As an experienced sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that carboys are indeed much larger and have a greater capacity than demijohns. While both carboys and demijohns are commonly used vessels in the world of winemaking and brewing, their sizes and volumes differ significantly.
1. Carboys: Carboys are large glass or plastic containers used for fermenting and aging beverages such as wine, beer, or mead. These vessels typically have a capacity ranging from 5 to 6 gallons (19 to 23 liters) but can sometimes be even larger. Carboys are usually cylindrical in shape, with a narrow neck and a wide body, allowing for easy handling and storage. The larger size of carboys makes them suitable for bulk fermentation and aging, especially for larger batches of beverages.
2. Demijohns: Demijohns, on the other hand, are smaller glass containers typically used for storing and aging smaller quantities of beverages. These vessels usually hold around 1 to 5 gallons (4 to 19 liters) of liquid, making them ideal for small-batch experiments or for those who prefer to make limited quantities of wine or beer. Demijohns also have a distinctive shape, often resembling a rounded flask or bottle, with a wider body and a shorter neck compared to carboys.
I personally have used both carboys and demijohns in my winemaking and brewing endeavors. When I wanted to experiment with different flavors or test out new recipes, demijohns were perfect for smaller batches. However, when it came to producing larger quantities or allowing wines and beers to age gracefully, carboys were my go-to choice.
In addition to their size differences, it's worth noting that carboys and demijohns can also vary in terms of the material they are made from. While glass is a common material for both, carboys can also be found in food-grade plastic, which offers advantages such as being lighter and less prone to breakage. However, glass carboys are generally preferred for long-term aging due to their inert nature and ability to prevent oxygen ingress.
To summarize, carboys are significantly larger than demijohns, with capacities typically ranging from 5 to 6 gallons compared to the 1 to 5-gallon capacity of demijohns. The choice between the two vessels depends on the scale of production, desired batch size, and intended purpose.