I just started my second batch of cider using 4184 Sweet Mead Yeast. My first batch started @1.086 plus 4 cans of FAJC. It finished @1.002 and a little over 12% ABV. I made a 3 step starter and less than 12 hours after pitching there were solid bubbles. This time I am making another starter but I will split it and put the 1/2 left over back in the fridge until I start the next batch. I added 1/8 tsp. of Fermaid O, and 1/8 tsp DAP to a 1.080 starter and less than 2 hours later the yeast was going crazy.
I fermented the first batch @65-68 * F and the bulk of the fermenting was done in the first 7-10 days. I left town for a week and the fermentation was done by the time we got back. I will use the same recipe this time as I did last time and I hope to get the same results. I have read a lot of people are having trouble with 4184 and it not finishing, and I can't guess why it is happening.