to not give up. Now I am obsessed with wine making. You guys make it fun thank you!

    • @MShack812
      @MShack812 Před 8 měsíci +2

      I’m so sorry I’m not trying to be a hater but YOU DONT LIKE WATERMELON?! This is blasphemy!

  • @edwardcunningham6315
    @edwardcunningham6315 Před rokem +7

    Definitely appreciate you sharing your knowledge with us. I've been using Camden in all my brews. I consider it as important as STARSAN. It helps to "clean up" the ingredients you cannot sanitize. It is also recommended to double the amount when you've completed the fermentation to help with stabilizing the brew. And you are "spot on" with the effects of campden on yeast, it doesn't kill them, just makes them "impotent" (🤣😂) due to environmental conditions, so I can add a whole lot of honey for backsweetening and not end up with a bottle bomb🙏.
    BTW, the dark cherry pomegranate wine came out with a good maraschino cherry taste. Almost a "syrupy", smooth mouth feel with a strong cherry taste. Thanks again and keep recording, we'll keep learning 👍😁❤️

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před rokem +7

      They do NOT halt fermentation on their own. They may slow it, and sometimes stop it, but it's not a reliable way to stabilize. We also prefer to not have so much preservatives left in our brews, thus we don't use them at that point.

  • @sykotik257
    @sykotik257 Před rokem +5

    Hey I just wanted to thank you guys so much for everything you do. I recently finished fermenting 2 gallons of a passion-orange-guava wine and it was SUPER dry, like 0.8. I could barely get my hydrometer to float in the 100 ml cylinder you recommend. It tasted like orange juice after brushing your teeth, it was awful. But because of watching so much of your channel I back sweetened the bejesus out of it, added a little baking soda because it was too acidic, and added some black tea because it was missing... something. And now it is fantastic! I entirely have you two to thank for why I'm enjoying it and not pouring it down the drain.

  • @ADKwarriors
    @ADKwarriors Před rokem +13

    Fermaid-o, Wine Tannin, and Acid blend are good to have on hand. I pasteurize my brew as well and never used stabilizers. I give my mead to people who have allergies/medical/personal concerns so no additives. Love your videos and thank you for the information!

  • @eddavanleemputten9232
    @eddavanleemputten9232 Před rokem +7

    That’s a great overview. And you said it very well. If your method works for you, you like the results and those you share the results with like it, AND you’re not making anyone sick (except perhaps for the results of overindulgence), you’re doing a fine job.
    And I absolutely LOVED your parting shot. The vikings didn’t have all that. We do. I’m stealing that!

  • @mattrenaud7573
    @mattrenaud7573 Před rokem +6

    I really appreciate how you guys approach this subject. I just wish some brewers wouldn't get so defensive about what they use.
    I've had people get all defensive when I've asked if their brew contained sulfites. They acted like I was insulting them. I have a strong sulfite sensitivity that gives me debilitating headaches. When I explain this most back down. But I did have one person call me a liar. I don't understand why this topic brings out such strong emotions in some people.

    • @barrytdrake
      @barrytdrake Před rokem +3

      Wow, that is unfortunate that they reacted that way. I only use a bisulfite solution to sanitize the equipment and bottles; I don't add it to the brew itself. Even so, I put "Contains sulfites" on all my labels precisely because some people have sensitivity to them, and I don't want to make anybody sick, even with just trace amounts.

    • @julietardos5044
      @julietardos5044 Před rokem +1

      A lot of people who get migraines are sensitive to sulfites.

    • @mattrenaud7573
      @mattrenaud7573 Před rokem +1

      @@julietardos5044 Yup. I've been getting migraines since I was 14. But people's reaction to that is a whole other rant.

  • @stevejones7553
    @stevejones7553 Před rokem +4

    Just to add to the thoughts on acids: I have only made a few ciders and perrys, but have found that the apple varieties easily available in my area benefit a lot from acid additions (as well as tannins and backsweetening at times). I purchased some malic, citric, and tartaric acids, so I could see the impact of each separately, and found it very informative. The citric wasn't that great in cider, but the other two were quite interesting and helpful in certain ciders. Acid Blend is typically an even mixture of all three acids, so seems less useful for my ciders (but could be great for certain types of wines). Cheers!

  • @jeffreydolley2546
    @jeffreydolley2546 Před rokem +3

    One other benefit of using potassium metabisulfite (campden tablet) is that it removes chlorine and chloramine from your water, which is bad for fermentation and creates nasty off-flavors. You don’t need a lot, though. One campden tablet is enough to scrub chlorine from 20 gallons of water, so keep that in mind if you decide to use it

  • @idylehandz3911
    @idylehandz3911 Před rokem +3

    A perfectly timed video for my first brew that I’m ~1 month into primary fermentation for. 100% inspired by your channel!

