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Fermentors under 60 Gallons

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167 products

  • BrewBuilt Neoprene Carboy Sleeve - PLACEHOLDER BrewBuilt Neoprene Carboy Sleeve - PLACEHOLDER

    BrewBuilt® Neoprene Carboy Sleeve

    The BrewBuilt Neoprene Carboy Sleeve works great for maintaining the internal temperature of your 5, 6, or 6.5 gallon glass carboy. Highly recommended for use with the BrewBuilt Carboy CoolStix. The added insulation will lower the amount of cycles needed to maintain fermentation temperatures and greatly assist in cold crashing. The sleeves are 6 mm thick with stitched piping on the edges for exceptional durability.   SKU Size Height (in.) Diameter (in.) FE329A 5 Gal 14.75 10.75 FE329B 6 Gal 17.25 10.90 FE329C 6.5 Gal 17.50 11.20  

    $24.49 - $36.49

  • Blichmann WineEasy Fermentor - 20gal Blichmann WineEasy Fermentor - 20gal

    Blichmann WineEasy Fermentor - 20gal

    2 reviews

    Using the WineEasy™ combined fermentor and press is admittedly different than anything on the market, but is incredibly easy to use and provides results and ease of use that traditional fermenting and pressing techniques simply can't offer. At the heart of the system is a high quality stainless primary fermentor (20, 30 and 55 gal sizes). A uniquely designed false bottom located at the bottom of the fermentor allows the pomace to be separated from the wine while draining the unit. The tines on the pressure plate support the bottom of the fermentor and perforated false bottom and keep it from collapsing from the pressure imparted by the vacuum pump. After alcoholic fermentation, the free run is drained or pumped out of the fermentor. The sliding piston assembly is then installed. The vacuum pump evacuates the carboy (or other vacuum capable vessel) and applies a vacuum under the false bottom of the WineEasy fermentor. This causes atmospheric pressure to push down on the sliding piston pressing the pomace to the ideal maximum pressure of 14 PSI to avoid hard press conditions. Since this is all done without transferring the pomace to a press, and is done so in a completely closed and air tight system, oxidation and contamination are virtually eliminated. Cleanup is as easy as scooping out the dry pomace into a container and washing out the high polish stainless steel fermentor! Please click here to view the WineEasy Buying Guide Features: No messy transfers to a secondary fermentor Less risk of contamination and oxidation Great press efficiency Fast Easy to use Simple mess-free cleanup Produce consistently superb wines Please Note: This 20 gallon Wine Easy requires at least 6.6 gallons of must to press effectively.

    $733.49

  • Macro Bin - Lid

    Macro Bin - Lid

    Due to high demand, this item is currently out of stock. Be the first to receive your items by placing a pre-order today. We will automatically ship this to you when we receive more inventory. Plastic cover for 1/2 ton Macro Bin. 48" x 48"

    $139.99

  • Plastic carboy - 6 Gallon - Vintage Shop (Ported) with Spigot Plastic carboy - 6 Gallon - Vintage Shop (Ported) with Spigot

    Plastic PET Carboy - 6 Gallon Ported with Spigot

    Made from BPA free PET, this 6 gallon plastic carboy is a great fermenter for wine that won't affect the taste or smell of your wine. Makes a great secondary fermenter as well because of its negligable oxygen permeability. Cleaning is made easy by its straight smooth sides. This fermenter comes with a hole 2 inches from the bottom to allow you to install a spigot to make racking much easier. You will also need the spigot installation tool (FE311A) to install the spigot. When cleaning, do not use a carboy brush as the bristles will scratch platic carboys giving bacteria a place to hide and multiply. A #10 stopper fits well in the mouth of the carboy. Specifications (Not including spigot): Uses a #10 stopper or a 5 Gallon Carboy Hood. Weighs 1.5 lbs Rated to 140 degrees F Height: 19.25 inches Diameter: 11.25 inches Completely taste and odor free  

