What does Sparkolloid powder do?

Sparkolloid is a proprietary fining agent which is effective against a wide range of hazes. Sparkolloid carries a positive charge and thus combines with negatively charged particles, removing them from the wine. It should only be used on wine which has been racked at least one time.

Does Sparkolloid remove flavor?

If you fine with Sparkolloid® to clarify, you may also alter the aroma and flavor. If you fine with egg whites to reduce astringency, you may also take out desirable color characteristics. Over-fining with gelatin can leave a wine “stripped” and lacking in character.

What is Sparkolloid made of?

Sparkolloid is a fining agent developed by Scott Laboratories for clarification. It is a blend of polysaccharides in a diatomaceous earth carrier and has a strong positive charge.

Does Sparkolloid stop fermentation?

The worst part about it is that it takes a long time to clear. To get a clear product faster, I tried my hand at adding Sparkolloid when there was probably about 10 gravity points left in fermentation. About 8 hours after the addition, it appears that fermentation slowed significantly, nearly stopping.

Is Sparkolloid safe?

Cold Mix Sparkolloid NF® is G.R.A.S. (Generally Recognized As Safe) and is listed in 26CFR240. 1051 (U.S. Wine Regulations) for use up to 4.0#/1000gal. Laboratory Trials are highly recommended before use in the winery.

Can you use Sparkolloid in beer?

Sparkolloid is a fining agent used for clarification of beer and wine. It will neutralize the repelling charge of particles in liquid, allowing the particles to aggregate and fall out of solution while not affecting the coloring of your beer or wine. After mixing, add hot mixture to 5-6 gallons of beer or wine.

How do you use bentonite and Sparkolloid?

Use bentonite first to remove the bulk of the proteins and then use Sparkolloid to remove the last of the haze. Bentonite has a negative charge and uses electrostatic attraction and hydrogen bonding. Sparkolloid has a positive static charge which allows it to drag negatively charged particles to the bottom.

Can I add bentonite after fermentation?

Bentonite is a fining agent (clarifier) that can either be added in moderate amounts before the fermentation or in larger amounts after the fermentation. If added after the fermentation, more is needed to be effective, and several periodic stirring sessions are required by the wine maker, as well.

How much is a gallon of Sparkolloid?

Sparkolloid is a cellulose/diatomaceous earth mixture that is effective in clarifying wine. Use by slowly adding 1/2 tsp. of Sparkolloid per gallon of wine to 1-1 1/2 cups of boiling water, stirring until smooth and creamy.

Is Sparkolloid the same as bentonite?

Bentonite has a negative charge and uses electrostatic attraction and hydrogen bonding. Sparkolloid has a positive static charge which allows it to drag negatively charged particles to the bottom. Sparkolloid won’t compact your finnings as well as bentonite.

Does bentonite stop fermentation?

One way is to lower the temperature, which can slow or stop the fermentation process. For example, bentonite clay can be added while a wine is still fermenting. The clay acts as a clarifying agent, binding to the yeast cells and other suspended solids in the wine, and settling to the bottom of the tank or barrel.