  • @busterkoala5906
    @busterkoala5906 Před rokem +4

    Someone who had bread yeast who turned it into hulls here. Chucked it on a tray, baked it at around 100c for around 30min and no issues so far. I'll check for residual fermentation tonight and give update tomorrow

    • @eddavanleemputten9232
      @eddavanleemputten9232 Před rokem +3

      Boiling works too. Add some yeast to a bit of the water for your mead/wine, boil it for a few minutes. Add to your fermenter along with the rest of your ingredients.

    • @busterkoala5906
      @busterkoala5906 Před rokem +3

      FUN FACT: OVERCOOKED YEAST (PROBABLY) BURNS OFF A LOT OF SHIT AND LEAVES YOUR HOUSE REEKING LIKE AMMONIA IT'S A FUN, NUTTY, DISUGSTING EXPERIENCE LIMIT YOUR TIME AND HEAT FOR THE SAKE OF YOUR FAMILY

    • @busterkoala5906
      @busterkoala5906 Před rokem +2

      honestly with my grades I shoulda known better but for some reason I didn't consider that this major ammonia-containing component might actually release ammonia into the air. The air fucking reeks right now and I've had every window open for a bit

    • @julietardos5044
      @julietardos5044 Před rokem

      @@busterkoala5906 If you have a fan, point the fan out a window. It will help.

    • @busterkoala5906
      @busterkoala5906 Před rokem +2

      @@julietardos5044 Accidentally burnt it and from what I could smell a lot of it degraded into ammonia. Went out for a few hours and it still reeked when I got back even with fans and doors open

  • @markstevens7838
    @markstevens7838 Před rokem +1

    Good video. Best philosophy, “You don’t have to use everything all the time”. Sometimes people use a lot additives because they want to drink their wine quickly. Thus all the clarifiers. Most of the time if your a little patient your wine will clear in time and you might also have better tasting wine.

  • @rodneyswitzer607
    @rodneyswitzer607 Před rokem +2

    Great video, I have made mead and wine that I like but know one else likes, and I have made some everyone likes. Keep up the good work.

  • @Pendragon-dnd
    @Pendragon-dnd Před rokem +2

    I started my 1st brew last week and you’re channel has been a great resource. I got excited seeing that this video was just released today!

  • @gtjdbydave
    @gtjdbydave Před rokem +7

    I made a blackberry and currant mead. It came out a little to acidic for my taste. I'm looking forward to your future video on testing and adjusting acids during a brew

    • @chilecayenne
      @chilecayenne Před rokem +2

      Would back sweetening a little help counter that acidic batch a bit maybe?
      HTH,
      CC

    • @redbirdsrising
      @redbirdsrising Před rokem +3

      @@SirWussiePants I did my first MLF on a Pinot Noir last year. I let it sit for three months to finish but that buttery taste is amazing. I don't think I'll do a red wine without it.

    • @gtjdbydave
      @gtjdbydave Před rokem +1

      Thanks for the suggestion

  • @daigledj
    @daigledj Před rokem +5

    I know you guys are already playing with them, but acids are definitely a game changer for some brews. I'm in the entry stage of learning about them and still just sticking to the blends but thus far most brews that you want to have the "pop" of acid seem "best" with roughly half the amount of acid to tannin (obviously vary brew and ingredient dependant). I do lean towards sweeter acidic brews, though, with tastes preferences similar to Derika.

  • @markspagel4228
    @markspagel4228 Před rokem +1

    My buddy just told me your from north east pa. That’s awesome bro I’m from Erie pa and I use your channel religiously for my mead n wine

  • @natejoseph4121
    @natejoseph4121 Před rokem +1

    That page 1 toss was magical

  • @c.e.holmes2562
    @c.e.holmes2562 Před rokem +2

    A very instructive video. Thank you for your hard work.

  • @theintrovertedcalifornian5047

    Made 10 gallons using your original recipe and it turned out perfect. My family and friends loved it . For some reason they said it was 3 times stronger than other wines they had tried lol. I used no nutrients just chopped raisins ,tea and orange peels. After aging for 3 years it was awesome!

  • @raymondwall8187
    @raymondwall8187 Před rokem

    As a Pastafarian, I appreciate your open-mindedness. This is the meaning of the colander.

  • @Tennesseepipin1791
    @Tennesseepipin1791 Před rokem +2

    Great video Brian. Uber helpful. Can't wait for a new brewing video. You and Derica are awesome. Far from amateur. Yall are artists of the craft. Yall have been a great inspiration for my brewing. Thank yall.

  • @Nefariousrouge
    @Nefariousrouge Před rokem +1

    Awesome video. Understanding what all these do and when to use them is what takes you from novice to next level. I side stepped a little during the pandemic and started working on beer. A lot of it translates over, and I have been experimenting using some of those principles for cider and mead.

