Abv

[Abrayton]

Hi,
I brewed my first batch of kit beer on Wed and set aside one gallon in a glass carboy that is fermenting nicely. It is a honey witbier and my plan is to add extra honey to the one gallon to increase ABV. When would be the ideal time to add the extra honey? It has been fermenting for about three days.
Thanks!

 

[JimRausch]

Now is a good time because you have a strong active fermentation that should be starting to slow down.
How much honey are you planning to add?

 

[Abrayton]

I was thinking six to eight oz?

 

[JimRausch]

I was just trying to look up the ppg for honey, and so far not having any luck. When I add it to my 5G batches of beer to boost the ABV, I'm assuming about 8 additional gravity points per pound. So doing the math(warning, math is not my strong suit) then 1 lb. in 1 gallon would increase your SG by 40 points. Probably more than you're looking for.
If I'm correct, then 4oz. honey would increase the ABV in 1G by 1.25%. If I'm not correct, then I'm sure someone will tell me I'm full of it......

 

[Abrayton]

Thanks! I just shot from the hip and added about six oz to one gallon. if anyone thinks I should add more let me know. If less...oops!

 

[JimRausch]

Experimentation is the soul of Homebrewing!
What ABV was the original kit supposed to come in at?
With an additional 6 oz. of honey in a 1g batch you just boosted it by somewhere around 2%.(ie. 5% to 7%). Do you want more? Then kick it up! But, remember at some point, it won't be a witbier but an alcohol bomb. Happy experimentation!

 

[Abrayton]

Tasted my first bottle and it is awesome! Planning a full batch of the same. Thanks for the help!