2 Gallon Batch in a 5 Gallon Fermenter

[Buckwilde]

Hi, I was planning a two gallon batch for my first attempt at cider. I only have a 5 gallon fermenter (Speidel 20L), however. Is there any concern about oxidation (or other) with that much open headspace in my fermenter? I will be opening the fermenter from time to time to check SG.

Thanks,

Ted - Denver

 

[aurora_colony_cider]

This won't be an issue in the primary fermentation. As the yeast produces Co2 that will force the o2 out through the valve on top of your fermentor.

However, in secondary it's very important to have little or no head space in your vessel as you don't want o2 contacting your cider. Use a two gallon carboy or sparge, aka gas flushing, the oxygen out of your speidel using co2 from a tank, if such a thing is handy for you.

I hope that helps.

R.