  • @AdamFranklin500
    @AdamFranklin500 Před rokem

    Really appreciate this video. None of that you're doing it wrong or that's not how I do it so you should do it my way. People brew differently, with different products but can still totally learn and make amazing brews following your videos. It's that bringing people together and the inclusion that i personal think is a factor as to why this is such a great channel. I genuinely believe so many people are into home brewing and why the community is thriving comes down to the great, welcoming job you and Derica do. Keep it up :)

  • @briancohen-doherty4392
    @briancohen-doherty4392 Před rokem +2

    Great video 👍

  • @rgregoryii
    @rgregoryii Před 10 měsíci +1

    I use yeast energizer fairly often. The habit for me started when brewing some larger beers like imperial stouts. If I feel the yeast could use some help when getting started I use it. Sometimes it's yeast based sometimes its based on what I'm brewing. I don't have a hard science for it but i haven't had bad results when using it.
    Well the closest thing to a bad result was my Belgian quad going above 15 percent abv and being hard to carbonate. Otherwise it's been a great tool in my belt when needed

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 10 měsíci

      Energizer or Nutrient? They are actually different. We use Fermaid O as a nutrient. I'd rather not use energizer as it's normally diamonnium phosphate and, well, personal preference, I don't care for having that in my brews.

    • @rgregoryii
      @rgregoryii Před 10 měsíci

      @CitySteadingBrews energizer
      I used it first when I tried a liquid yeast and it stalled on me.
      Then used it where I felt it would help. Any brew I used it in I have always let sit a little longer then normal as well so if it gives any off flavors they are gone before I bottled anything

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 10 měsíci

      It's not really off flavor, it alters the flavor if it's not all consumed.

    • @rgregoryii
      @rgregoryii Před 10 měsíci +1

      @CitySteadingBrews I haven't had an issue yet. As well as no complaints from those that share my brews. So I'm going to go with I've gotten all of it out of the brew when it was all said and done.
      P.s. - my wife loves your voices as background noise she finds them very soothing

  • @rageagainstautotune2094
    @rageagainstautotune2094 Před 11 měsíci

    You remind me of a wizard who doesn't take his work too seriously. It is only after you've gone down the rabbit hole and look into all the different methods and philosophies and not finding a "best" one that you see the wisdom in the lighthearted wizard's approach.

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 11 měsíci

      Been down quite a few rabbit holes... oh, I do take this seriously, just not enough to be elitist about it :)

  • @redbirdsrising
    @redbirdsrising Před rokem +2

    I swear by bentonite. It's just clay, and is used in facial mud packs and other applications. It can be used in primary but I prefer secondary. Just stir it once a day for a week, then let everything settle for a month. Clear as day.

    • @barrytdrake
      @barrytdrake Před rokem +2

      That is my preferred method when I add a clarifier, as it is a physical process and not a chemical one. Most times I don't bother, as it's just extra work, and I don't care if my brews are clear or not (most of the meads clear on their own anyway).

  • @dailykilluminati1310
    @dailykilluminati1310 Před rokem +1

    I dont even use nutrients. I made a very nice blueberry strawberry mead without it. There are planty nutrients in the fruit itself sometimes.

  • @NathanDiegel-gu3qw
    @NathanDiegel-gu3qw Před 9 měsíci

    wanted to say thank you very much for your Experience and knowledge I’m new to this my first batch was a failure do to not enough sugars and I added spice in the beginning your videos help me along the way to a second attempt you guys rock

  • @williamcarswell1071
    @williamcarswell1071 Před 9 měsíci

    great info thank you.... I have done about 30 fruit wines,, meads etc so far,, great fun, I use no sulphites,,, none,, so camden tablets,,,, no potassium sorbate,,,, my sinuses blow up when I drink a wine with this crap in it.... I pasteurize with heat,,, then back sweeten as needed,,, works perfectly,,,, and no chemicals required ,,, my wines leave my sinuses clear and my head clear,
    I no longer drink commercial wine,,,, because I resent all the chemicals they use,, and I feel so much better without them in my body.

  • @TheBondProjectii
    @TheBondProjectii Před rokem

    Great stuff :) asked for this video and it’s already here, answered my question in the 1st minute

  • @qwosters
    @qwosters Před rokem +1

    Honey is not significantly acidic in the majority of cases. In fact, for grape wines, fermentation will raise Ph whereas for meads fermentation lowers the ph. Meads start slightly acidic (4.5-5.5) and become more acidic as they ferment (3.8-4.5)

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před rokem +3

      Honey ferments tend to fall in the sweet spot for pH. Honey is acidic enough that even when diluted it does at least that.

