Adding Tannin to every Mead at Must time provides many benefits. First of all it adds a little needed astringency to mead that provides additional character/complexity. This can also be done with strong brewed tea but is much eaiser to be more consistant with a measure of Grape Tannin (1/2t per gallon). Grape tannin is natural and is not artificially made. It comes from the skins and seeds of grape and is foundd in powdered form. It is believed even to have health benefits by many. It can be added easily by mixing it in 4 oz of hot water to help dissolve it prior to adding to must. The tannin will darken the mead ever so slightly. In addition to the character it adds, tannin most definitely aids in clearing. The tannin will work as a clarifying agent, causing suspended solids to stick to it and slowly settle to the bottom. Of nearly 30 batches only one batch did not naturally clear in a short time.
If you haven't yet tried grape tannin, I would highly recommend 1/2t added to at least your straight meads. I'm sure you will be satisfied with the effects it offers. With this amount it does not add to aging times.
Regards,
Joe (Member of the Grape Tanners Association) ;D Just Kidding.. No affiliation whatsoever.
If you haven't yet tried grape tannin, I would highly recommend 1/2t added to at least your straight meads. I'm sure you will be satisfied with the effects it offers. With this amount it does not add to aging times.
Regards,
Joe (Member of the Grape Tanners Association) ;D Just Kidding.. No affiliation whatsoever.