newbie questions about sweetening

[chickypad]

I did try searching but got conflicting or confusing info, if someone wouldn't mind spelling things out for a newb:

1) If I plan to keg and never let the cider get above 40*, is this enough to inhibit the yeast so I can sweeten it? Some sources still talk about stabilizing first. I've made a couple ciders so far with ale yeast (notty and 05), and one with WL775 English cider yeast (lists temp range 68-75*).

2) If I do choose to stabilize what is the correct dose of potassium sorbate? I've seen things like 1/4 tsp per gal, 1/2 tsp per gal - can anyone give the dose in grams? And then is it one campden tab per gallon added to it? My campden tabs are 0.6g each.

3) Do I need to dissolve the sorbate and campden in something or just add them to the racking vessel and rack the cider on top (obviously crushing the campden first)? Will they dissolve okay with just a gentle stir? I assume like beer I should avoid oxygenating it. Do I need to let it sit any length of time before I sweeten?

Thanks guys.

 

[Yooper]

I did try searching but got conflicting or confusing info, if someone wouldn't mind spelling things out for a newb:

1) If I plan to keg and never let the cider get above 40*, is this enough to inhibit the yeast so I can sweeten it? Some sources still talk about stabilizing first. I've made a couple ciders so far with ale yeast (notty and 05), and one with WL775 English cider yeast (lists temp range 68-75*).

2) If I do choose to stabilize what is the correct dose of potassium sorbate? I've seen things like 1/4 tsp per gal, 1/2 tsp per gal - can anyone give the dose in grams? And then is it one campden tab per gallon added to it? My campden tabs are 0.6g each.

3) Do I need to dissolve the sorbate and campden in something or just add them to the racking vessel and rack the cider on top (obviously crushing the campden first)? Will they dissolve okay with just a gentle stir? I assume like beer I should avoid oxygenating it. Do I need to let it sit any length of time before I sweeten?

Thanks guys.

1. Probably. But it isn't guaranteed!
2. It depends on the brand- mine is 1/2 teaspoon per gallon
3. yes, dissolve both the campden and sorbate in a little water. i generally let it sit a few days but it may not be strictly necessary