  • @alexcan669
    @alexcan669 Před rokem

    I totally loved your video. Specially when you are starting out these chemicals can be very scary and also expensive for someone who is just starting out and is unsure if they would even like the hobby

  • @leahlockettharris4579
    @leahlockettharris4579 Před rokem +1

    Thanks!

  • @anttikarjalainen4736
    @anttikarjalainen4736 Před 11 měsíci

    Hi! First off, thank you guys for giving me a new hobby! My partner and I adore the idea of making mead for both historical and culinary reasons. Our gear will arrive soon, so we are complete newbies. You gave us plenty of hope, so thank you. My actual question is regarding yeast nutrients. Apparently we can't get Fermaid here. The only option I found was Auner yeast nutrient Diammon Phosphate. You mentioned that you prefer not to use it. I would like to hear why you chose Fermaid over it, if there are reservations in using it etc. I understand that you not using it doesn't make using it wrong, but I am curious about the practical difference between them. Thanks again for you time and dedication!

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 11 měsíci +2

      Dap can leave odd flavors and it has “some” links to a possibility of cancer. Keep in mind it “should” be consumed in fermentation, but, that requires very accurate measurement. Fermaid-O is organic and contains no dap. It’s simply a better option. Where are you that you cannot get it?

    • @anttikarjalainen4736
      @anttikarjalainen4736 Před 11 měsíci

      @@CitySteadingBrews I am in Finland. Fermaid-O was not available in Amazon at least. Perhaps there are other organic yeast nutrients around, I will have to do some research. Thank you for your reply!
      Edit: I actually checked and the only Fermaid available here is the K version, which wouldn't help as I understand it. I could get Wyest beer nutrient blend, which is meant for larger batches (10g into 100L), but it doesn't seem fully organic either.

  • @0calvin
    @0calvin Před rokem +3

    One thing I'm curious about... The Fermaid-O instructions say to add it after 1/3 of the sugars are consumed, or something like that. I see that you guys add it at the very beginning and it seems to work fine. Does anyone know the reasoning for the manufacturer's directions not to add it right away? Perhaps it makes the initial fermentation a bit too vigorous?

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před rokem +6

      It's called staggered nutrition. Some prefer that method, we just keep it simple.

  • @DavidThomasTimmer
    @DavidThomasTimmer Před 10 měsíci

    For a beginner these are answers we need
    I have a question
    Recipe - 6 lbs cherries berries
    12 lbs honey
    4 gallons water 2 of which were boiled with
    12 oz hibiscus
    I added 4 tablespoon of yeast nutrient from a local brew store that doesn’t have a name other than their shop. Do I need a yeast nutrient energizer for this nutrient or not…..?
    Last but not least two packs / 10 grams of wine yeast.

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 10 měsíci +1

      I have never used energizer. I suggest following a few of our recent videos to see our methods.

  • @zand3rs
    @zand3rs Před rokem +2

    Would really love if you in the future would take the time to add timestamps :) giving you a thumbs up because i can xD

  • @sketch334
    @sketch334 Před rokem

    You look like a mad scientist will all them bottles behind you.Maybe give us a tour of all your goodies?

  • @kamalakrsna
    @kamalakrsna Před rokem +1

    @: Berkeley, CA "WINE CRAFT"
    On San Pablo Ave.
    seems: all employees r:
    chemist level
    Time i bought a few different yeast
    That guy advised: add 1 tblaspoon: citric acid per: 5 gallon mead "must"
    he said that: acid'd:
    kick up the "ABV" level significantly.

  • @javamonjoe
    @javamonjoe Před 7 měsíci

    I started staggering my fermaid O additions recently. Today I added some to a half gallon dry traditional which I'm making to mix with a too sweet pomegranate mead. After about 30 minutes I gave it a swirl. It was like I had dropped Mentos in a diet coke! Cookie sheet doesn't help when the brew spews 6' in the air. Addition, btw, was a bit shy of 1/8th tsp.

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 7 měsíci +1

      Yup, nucleation is a thing, lol. I've never found a good reason to stagger nutrients. Then again, I don't make sky high ABV brews either.

    • @javamonjoe
      @javamonjoe Před 7 měsíci

      @@CitySteadingBrews I've had a few stalls lately. Not real high abv, but not as dry as they should be. Just trying to head off another

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 7 měsíci

      Staggered doesn't really prevent stalls so much. Check temperature, specific gravity of the must and pH. Those are most often the culprit.

  • @AndrewDeLong
    @AndrewDeLong Před rokem +1

    So, for the first time ever I used pectic enzyme and yeast nutrients in one of my brews. A dandelion wine recipe. I used measured recommended amounts of both.
    Now, I have an issue where my must is not only yellow (I do expect a golden color with dandelion wine), but it effectively looks like mustard. I mean a literal gallon of solid yellow mustard. It's 100% opaque and mustard yellow.
    Keep in mind, it's only about a week into fermentation, but it doesn't seem to be clearing up at all.
    Is this something you've ever heard about? I get that you have only recently started using enzyme yourself, but I'm hoping that you might have at least heard of something like this through the grapevine.
    Worst case, I've just made my first solid color wine. If it tastes good when it's done, I'm still using it, lol.

