When it comes to making a 3-gallon batch of mead, the general rule of thumb is to use one packet of yeast. Since the batch size is smaller than the usual 5-gallon batches, you won't need as much yeast to ferment the mead effectively. Using two packets of yeast, as you would for a 5-gallon batch, may be unnecessary and could potentially lead to over-pitching.
Over-pitching, or using too much yeast, can have some negative effects on your mead. It can result in a faster and more vigorous fermentation, which may not be ideal for certain mead styles. Additionally, over-pitching can lead to a depletion of nutrients in the must, as the yeast population may grow too quickly and consume nutrients at a faster rate.
To ensure a healthy fermentation in your 3-gallon batch, using one packet of dry yeast should be sufficient. Dry yeast packets typically contain enough yeast cells to ferment a 5-gallon batch, so using one packet for a smaller batch size is appropriate. Just make sure to rehydrate the yeast properly according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
In terms of nutrient additions, it's also important to adjust the amount based on the batch size. Since you're making a 3-gallon batch, using half the amount of nutrients compared to your 5-gallon batches is a reasonable approach. This adjustment takes into account the smaller yeast population and the reduced nutrient requirements.
However, it's worth noting that the specific nutrient requirements can vary depending on the mead recipe, yeast strain, and desired outcome. It's always a good idea to consult the specific nutrient guidelines provided by the yeast manufacturer or seek advice from experienced meadmakers.
In my personal experience, I have successfully made 3-gallon batches of mead using one packet of yeast and adjusting the nutrient additions accordingly. The fermentation process proceeded smoothly, and the resulting mead turned out well. So, based on my own experiences and the general guidelines, using one packet of yeast and half the nutrients for a 3-gallon batch should work effectively.