Why does my kit contain Bentonite and what is it?
Bentonite is a gray, clay granule that is used in wines as a clarifier. It possess a negative electrostatic charge. This attracting charge along with hydrogen bonding, causes suspended particles in the wine to cling to it as it settles to the bottom of the container. It is usually added at the beginning of the fermentation process. Q: My instructions say I need to de-gas the wine. What is degassing and why must I do it? A: The de-gassing process occurs at the end of the fermentation process when you add your packets of potassium metabisulphite and sorbate. Degassing is simply a vigorous stirring for several minutes. It is a necessary step which will eliminate the excess carbon dioxide bubbles from the wine. Q: My instructions say I need to top up my carboy. What does that mean exactly? A: Once the juice has fermented into alcohol it is important that it is keep it away from air. Therefore, it is not desirable to have a large gap between the top of the carboy and the wine’s surface. We