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před rokem +3

      I would say the color comes from the dandelions not the pe or nutrients. As doe jot clearing… it’s still fermenting and inly been a week. Give it time.

  • @davidmcdonald4771
    @davidmcdonald4771 Před rokem +1

    Thank you sir.

  • @leahlockettharris4579

    Excellent explanation 👌🏾

  • @scottbennett6200
    @scottbennett6200 Před 7 měsíci

    I admit that I didn't read all 200+ comments so I may be adding to the already dead horse, so to speak... That being said, is pasteurization the same as the stabilizers? Seems to me they achieve the same result. I am starting the Holiday Mead and can't wait to try it at 3 and 6 months... CHEERS!

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 7 měsíci +2

      More or less. Pasteurization actually kills the yeast, the chemicals don't. Also, pasteurization won't "wear off" over time.

  • @CaioKellermann
    @CaioKellermann Před rokem +2

    I would love to see you experiment with Bentonite. It's a natural clearing agent made of a type of clay, so it falls on the same category of wine tannings (natural additives) and it normally improves clarity in about 20% if you leave it for about 2 weeks. I would love to see a side by side comparison and taste test with and without Bentonite

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před rokem +6

      Not likely. We don't have much issue with clarity, and bentonite is often packaged with less than great materials.

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před rokem +3

      I do intend to check it out more though. Seems not ALL bentonite is packaged that way!

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 11 měsíci +1

      Right... it's been mostly the packaging materials they use to prevent clumping and whatnot.

  • @the_whiskeyshaman
    @the_whiskeyshaman Před rokem

    I always go with the K.I.S.S. Method and have made some killer brews.

  • @ravenone9128
    @ravenone9128 Před rokem +1

    I have a question about yeast hulls. And as I am still very new to this whole thing, I want to be clear I am not arguing their usefulness. I trust the advice of those with more experience than I. What I am wondering is... how? Like... There's a layer of dead yeast at the bottom of the bottle. How does adding more help the brew restart? Again, I'm not saying it doesn't, I'm just curious as to how it works. If anyone knows or has a theory, lay it on me! Otherwise, I guess I have a late night date with google! lol!

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před rokem +2

      In theory the yeast have used up the nutrients in the lees later already. Also, the lees is made up of live and dead yeast. They literally rise on the co2 they produce and fall through the must. So the sediment is very much a living colony of yeast feeding on their dead cousins.

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před rokem +2

      Or… not enough yeast have died yet, so more of the basic nutrients are required.

  • @LycaonsMemories
    @LycaonsMemories Před rokem

    in the end, the only 3 things that matter; do you like your brew? is it safe to drink or make? is it legal to make in your area?
    beyond that do what you want folks.

  • @davebuehner4307
    @davebuehner4307 Před rokem +2

    As I remember, for one of your brews, you used gelatin with success, do you still like a dash of gelatin as a clarifying additive?

  • @aqualab3895
    @aqualab3895 Před rokem +1

    Enjoy your videos, entertaining and informative. I recently added North Mountain tannins to two 6-gallon batches (Pomegranate and a Traditional) after seeing you use it in your videos. I added the tannin into the secondary after transferring from the primary. I followed the manufacturer's recommended dosing instructions and it turned both batches to a dark brown after a couple of days... Will it eventually settle out and return them to their original coloring? I'm planning to age in the secondaries for a month or so to ensure the yeasts have completed their job before adding Firmfast Dualfine to clarify. I will then transfer again to age. Thank You!

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 10 měsíci

      It should clear out yes. We don't like to add clarifiers of that type for personal preference but I would never say you shouldn't use them as they are no more dangerous than any other clarifier. We normally don't worry about absolute clarity as it doesn't affect flavor.

  • @richardhart7652
    @richardhart7652 Před rokem +1

    Most times less is more

  • @thegoodwolf4255
    @thegoodwolf4255 Před rokem +1

    With cider sweet carbonated should I be bottling after primary and aging in the bottle or can I bulk age cider in the carboy. I keep getting a white layer overtop the brew when i age in the carboy. I don't get this with any other brew I make beer wine or mead included only cider.

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 7 měsíci

      You shouldn't be boiling at all... czcams.com/video/tvvuVJNn2jM/video.htmlsi=C8sJosCOtuSVO3ej

  • @dvsmotions
    @dvsmotions Před rokem +1

    I am struggling with using and understanding acid blends. It's in a lot of recipes but I don't know exactly what it does and more important, when and how much to use. How do you know how much to use, if any, without measuring PH?

