Sulfites

[jeskremer]

When to add
Early in the wine process – even if the recipe does not call for it.

Form
Campden tablets (sodium metabisulfate) or potassium metabisulfate

Dosage
1 tablet/gallon or ¼ tsp potassium metabisulfate/5 gallons (DO NOT OVER INDULGE) better to have less than more.

Purpose
1. Fills the spaces between solid/liquid molecules with sulfur dioxide to get rid of space for oxygen to oxidate (which destroys) the wine.

2. Slows the tendency of whites to turn brown and reds to turn brickish color

3. Inhibits the wild yeast growth early on to allow cultured yeasts complete dominance.