I just made up a one allon batch of mead and am going to falvor with vanilla. I have one 1 1/2 to 2 inch bean. Should i split and scrape it when i rack it over or just drop it in.
yes, split it and scrape it...I usually drop the scrapings and bean parts into a shot of vodka and let it soak for a minute or two, then chuck it all in...
I just put mine into a coffee grinder before dumping my seasonings into the must. I figure the flavors will extract faster if the pieces are smaller. The foam is leaving a ring of seasoning specks at the top. xD