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před rokem +2

      Acid blend ups the acidity in the brew, making a crisper or brighter flavor. How much to add? That's going to vary based on the brew.

  • @johnsnyder6757
    @johnsnyder6757 Před rokem +1

    I started a cider in October, got busy with life and bottled it In January after adding about an oz of sugar per gallon to carbonate. All the numbers looked good, but after 2 or 3 weeks It did not carbonate. Would some yeast hulls have helped prevent that?

    • @CaioKellermann
      @CaioKellermann Před rokem +4

      If you take that long, I normally add a little more yeast a few hours before adding the sugar and bottling. Just to be sure that there's still live yeast in there

  • @yourmetalgod69
    @yourmetalgod69 Před rokem

    Great video!!!!!

  • @chasereed7141
    @chasereed7141 Před rokem +1

    Hi. New to the channel. Gonna try out your apple cidar recipe! What store do you get the glass jug of apple juice? I wanted to get the container and free juice lol

    • @johnshaw6702
      @johnshaw6702 Před rokem +1

      I just got the juice in jug from amazon. It was actually cheaper than buying an empty glass one through them. LOL
      I think one of mine was also from some wine a bought once.

    • @chasereed7141
      @chasereed7141 Před rokem

      @@johnshaw6702 I found it at Publix for like 12 bucks. It's a green wise product. Only issue is they were sold out lol. I'll probably do Amazon as well.

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 8 měsíci

      We used to find them at Publix but not anymore.

  • @gregj1789
    @gregj1789 Před 6 měsíci

    Lots of citrus notes but low acid..that does sound like something not jiving. I recently made a brew too bitter myself by overstepping tea - left the tea in secondary for 10 days…error!

  • @GoranSvettlund
    @GoranSvettlund Před rokem +1

    If dead yeast can be used as nutrients, why don't we pitch like 25 grams of it into 10 liters to make sure there is 0% chance the brew doens't lack nutrients? Cheers!

  • @prplprince8730
    @prplprince8730 Před rokem +1

    Question: has anyone tried using tobacco leaves in a brew? I have no idea what they would do/add to a brew

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před rokem +4

      I had a whiskey with tobacco in it. 0/10 would not recommend.

    • @alexandraengland3274
      @alexandraengland3274 Před rokem +5

      It can make you really sick unfortunately. Not just in a cancer way, but in a sick to your stomach way too or worse. Would not advise. Not worth the risk.

    • @prplprince8730
      @prplprince8730 Před rokem +2

      @@alexandraengland3274 good to know thank you

  • @GoranSvettlund
    @GoranSvettlund Před rokem +2

    First. I AM FIRST!!!!!!!

  • @TheTSense
    @TheTSense Před rokem

    Just now, I came across the craziest thing yet... someone suggested charcoal.
    Just straight up charcoal like the stuff you would need at a BBQ. Crush it and throw it into your mead to make it black and give it a smoky flavor.
    I do like smoky flavor in my meat, but I think this is too much, even for me. Just throw it in at the beginning. Ferment and Age with it.
    Doesn't charcoal kill the yeast? Or you know, you? It isn't eatable, so it surely can't be drinkable?

  • @bigosbro21
    @bigosbro21 Před rokem +1

    When pasteurizing, you leave the bottles open, correct? When do you cork/cap them after pasteurization is done? Assuming you would need to wait foe the temp to come down, but wouldn't open bottles allow for wild yeast to get in and potentially restart fermentation? Sorry, probably not the right video for this question, but you got me thinking about it.

    • @daigledj
      @daigledj Před rokem +2

      Open bottle pasturizing reduces the chance of broken bottles to next to zero (bad bottle could still break but you would probably notice that beforehand). The only time I know of you can't pasturize open would be if it is carbonated since all the CO2 will escape.

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 7 měsíci +1

      Wild yeast from the air are not in high enough concentration to find their way into your pasteurized brew and restart fermentation.

  • @usnclark
    @usnclark Před 4 měsíci

    Have you ever used too much ferm O? I use 6 gal carboys for fermentation and had a slightly used 2 oz pack, threw the whole thing in there before I looked up I was only supposed to use 37 grams. I might be leaving this one in secondary for awhile cause in my mind it should just fall out..... right 🤞

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 4 měsíci +1

      I haven't seen too much ferm-o ever causing issues other than overactive ferm that might blow out subtle flavors... maybe.

  • @Bleideris0
    @Bleideris0 Před 8 měsíci

    So all in all. Do you need them on regular mead batch? Probably not right?

