I started a kit wine tonight (sauvignon blanc). This is the first time I've used bentonite. I also have a batch of pear wine that just went into the secondary fermenter. It is very cloudy. Can I add bentonite help settle out the pulp?
Yes, you can but wait, wait, wait. If bontonite does strip flavinoids (sp? and does it truly?), why not wait and see if it does clear itself? Six to nine months - that is al I ask.
Correct me if I'm wrong.... Kits, like the Cellar Master 28 day ones, use bentonite for clarification. I think they are just trying to help clarify the wine as best as possible as fast as possible, since these are quick wines. When I make a fruit wine, I usually end up leaving it in the carboy for a long time, since these wines generally need to be aged longer. This extended time in the carboy results in gravity naturally clearing the wine. Since you are so early on, I wouldn't add bentonite.
I make pear wine every year -- got about 20 gal in secondary now. I've never used bentonite, or any other fining agent. Just let it sit for a few months, and it should clear just fine.
Bart
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