jgmillr1
Well-Known Member
So, I've read a number of posts here where folks report trouble getting blueberry wine to ferment. Given this chatter, I decided it best to run a bench trial before going for a larger batch. I bought 30# of frozen Michigan blueberries and have a small batch going along. I have no idea what species of blueberry they are.
I calibrated the pH meter and measured the juice to be 3.72, with the TA at 4.5. Given these numbers, I added 1g/L of citric acid to increase the TA and lower the pH to a safer level. (The high pH probably explains why I've tasted so many oxidized blueberry wines out there.) I boosted sugar to 21 brix, added pectic enzyme & sulfites and innoculated with properly rehydrated RC212 yeast. I did not add any significant amounts of water. Two days later, the must was down to 14 brix and I added DAP along with some bentonite. Still fermenting like a champ now. Plan to press soon.
Anyway, I've encountered absolutely no problems getting blueberries to ferment which makes me curious as to what problems others have had with blueberry wine. Figured I could share what I did and the numbers I've measured in the must, for reference. I'll give updates as it proceeds.
I calibrated the pH meter and measured the juice to be 3.72, with the TA at 4.5. Given these numbers, I added 1g/L of citric acid to increase the TA and lower the pH to a safer level. (The high pH probably explains why I've tasted so many oxidized blueberry wines out there.) I boosted sugar to 21 brix, added pectic enzyme & sulfites and innoculated with properly rehydrated RC212 yeast. I did not add any significant amounts of water. Two days later, the must was down to 14 brix and I added DAP along with some bentonite. Still fermenting like a champ now. Plan to press soon.
Anyway, I've encountered absolutely no problems getting blueberries to ferment which makes me curious as to what problems others have had with blueberry wine. Figured I could share what I did and the numbers I've measured in the must, for reference. I'll give updates as it proceeds.