  • @raylebeau9121
    @raylebeau9121 Před rokem

    I had a question about my first brew... I started it 2 months ago. I put in blueberries, craisins, wildflower honey and fleischmann's yeast. I let it sit for a month (I know, not terribly smart to do with the blueberries). Then I racked, not well as there was still a small amount of blueberry bits and some yeast sediment. I let it sit for another month and I just checked it and there seems to be a film of a white wispy substance at the top of it and it has a strong smell. My nose and taste are not really acclimated to brewing yet but every time I've smelled it and tasted it it has seemed a bit harsh, nothing that makes my nostrils burn or anything. Anyway I was reading online that this can be a symptom of bacteria as well as a brew not clearing up, which mine has not. Anyway, I just wanted your opinion as I don't want to dump a perfectly good brew if I don't have to but I will also not be too sad as I have learned so much from this experience, such as following someone else’s steps for your first few brews. So do you think my batch is bad or is it too young, thus the strong taste and smell? Also what do you think the white film is? Thank you so much for your help... ps. the brew after a month was this rosie purple color but now it is this darker brownish purple (don't know if that's important)

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 8 měsíci

      Sounds like a possible brettanomyces infection. That's how they make sour beers and ciders. Not harmful, but will make a sour taste in the brew. Your call whether to ride it our or start over.

  • @Ignivomous
    @Ignivomous Před rokem

    Heylo Brian and Derica! Somewhat newish to the party. I am currently 2 weeks in on your "Beginners Mead" recipe and it is still going well! I have been doing a LOT of research for ideas on future brews and came across "Nutritional Yeast Flakes". The description states it is used as a cheese alternative?? How do you feel about using it as a nutrient?

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před rokem +2

      I wouldn’t. They do have a flavor and that will carry over to your mead.

  • @daveallison3037
    @daveallison3037 Před rokem

    I have a strange question. just started a kit that came with dried grape skins.have any idea who sells them.thanks

  • @Kira-dj8dj
    @Kira-dj8dj Před 9 měsíci

    Hello expert, Can i use Fermentation Aids as a yeast nutrient? Thank you 🙏🏻

  • @Ch1oeW
    @Ch1oeW Před 8 měsíci

    The first time I made mead, I threw a crushed Camden Tablet in with my mead at the same time as my yeast and it all worked out fine 😕 How come!?

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 8 měsíci

      You got lucky. Sometimes yeast can power through preservatives.

  • @user-dx4ig2jj2z
    @user-dx4ig2jj2z Před 9 měsíci

    Is there a big difference in using sodium metabisulfite vs potassium metabisulfite?

  • @briannamarcroft1298
    @briannamarcroft1298 Před rokem

    You mentioned that DAP is something you avoid. Why is that? I am interested in how you decide what you will and will not use. Thanks.

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před rokem +2

      Dap is just not necessary. It’s almost a supercharger for yeast. Too much and you get off flavors and… there are some sources that link it to chronic illnesses in humans. In the past, not on the channel I have tried it and it just didn’t really make sense to me.

  • @ashcreekAER
    @ashcreekAER Před 10 měsíci

    How long does fermaid o usually last? i have some in a ziploc bag in the original packet from a year ago but it has caked. Does fermaid O, "go bad"?

  • @eexner4242
    @eexner4242 Před 4 měsíci

    Potassium Sorbate - do you have to use this? Or can you leave the mead in the carboy with airlock for an excessive amount of time, after racking? I ask because I did this once (I forgot about it for about 4 months, maybe a little longer). We/I did not get sick but I was the only one who liked it (dandelion. After all that work I wasn't about to let it go to waste!). Not sure if it was a mental thing that I liked it.

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 4 měsíci

      We have never used it.

    • @eexner4242
      @eexner4242 Před 4 měsíci

      @@CitySteadingBrews isn’t that what kills the yeast to be able to bottle it sooner, without fear?

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 4 měsíci +1

      It doesn't kill yeast...
      ok. Here's the thing. Yeast win't just keep fermenting forever. They stop when there's nothing more to ferment or reach their alcohol tolerance. If we sweeten afterward, and there's a chance of refermentation, we pasteurize. Just don't want more preservatives in our food.

  • @millerkold
    @millerkold Před 4 měsíci

    I usually pasteurize, have Camden tablets but they're sodium metabisulfite. Have you had experience with that instead of potassium I hear it adds more fart smells

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 4 měsíci

      You need sulfite and sorbate to stabilize

    • @millerkold
      @millerkold Před 4 měsíci

      @@CitySteadingBrews Yes I understand that. I have potassium sorbate, but I see everyone using potassium metabisulfate and I only have a sodium metabisulfite

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 4 měsíci +1

      @millerkold oh, a difference? No idea. We din't use either.

  • @kevintreadaway6769
    @kevintreadaway6769 Před 3 měsíci

    Im starting a batch using ferment o for first time. Strawberry 6 gal must 12 pounds sugar. How much would you add in the begining?

