How do you cap a bottle with a capper?

Answered by Joseph Vos

Capping a bottle with a capper is a simple and straightforward process that ensures a tight seal, preserving the contents of your homemade brew. As an experienced sommelier and brewer, I have used various types of cappers, but one that stands out is the Ferrari Bench Capper. Allow me to guide you through the steps of capping a bottle with this reliable tool.

1. Prepare your bottles: Before capping, ensure that your bottles are clean and sanitized. Any residue or contamination can affect the quality of your brew. I recommend using a bottle brush and sanitizing solution to thoroughly clean the bottles.

2. Prepare your caps: Check that your bottle caps are in good condition and free from any defects. It's essential to use high-quality caps to achieve a proper seal. Inspect the rubber lining inside the caps to ensure they are intact and functional.

3. Position the Ferrari Bench Capper: Place the Ferrari Bench Capper on a stable surface, such as a countertop or table, ensuring it is secure and won't wobble during the capping process. This capper is known for its durability and stability, making it a reliable choice.

4. Adjust the height: The Ferrari Bench Capper features an adjustable height mechanism, allowing you to accommodate different bottle sizes. Adjust the height of the capper to match the bottle you are capping. This feature is particularly useful when working with various bottle sizes in one batch.

5. Place the bottle: Take a sanitized bottle and position it under the capper. Ensure that the bottle is centered and stable, as any movement during the capping process can lead to an improper seal.

6. Position the cap: Place a sanitized bottle cap on top of the bottle. Make sure the cap is centered and aligned with the bottle opening. It's crucial to handle the caps with clean hands or sanitized utensils to prevent contamination.

7. Engage the capper: With the bottle and cap in place, engage the capper by pulling down the lever or handle. The Ferrari Bench Capper utilizes a lever arm design, providing leverage and making the capping process effortless. Apply steady pressure to ensure a secure and tight seal.

8. Verify the seal: After capping, check the bottle to ensure a proper seal. Gently lift the bottle by the cap to confirm that it is securely attached. If there is any movement or resistance, it indicates an improper seal. In such cases, re-cap the bottle using a new cap and repeat the process.

9. Repeat the process: Continue capping the remaining bottles in your batch, following the same steps outlined above. Take your time and ensure each bottle is properly sealed before moving on to the next one.

The Ferrari Bench Capper is widely regarded as one of the best options for homebrewers due to its durability and ease of use. Its adjustable height feature and reliable capping mechanism make it a popular choice among enthusiasts. Personally, I have used this capper for years and have always been satisfied with its performance.

Remember, proper capping is crucial for maintaining the freshness and quality of your homemade brew. By following these steps and using a trusted capper like the Ferrari Bench Capper, you can ensure a tight seal and enjoy your brew for months to come.