Freezing blueberries

Hi Mike. If you're using them right away, there's no need to freeze them (is that part of your question? I read that as.... do I need to freeze the berries before I can use them?). If that's not the case, then there is no problem in freezing them and keeping them for later use. Wash them first, and I destem, but not all would bother.

What would the difference be with the inclusion of stems - can anyone clarify?

Thanks!

Should I freeze my fresh blueberries before using them?

YES! Freezing breaks down the skin. I always freeze any fresh fruit prior to adding them to primary. Tom

Some people like to freeze them first as freezing breaks down the tissue so you might get better yield of flavor or whatever. It is not essential. It is a style issue.

Ray

Oops, sorry for the double post.

personally, when i do get around to using fruit i'll freeze it before fermenting it. that way the cells will be a little more broken up and the colors and flavors will be more accessible.

at least, that's my big theory. =)

i don't think you even have to, though. freezing will definitely do something to the flavor, will definitely alter the flavor a little.

Saul Sabia saul_sabia@yaho[o].com

Hmmmmm, wondering - would pectolaze not aid in the same thing?

There's no reason not to, but it isn't essential.

Tom S

You're right. Hard fruits though, like Rhubarb, really soften up nicely, after freezing and thawing before making wine. Darlene