  • @louislu1825
    @louislu1825 Před 10 měsíci

    I used a campton tablet to sterilize and killed wild years from my raspberry and all the color went away and turned beige immediately. I plan to redo this and just heating the raspberry. Later on when i try to back sweeten and use a campton tablet will i lose my color again?

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 10 měsíci

      Why would you use another one?

    • @louislu1825
      @louislu1825 Před 10 měsíci

      @@CitySteadingBrews is there something else I could do during backsweeten to make sure the yeast don’t active?

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 10 měsíci +1

      Oh we pasteurize for that. Camden alone doesn't stop it.

  • @AkuaKamau
    @AkuaKamau Před rokem

    Can you kindly comment on Campden Tablets made of Sodium Metabisulfite versus those made of Potassium Metabisulfite? Any advantages of either? I see where the result is residual Sodium versus Potassium after the 24 hour wait period. Anything else?

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před rokem +2

      Don't use either much to be honest, but they seem equal in dignity.

    • @AkuaKamau
      @AkuaKamau Před rokem

      @@CitySteadingBrews equal in dignity. I like that. Ha ha ha.

  • @jesselee9019
    @jesselee9019 Před 9 měsíci

    I have a question about nutrients, I accidentally added 3 tsp of north mountain to 5 gal late in fermentation on a beer, I have been trying to figure out if I can let it ride or dump. Is it safe?

  • @corywilliamsmith
    @corywilliamsmith Před 3 měsíci

    How much fermaido should one add to a1 gallon batch?

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 3 měsíci

      It really depends on the brew but 3-5g seems to work for most instances.

  • @BobGrimminger
    @BobGrimminger Před rokem

    What's the difference between the different Firmaids?

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před rokem

      Mostly organic vs inorganic and how much nitrogen. We have only used Fermaid-O

  • @braianramos4048
    @braianramos4048 Před rokem

    Its really necessary to add nutrients? Its not enough just yeast, water and honey? Its enough a little amount of orange/lemon juice?

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před rokem +1

      Necessary? Depends on your definition. I believe it makes for better, cleaner fermentation and better tasting end product.

    • @braianramos4048
      @braianramos4048 Před rokem

      @@CitySteadingBrews Ikr but i insist, it's a must or just by adding citric frut juice,tea or raisins it's ok? Do I need more nutriets?

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před rokem

      None of those are nutrients. Can you brew without nutrients? Yes. Will it almost always be improved with nutrients? Also yes.

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před rokem

      Citric juices add acidity and flavor, tea adds tannins, raisins add color, flavor and some sugars. None of those are nutrients.

    • @braianramos4048
      @braianramos4048 Před rokem

      @@CitySteadingBrews It's there any natural nutrients which can I obtain/found easily?

  • @Nefariousrouge
    @Nefariousrouge Před rokem +3

    When you think deeply about it, using yeast hulls is a rather morbid concept. Like saying to the yeast, Feeling lazy? Let me put you in a room full of your dead relatives to motivate you. Now get back to work!

  • @kalin83
    @kalin83 Před rokem

    Hi i have a quastion unrelated to the video. But ill just made a cider and when i added sugar and bottleit i dont seem to get any carbonation. its been going for 2 days and nothing.
    it was from a applejuice concentrate with wineyeast started at 1.046 gravity and i put it in secondary at 1.002. it got to mature and be in secondary for a couple of weeks before i desided to bottle it. this was 2 days ago. it had gone down to 1.000 gravity. cleared out pretty well so i racked it to another container added about 30 grams of sugar to a gallon of cider iwanted to sweetening it and carbonate it at the same time. now its been in bottles for 2 days and pretty much nothing have happened. My question is can i ad a tiny bit of yeast in each bottle or should i rerack it to ad some yeast or should i just wait.

  • @dr.froghopper6711
    @dr.froghopper6711 Před 9 měsíci

    Soooo, do your homework, think clearly, grow a set and jump in feet first! Gotcha! We’ve already begun. Thanks!

  • @monkeyboy8me
    @monkeyboy8me Před 7 měsíci

    So I have to buy benonite . Sparkolid . Yeast nutrient. Campden tablets and potassium sorbate 😅 anything else? Kitchen sink 😂

    • @CitySteadingBrews
      @CitySteadingBrews  Před 7 měsíci

      Who said you have to buy those?

    • @monkeyboy8me
      @monkeyboy8me Před 7 měsíci

      @@CitySteadingBrews no one lol . Im seeing all these powders and yeast stuff and figured im missing out on something to add to my fermentation mead 😂 . Your videos are awesome and have helped me understand a lot

  • @larrydowling5213
    @larrydowling5213 Před rokem

    As per I do not like shopping online where would you recommend finding wine, ciders, and meads making products?