Degassing cider?

[mikejamesnelson]

I have recently started making some meads, and have learned that mead needs to be degassed during fermentation. I was wondering if anybody has ever tried this with a cider. Or is the possibility of oxidizing the cider too great.

 

[Fletch78]

I don't know, but I'm doing another batch this weekend and I'm going to treat it like a mead.. with nutrients and degassing. If you are patient enough... I'll answer your question. So far, I've just fermented cider like beer and always get the sulphur smell without aging.

 

[Papagayo]

Degassing is not necessary with cider in my opinion, and the risk of oxidation is way too high.

What I do think is key is allowing for a secondary fermentation and letting the cider mature. Some like to let it sit for a year before drinking. I never have that kind of patience, but I can often wait a few months and it's worth it.

 

[oldmate]

I've never once had an oxidation problem. I degas if I feel like it usually, has never made much difference in the long run.

 

[mikejamesnelson]

when you degas the cider, how much faster would you say that it is drinkable, ie. It looses any kind of off flavor?