I've found a source for unpasteurized cider and am going to pick up a bunch in the next week or so. I've always used fresh pressed pasteurized cider until now so I need some advice about exactly how to use potassium metibisulfite. I know the rule of thumb is 1 tablet per gallon, but I just read a thread on here where someone was saying they aren't necessary and that if you do use them you only need "half(though they didn't say what that was) the usual amount" I'm planning on using 5.5 gallons per batch so I was thinking either 5 or 6 tablets would be good. Also do you put water in the airlock? I understand that the sulfite has to dissipate but I don't know if an airlock is advised. I'd prefer to have an airlock on so nothing can get in. I'm excited about finally trying unpasteurized juice but I don't wanna make vinegar or something that has a sulfite taste. The person in the thread says you need to age for months to have the sulfite taste wear off but I plan on having these bottled fairly quickly after a short secondary. Also are you supposed to add more Campden tabs when you transfer to secondary? Hoping a few people can give their advice.
Thanks in advance!
Thanks in advance!