  • 60L Speidel Stainless Flat Bottom Tank - PLACEHOLDER

    Speidel Flat Bottom Fermentation and Storage Tank | Stainless Steel | 60L

    High-quality stainless steel fermentation and storage tank Gasketed lid creates an airtight seal of long-term storage with no oxygen ingress Impeccable 2R (IIId) surface finish for easy cleaning A versatile vessel that works perfectly for storing, mixing, fermenting, and transporting liquid Made in Germany by Speidel This new universal cask from Speidel is perfect for storing, mixing, fermenting, and transporting a variety of liquids.  These premium storage tanks have a gasketed lid for airtight storage, handles for easy moving, and fittings to add airlocks or taps as necessary.  These casks are made with Speidel's impeccable craftsmanship, meaning high quality 304 stainless steel construction with a IIId surface finish, insuring easy cleanup and a long service life. Features: 304 SS construction IIId surface finish - easy cleanup 60 l (15.9 gal) volume Gasketed sealed tanks - no oxygen permeation during storage 69.2 cm (27.2") Height x 35 cm (13.8") Ø German quality construction with 25 year warranty Airlock hole with sealing cap in lid - use for storage or buy an airlock to use for fermenting  

    $549.99

  • 3.5 gal | Brew Bucket Mini Fermenter 3.5 gal | Brew Bucket Mini Fermenter

    3.5 gal | Brew Bucket Mini Fermenter

    36 reviews

    Upgrade your home brewery with an innovative, Stainless Steel, 3.5 Gallon Brew Bucket™ Fermenter!  Many have asked for a smaller BrewBucket, and that has been heard.  The Brew Bucket mini is perfect for 2.5 gallon batches.  With features similar to the original 7 gallon Brew Bucket, the Mini is a great way to do smaller batches.  Whether you are interested in splitting a 5 gallon batch for experimenting, or just brew 2.5 gallons, the BrewBucket Mini is a great choice. Featuring a conical bottom, 304 SS construction, a rotating racking arm valve, and stackable design, these are space saving feature rich fermentors that are easy and enjoyable to use.  We inspected and used the Brew Bucket™ and one of the most unique features that stood out is that the Brew Bucket can be stacked during fermentation, even with an airlock attached. We also like the conical bottom that allows trub to settle out in a concentrated space that minimizes the surface area of the trub that is in contact with your beer.  The included Patent Pending Rotating Racking Valve is also a brilliantly simple design allowing you to rotate the racking arm inside the Brew Bucket down during fermentation to minimize trub, and later up to get clear beer when racking!   Etched Volume Markers on the inside were super handy when filling. The build quality is really amazing for the price. Welds are clean. The lid is strong and the spring loaded lid hatches are solid.  The lid includes a removable, molded silicone gasket that ensures an airtight seal.  We love an airtight seal so that we can be sure to see the airlock working. The welded on stainless handles make the BrewBucket fermentor super easy to move. Features: 304 SS Food Grade Construction Rotating Racking Arm & Valve (Patent Pending) 3.5 Gal Max Capacity (2.5 gal Batches) 40° Conical Bottom for Trub Trapping Nests for Storage & Stacks for Ferment! SS lid w/ Silicone Gasketed seal Spring Loaded Lid Clamps for Airtight Lid Seal Offset Airlock Hole includes Silicone Stopper Gallon Markers inside for visual volume assessment Stainless construction resists damage and is easy to clean 8.5" Bottom Width / 11" Top Width x 16" Height   Please note: the thermowell pictured in the second photo is not included.  

    $149.00

  • Italian Glass Carboy (6.5 Gallon) - Threaded Neck Italian Glass Carboy (6.5 Gallon) - Threaded Neck

    Italian Glass Carboy | Fermenter | Threaded Neck | Narrow Mouth | 6.5 Gallon

    1 review

    Made in Italy, these are premium glass carboys that are better than other carboys on the market because the glass has a more uniform thickness with less inclusions. Inclusions, or internal defects, occur when the glass is not cooled slowly over a longer period of time. This large 6.5 gallon size carboy fermenter is perfect for 5 gallon batches as there is plenty of head space to avoid blow-off during fermentation. This carboy has a smaller threaded neck than standard carboys, and requires a specific hood for use with racking, and fermenting. Our line of Itailan carboy is our top recommendation for glass carboys.    Specifications: Weight: 20.0 pounds each Dimensions: 21.0"h x 12.5"w x 12.5"d" Country of origin: Italy

    $69.99

  • Farro Glass - Wide Mouth Glass Carboy - Replacement Lid Farro Glass - Wide Mouth Glass Carboy - Replacement Lid

    Farro Glass Wide Mouth Glass Carboys | Replacement Lid

    1 review

    Replacement lid for Farro Glass wide mouth glass carboys. Screw cap covers a 1" hole which will accept a #5 stopper for installing an airlock. Made from polypropylene.

