Winemakers? When do I...

[Donoroto]

A winemaking kit is nearly done in its primary fermentation. The instructions say 'once fermentation is done - the SG is below 0.998 - then rack to secondary and add these things to help clarify it.'

My tilt says SG is 0.987, but it hasn't hit stable SG yet.

Do I wait, or rack it while it still has a little to go?

 

[Zambi]

I didn't even have a hydrometer when I was making wine
You're not bottling yet, so yeah, I would just transfer it

 

[The Brew Mentor]

A winemaking kit is nearly done in its primary fermentation. The instructions say 'once fermentation is done - the SG is below 0.998 - then rack to secondary and add these things to help clarify it.'

My tilt says SG is 0.987, but it hasn't hit stable SG yet.

Do I wait, or rack it while it still has a little to go?

How long has it been since you started?
If it isn't stable, I'd wait

 

[Donoroto]

Ok, wait for stable readings. Just like beer. Thanks

 

[The Brew Mentor]

Ok, wait for stable readings. Just like beer. Thanks

I typically go a minimum of 2 weeks in primary and then verify that I'm between .992 and .996 with no activity.
Then Stabilize.

 

[Donoroto]

I typically go a minimum of 2 weeks in primary and then verify that I'm between .992 and .996 with no activity.
Then Stabilize.

It's been over 2 weeks. But SG is still dithering. I can wait a couple days.

 

[The Brew Mentor]

What temp and yeast?
Was this a kit?

 

[Donoroto]

Lalvin and 70F. Kit.
It's been stable for over a day now, so I'll move it to secondary and fine it today.

 

[The Brew Mentor]

Lalvin and 70F. Kit.
It's been stable for over a day now, so I'll move it to secondary and fine it today.

If it was EC-1118, I'm sure it's done.
Check it with a hydrometer

 

[Donoroto]

If it was EC-1118, I'm sure it's done.
Check it with a hydrometer

I have a tilt for that. It was done.

 

[The Brew Mentor]

I have a tilt for that. It was done.

Sorry, I don't trust those

 

[Donoroto]

Sorry, I don't trust those

I don't care what the FG is, just that it is not changing. They are excellent for that. Terrible at showing actual FG, I agree.

I mean, I didn't bother measuring the OG, and don't care what the ABV might be. It Will Be Wine.