8 replies to this topic

[cathykw]

Hello,
I broke my hydrometer, and I used my refractometer to determine the beginning sugar content of my juice (used brix to SG calculator and it came out to 1.091 Specific gravity). But, it seems that the secondary fermentation might be done (no bubbles in the last couple of days), and the brix is still at 8 which would put the SG at 1.032. This is an RJ Spagnol Cellar Classic old vine zinfindel kit, so it really should be down to 0.995 or so at the end of the secondary fermentation. The kit also says secondary fermentation will last three weeks, and I'm only around day ten.

My question is this: Can a refractometer tell me when the S.G. is 0.995? Or do I really need a hydrometer for this?

-Cathy

[Tomer1]

Did you use a compensation table to compensate the alcohol in solution?

[cathykw]

No, I did not use a compensation table. How do I do that?

[cathykw]

I found a calculator online that compensates, and it says it is 0.997 - so looks like I might be done after all!!!

THANKS for letting me know about the compensation - I didn't realize this was necessary.

So, as long as I do the compensation, is there any reason I need a hydrometer? Or can I pretty much use my refractometer for everything?

[bushrinker]

This is a good question and I hope people chime in because I'd like to know what the capabilities of my refractor is. I know it worked great with a thick must like my peach mango. It would have been a bite to try and get enough juice to float a hydrometer. I never heard of a compensation table. I will have to look that one up. My refractor didn't really come with good instructions and I haven't done my research yet on how to exactly use it. I know I have heard it does not work on a working ferment that is where the hydrometer will come in. Someone correct me if I'm wrong on that one.

[Hammered]

So, as long as I do the compensation, is there any reason I need a hydrometer? Or can I pretty much use my refractometer for everything?

I'd recommend getting a good triple scale hydrometer (or two) so you can calibrate your refractometer. They can get off very dramatically and give you incorrect information unless you calibrate them frequently and the best way to calibrate them is with a reliable hydrometer. I usually use hydrometers in the winery and save the refractometer for use in the vineyards.

[bushrinker]

Cathy could you please post the website you used for your comp. table?

[cathykw]

Here is the website I used for the compensation:

http://hickorybrewer...ion-calculator/

[sal]

go to www.valleyvintner.com. go to bottom of home page, click on "tips and links" browse down page to topic of using refractometers instead of hydrometer,click . the new page explains the test that were accomplished to verify the compensation, the fromula is also displayed. A spread sheet is also available for download.I use the sheet for all of my fermentations, I monitor the fermentation each day to insure fermentation is complete. Also use to add nutrients(fermaid-k) at the proper time. I retain the file along with my fermentation log. You can claibrate the refractometer each day with distilled water. It is easier if you have a digital refractometer both the other will do. Good luck