Procedures and discussion

Many of the procedures discussed in this section should be carried out at certain temperatures. Note the temperature of the surroundings and/or solutions to make sure procedures are carried out as recommended.

It is also important to measure and weigh out materials correctly with measuring spoons and/or an accurate balance or a digital scale. The Weights and Measures section will help you determine amounts. Most of the kits and chemicals you buy for home winemaking will have the detailed instructions included either on the label or on a separate paper. Keep the instructions in a safe place and make sure labels do not become damaged. Clear packing tape applied over chemical labels will keep them clean and dry.

Remember to keep records of how much material you add to each container of wine and when you perform a particular procedure. It is a good idea to put masking tape on each carboy or container of wine and note each treatment and date on the tape. Remembering what you did to a particular batch may not seem difficult, but you may be surprised and confused later on if you don’t record the procedures your performed.