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Brewco Acid Reducer 100g

Brewco Acid Reducer 100g

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Ensuring the right balance of acid at the start of fermentation is the first step to success.

Wines
Most wines fall around a pH reading of 3 or 4. For white wines, a  desirable reading is a pH of approximately 3.2, while the best pH for red wines is around 3.6.

Ciders:
It is important that the acidity of the juice has the correct pH. The ideal pH reading for cider is between 3.2 – 3.6. A weaker acid content of pH 4.0 or above can lead to flavour problems and make the juice more prone to bacterial infection.

If your juice has too much acid, you will need to reduce it so that you get a nice healthy fermentation and have a better tasting drink.

Acid Reducer is a fine powder of Calcium Carbonate (Precipitated  Chalk) that is added to the Wine or Cider, at a  starting rate of 7g per gallon.  This will reduce the acidity by around 1.5 ppt (part per thousand). When added, it will release CO2 (carbon dioxide) as a gas as it neutralises the acid and it may also foam up, so ensure there is sufficient head space in the container before adding. Sometimes this can also produce sediment as the acid is neutralised so if added to a finished Wine or Cider, leave it in a cold place for one week to allow any acid crystals to fall out as sediment.

Precipitated Chalk
How to Use
Dose
7g per gallon
(4.5 litres)
Effect
-1.5ppt acidity
per 7g dose
Pack treats
About 14 gallons
100g

Used for: Lowering excess acidity in wine. The calcium carbonate neutralises acid as it fizzes.

When: When a test shows the must or wine is too acidic - ideally before fermentation.

Step by step
1Weigh out 7g for each gallon (4.5 litres) you want to treat.
2Make sure there's plenty of headspace - it foams as it works.
3Mix the chalk into a little of the wine, then stir it back into the batch.
4Re-test the acidity before adding any more.
Good to know: Too much makes wine taste flat or chalky - add in small steps and test as you go.
You may also need: All treatments & nutrients
Frequently Asked Questions
What does precipitated chalk do in wine?

It's calcium carbonate. It reacts with the acid in an over-sharp must or wine, releasing CO2 and bringing the acidity down.

How much do I use?

7g per gallon (4.5 litres) lowers acidity by about 1.5ppt. Add in small steps and re-test - too much leaves wine tasting flat or chalky.

Why does it foam?

Neutralising the acid releases carbon dioxide, so leave plenty of headspace and stir it in gently.

Can I add it to finished wine?

Yes, but it's best before fermentation. If you treat a finished wine, leave it somewhere cold for a week so any crystals drop out before racking.