    $4.99

  • Speidel Plastic Tank Adapter - Dip Tube /Thermowell /  NPT Male Speidel Plastic Tank Adapter - Dip Tube /Thermowell /  NPT Male

    Stainless Dip Tube & Thermowell for Speidel Plastic Fermenters

    6 reviews

    Stainless dip tube and thermowell for Speidel plastic fermenters. Replace your spigot with this dip tube along with a ball valve for a nice spigot upgrade. The 1/2 in. NPT connection can also be used for other attachments such as, quick disconnects, camlock components, or tri clamp. The dip tube uses the stock speidel spigot lock ring and gasket.

    $43.99

  • Funnel with Flexible Curve (9 in. diam)

    Funnel with Flexible Curve (9 in. diam)

    9 inch funnel with a flexible output hose designed to give you more, well, flexibility!  The adjustable outlet hose can be useful when working in tight spaces like your barrel room, or anywhere else that a bit more versatility could be helpful!

    $16.49

  • Demijohn Lid - 54L Narrow Mouth Demijohn Lid - 54L Narrow Mouth

    Demijohn Lid - 54L Narrow Mouth

    1 review

    Plastic dust cap for the 54L narrow mouth demijohn

    $1.69

  • Blichmann WineEasy Press Piston - 20gal

    Blichmann WineEasy Press Piston - 20gal

    This is the Press Piston Assembly for the Blichmann WineEasy Fermentor. You will need one Piston Assembly for each different size WineEasy Fermentor you have, and if you have multiple WineEasy Fermentors of the same size, you will only need one Piston Assembly to press all of them!   Please Note: This 20 gallon Wine Easy requires at least 6.6 gallons of must to press effectively.

    $229.99

  • Sansone Stainless Fusti Tank - Eurowelded (Europa Model) - 75L - PLACEHOLDER

    Sansone Fusti Tank | Stainless Steel | 19.8 Gallon | 75L

    Sansone Fusti tanks are crafted from high-quality stainless steel with welded handles for long-lasting performance and easy transport La Nuova Sansone has been crafting high-quality stainless steel containers in Italy for over 40 years, earning a reputation for exceptional design and quality NSF certified stainless steel spigot available for purchase separately The Sansone Europa model Fusti tank is made from 304 stainless steel with a mirror polish finish and welded handles. La Nuova Sansone has been making high-quality stainless steel containers in Italy for over 40 years, building a reputation for exceptional design and quality. If you intend to use the tank for water dispensing, we highly recommend the Europa-AQ model. This tank undergoes an additional pickling and polishing process that improves corrosion resistance. Specifications: Capacity - 75L (19.8 gal) Diameter - 460mm (18.11") Height - 550mm (21.65") Opening - 230mm (9.05") Empty Weight - 14.3 lbs Outlet - 1/2" BSP NSF Certified Made in Italy Stainless valve sold separately

    $252.99

  • FermZilla All Rounder Fermenter - 60L FermZilla All Rounder Fermenter - 60L

    FermZilla All Rounder Fermenter | 15.9 gal. | 60 L

    7 reviews

    The FermZilla 60L All Rounder is the perfect fermentation vessel that can be used for fermenting under pressure, carbonating, and dispensing.  It's far more capable than the FermZilla Flat bottom but it's less complicated and less expensive than the FermZilla Conical fermenter. The key differences are that the All Rounder can be pressurized, unlike the Flat Bottom, but it does not have a dump valve like the FermZilla Conical. For fermenting under pressure or serving out of the All Rounder, we recommend using the Pressure Kit for 55L FermZilla and cutting the dip tube to the appropriate length. The pressure kit is available with either stainless or plastic ball lock caps. What's Included: FermZilla 60L All Rounder Fermenter Stainless Steel Stand Stainless Steel Handle Top Lid with PRV (35 psi) 3-Piece Airlock Adhesive Thermometer Specs: 60 L (15.9 gal) Total Volume Pressure Rated to 2.5 Bar (36.2 psi) Height in Stand - 34" Height w/ Airlock - 36.5" Tank Diameter - 13.9"  Lid Ports - 28 mm PCO 1881 threads Temperature Rating: When not under pressure, do not expose to liquids above 131°F When under pressure, do not expose to any temperatures above 95°F* *Please note that the temperature rating for the FermZilla tank is lower when using it under pressure. When not under pressure, it is perfectly safe to transfer wort into the tank below 131°F or to use hot liquids below this temp for cleaning. When under pressure, make sure to keep your fermentation temperature below 95°F and keep the fermenter in an environment that is below 95°F ambient. This is especially important when fermenting with kveik yeast. These strains are known to ferment hot if no temperature control is being used. Exceeding the temperature rating may compromise the tank, leading to a shorter life span or sudden failure to maintain pressure. Even with proper use, we recommend replacing the tank every two years. Kegland Part number: KL15196 NOTE: FermZilla tanks are marked with a manufacturer’s “expiry date”. This does not indicate that the tank is bad after this date; it simply indicates that a hydro test may be in order. 2 years after production and every 2 years after first use, it is recommended that the tank be hydro tested to ensure the tank is holding pressure. Hydro test instructions are available here. You will also need the D1072 Green PRV to perform the test. If you do not plan to pressurize the fermenter, the test is not necessary.    

