How to tell when its done

[kevinstan]

After all I have read I still can't figure out something for a solid answer. I have read of people making cider and finishing it in 3 days, 5 days, 7 days - and so on. I am wondering what is a sure way and easiest way to tell its ready to be racked and cold crashed.

I plan on cold crashing, then back sweetening and drinking.

If I wait on the airlock to stop it will be wine by then right ?

Please help. Thanks !

 

[hellpatrol]

easiest way is let it ferment for 2 or more weeks, it will start slowing way down and clearing. rack to secondary and let it sit for another couple weeks. no cold crashing necessary this way. back sweeten, bottle and let it carb.

letting it ferment out doesnt determine if its wine or not

 

[tristan1220]

If your just looking to get drunk on home made cider, which I am sometimes. Once the bubbles stop coming your good to go. It will be dry and taste a bit rough. NOT IN A BAD WAY. Then you can drink right away or back sweeten to your liking. I find a simple syrup made with brown sugar works very well.

Personally I make a 5 gallon batch and just let that one sit for weeks. I also make 2 one gallon batches for me to drink ASAP or experiment with.