Extra headspace after racking.

[deewilliam17]

I'm new to making mead and my first batch (one gallon) is going to have a lot of headspace after I rack it. It this a problem? Can I top it off with a honey/water mix and if so, what would be the proper ratio?
Thanks for any help/advice!

 

[stophopandroll]

I use spring water to top off in my secondary..my tap water has cloramine so I cant boil to declorinate and wife is sensitive to sulfites so no campden..and on a gallon batch just a pinch of yeast nutrient is always good.

 

[Arpolis]

If you too up with honey and water then you run the risk of re-starting fermentation. That will collect more sediment making you rack again and then you are at the same spot you are at now.

If you can you can add 1 crushed Camden tablet and 1/2 tsp of sorbate. Wait 24 hours and then add your honey water mix. That will keep the yeast from multiplying any more and you can feel free to add your honey/water mix.

For the ratio of honey to water I like to keep it close the ratio I used when I first started the mead. Or if stabilizing as shown above all add honey to the taste or gravity I want then just top off with water.