First cider help

[johnnie]

This is my first attempt at cider using apples from my own garden. Only got 4.5 gal which has finished fermenting after 11days. My hydrometer is reading 1004. Is this normal? I usually do AG beers which finish at 1010 or thereabouts.
What do I do now?
I also had a little taste. Quite sour but not undrinkable. Will the flavour improve?

Any advice on racking or bottling would be appreciated.
Thanks J

 

[Tim_Crowhurst]

An SG of 1004 is up the upper range of what to expect for a cider. The flavour will improve with time, and it'll probably be at its most drinkable next summer.

Once cleared, rack into a sterilised DJ, then into ordinary beer or cider bottles with 1tsp sugar per pint, and crown-cap. Leave somewhere warm for fortnight, then put in the fridge for a fortnight.

Alternatively, rack into a sterilised DJ and add a teaspoon of oak chips. Seal and leave to mature for two months, then bottle and condition as above.

 

[johnnie]

Thanks Tim going to rack tonite. Next summer :shock: I'd better get some more beers on the go then.