On Feb 8, 12:13*pm, "Lum Eisenman" > wrote:
> "Wayne Harris" > wrote in message
>
> ...
>
>
>
>
>
> > Well, I think i ruined my first batch.
>
> > Winexpert Kit wine. Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon.
>
> > In step 1, I read "cover" the wine. * I read that to mean cover it and
> > put an airlock on it. *why? i dunno.
>
> > Then, *I started reading. *I learned of aerobic and anaerobic
> > fermenation, and realized that by sealing the wine at initial
> > fermentation, I basically deprived it of the aerobic fermentation
> > phase.
>
> > Its now in the secondary (anaerobic) fermentation phase, and less than
> > 1 day after transfering to carboy, all bubbling has ceased. *hmmm
>
> > I noticed that the instructions in this phase specifically call for
> > the sealing with an airlock. *That makes sense.
>
> > So, the question is, *do i dump this batch and chalk it up to a rookie
> > mistake?
> > -Wayne
>
> Wayne,
> A significant amount of oxygen dissolves in juice when grapes are crushed or
> when a recipe is put together. *This dissolved oxygen often provides an
> adequate yeast population to complete fermentation.
> Good luck with your wine,
> Lum- Hide quoted text -
>
> - Show quoted text -

As a follow-up, I racked this batch this weekend. (first racking).
SG is .996. (down 2 more points)
Also, I sampled it. It was clear (ish)
It's taste was not horrible. It was not full, and was very very young
(obviously). But, it was drinkable.
I will rack it 2 or 3 more times in the next 8 months, then bottle.

Thank all who encouraged me to save this batch.