When it comes to adding oak chips to your wine, the recommended amount is generally 3-4 ounces per 5 gallons of red wine or 2 ounces per 5 gallons of white wine. However, since you mentioned that you have 6 gallons of wine, we can adjust the amount accordingly.
For 6 gallons of red wine, you would typically use around 3.6-4.8 ounces of oak chips. It's always better to err on the side of caution and start with a slightly smaller amount, especially if you're unsure of how strong you want the oak flavor to be in your wine. You can always add more oak chips later if desired.
In the case of 6 gallons of white wine, you would typically use around 2.4-3.2 ounces of oak chips. Again, it's always a good idea to start with a smaller amount and taste the wine periodically to determine if you want to add more oak flavor.
Keep in mind that the amount of oak chips you use can also depend on personal preference and the type of wine you're making. Some people prefer a more subtle oak flavor, while others enjoy a more pronounced oak presence. It's always a good idea to experiment and find the balance that suits your taste.
Now, let me share a personal experience with using oak chips in winemaking. I once made a batch of red wine using 6 gallons of grape juice. I decided to go with 4 ounces of oak chips since I wanted a bold oak flavor in my wine. After adding the oak chips to the carboy, I noticed that they initially floated on top. However, after about a week of aging, they gradually sank to the bottom.
Over the course of a few months, I periodically tasted the wine to monitor the oak flavor. I found that the 4 ounces of oak chips provided a rich and complex oak character that I was aiming for. The wine had a smooth and velvety mouthfeel with hints of vanilla and spice from the oak.
Remember, the aging process can vary depending on factors such as temperature and the type of oak chips used. It's important to regularly taste your wine to ensure the oak flavor doesn't overpower the other elements and to make adjustments if needed.
For 6 gallons of wine, you can start with approximately 3.6-4.8 ounces of oak chips for red wine and 2.4-3.2 ounces for white wine. However, personal preference and the desired oak flavor intensity should also be taken into consideration. Happy winemaking!