To increase the specific gravity in wine, there are a few methods you can employ. One common way is by adding sugar to the wine. This can be done using corn sugar or invert sugar, both of which can easily increase the gravity. The amount of sugar you need to add will depend on the initial gravity reading and the specific gravity you wish to achieve.
To calculate the amount of sugar needed, you first need to take an initial gravity reading. This can be done using a hydrometer, which measures the density of the liquid. Once you have the initial gravity reading, you can subtract it from the specific gravity you want to begin with. The difference will determine approximately how much sugar you need to add.
Here is a table that can help you determine the amount of sugar to add based on the desired specific gravity increase:
Specific Gravity Increase Sugar to Add (per gallon)
0.005 2 ounces
0.010 4 ounces
0.015 6 ounces
0.020 8 ounces
0.025 10 ounces
For example, let's say your initial gravity reading is 1.050, and you want to increase it to 1.070. The desired gravity increase would be 0.020 (1.070 – 1.050). According to the table, you would need to add 8 ounces of sugar per gallon of wine.
When adding sugar to wine, it is important to dissolve it completely to ensure even distribution. You can do this by dissolving the sugar in warm water before adding it to the wine. Start with a small amount of water, gradually adding sugar and stirring until fully dissolved. Then, carefully pour the sugar solution into the wine while stirring gently.
It's important to note that adding sugar to wine will not only increase the specific gravity but also increase the potential alcohol content. The yeast will ferment the added sugar during the fermentation process, resulting in a higher alcohol percentage in the finished wine.
Increasing the specific gravity in wine can be achieved by adding sugar. By using the table provided and calculating the desired gravity increase, you can determine the amount of sugar to add. Just remember to dissolve the sugar completely and handle it with care to ensure proper mixing.