I racked my elderberry wine last week and ended up with a real sticky amber colored film in my carboy. Bleach wouldn't clean it very easily. It was also on my wine thief after I got some out to check SG. Anyone know what that could be? And perhaps an easy way to clean it?
Thanx
Yes, the infamous elderberry goo - - - you need one of those oil-cutting products, like goo-gone. There's another one on the market, but the name is escaping me right now.
Probably some form of tannin deposit, possibly resin. If soaking in bleach overnight doesn't do anything, try some form of acid (e.g. citric acid or vinegar). If that doesn't help, put a handful of builders sand (the kind used with cement to make concrete) in the carboy, add just enough water to be able to swish it around, and do so. The sand acts like scouring powder, without scratching the glass. Sal soda (washing soda) is also supposed to be very good, but I've never tried it.
If an "oil-cutting" product will work, WD-40 will work, as will mineral spirits. Ammonia may also work. In each case, the carboy must be washed out thoroughly with hot soapy water, and rinsed at least three times after using, since these substances are toxic.
De-Solve-It, available at Walmart, for one.... I haven't seen it, or looked for it at any other place.
It cut right through the elderberry goo when I made my batch, both on my utensils, strainer, primary, and carboy.
Rick
Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.
Ask the community — no account required