Freezing fresh cider

[NicoleBrewer]

So I have a tree full of apples, and want to get a couple other varieties to blend with mine since they are sweet but bland. I also have a baby and 2 year old so I don't have the time to take a full day crushing apples and pressing juice. I was thinking of pressing little bits at a time and freezing the juice in zip lock freezer bags till I eventually have enough to ferment. My question is will this change the outcome? Also will this eliminate the need to either heat, or use Camden tablets to sterilize?

 

[WVMJ]

No, freezing doesnt sanitize, neither does it break up pectinase. WVMJ

 

[madscientist451]

Are the apples coming down off the tree yet? If they are, Its probably time to pick them. Early apples don't keep well but later ones usually won't go bad for a while if you can keep them cool. I did an experiment last year after the first freeze and picked frozen apples , let them thaw (but not all the way) and then put them right in the press without grinding. It worked pretty good, so if you have a big freezer that could be an option for you.

 

[NicoleBrewer]

It takes a lot of apples and time to press a decent sized batch. I have a small food processor and a small cider press. I don't have that time in one straight shot. So is it possible to freeze the fresh cider in batches over days or weeks till I have enough to ferment?

 

[phug]

Yes, I've fermented before from cider that was frozen fresh until I could get around to it. Only a few weeks old but I don't see why you couldn't extend that

 

[hudsoncider]

I have successfully frozen over 15 gallons of fresh pressed apple juice for 6 months and then brewed from the juice. You will be fine and it is actually a good idea. A chest freezer comes in handy. Just remember to allow for expansion of the liquid when frozen.