    $124.99

  • Plastic carboy - 3 Gallon - Vintage Shop (Ported) with Spigot Plastic carboy - 3 Gallon - Vintage Shop (Ported) with Spigot

    Plastic PET Carboy - 3 Gallon Ported with Spigot

    3 reviews

    Made from BPA free PET, this 3 gallon plastic carboy is a great fermenter for wine that won't affect the taste or smell of your wine. Makes a great secondary fermenter as well because of its negligable oxygen permeability. Cleaning is made easy by its straight smooth sides. This fermenter comes with a hole 2 inches from the bottom to allow you to install a spigot to make racking much easier. You will also need the spigot installation tool (FE311A) to install the spigot. When cleaning, do not use a carboy brush as the bristles will scratch platic carboys giving bacteria a place to hide and multiply. A #10 stopper fits well in the mouth of the carboy. Specifications (Not including spigot): Uses a #10 stopper or a 5 Gallon Carboy Hood. Weighs 1.0 lbs Rated to 140 degrees Height: 16 inches Diameter: 9 inches Completely taste and odor free

  • 120L Speidel Stainless Flat Bottom Tank - PLACEHOLDER

    Speidel Flat Bottom Fermentation and Storage Tank | Stainless Steel | 120L

    High-quality stainless steel fermentation and storage tank Gasketed lid creates an airtight seal of long-term storage with no oxygen ingress Impeccable 2R (IIId) surface finish for easy cleaning A versatile vessel that works perfectly for storing, mixing, fermenting, and transporting liquid Made in Germany by Speidel This new universal cask from Speidel is perfect for storing, mixing, fermenting, and transporting a variety of liquids.  These premium storage tanks have a gasketed lid for airtight storage, handles for easy moving, and fittings to add airlocks or taps as necessary.  These casks are made with Speidel's impeccable craftsmanship, meaning high quality 304 stainless steel construction with a IIId surface finish, insuring easy cleanup and a long service life. Features: 304 SS construction IIId surface finish - easy cleanup 120 l (31.7 gal) volume Gasketed sealed tanks - no oxygen permeation during storage 88 cm (34.7") Height x 44 cm (17.3") Ø German quality construction with 25 year warranty Airlock hole with sealing cap in lid - use for storage or buy an airlock to use for fermenting  

    $659.99

  • Plastic Bucket (6 Gallon) w/ Hole Drilled For Spigot Plastic Bucket (6 Gallon) w/ Hole Drilled For Spigot

    MoreBeer!® 6 Gallon Bucket | Pre-Drilled Hole | Food Grade Plastic Fermenter | Volume Markers

    3 reviews

    Why do home winemakers love using a bucket to ferment and bottle from? EASE!    Going from spigot to bottle will reduce the time your wine is exposed to oxygen. It’s easier to control filling bottles than with a siphon. It’s easy to clean, easy to carry, and easy to transfer. You will love our six gallon, food grade bucket with hole for spigot and external volume markings up to five gallons.   To use as a fermenter you will need to pick up the optional spigot, lid, a stopper, and an airlock.   If you use the bucket for fermentation be sure to use care when cleaning. Do not use any abrasive pads that could scratch the interior surface. Once you get a scratch in a plastic bucket it is very hard to sanitize. This is also why we don't recommend storing equipment in a bucket between uses as a fermenter. A hot PBW soak is usually all you need to clean a bucket after fermentation.    Please note: Buckets are translucent and do not come with lids. Buckets are not designed to hold pressure. Lids are not gasketed and so do not always form a perfect, airtight seal. Not intended for long-term storage. Food-Grade to 180° F

    $17.99

  • Replacement Lid for 20/30 l Plastic Speidel Tank

    Replacement Lid for 20/30 l Plastic Speidel Tank

    5 reviews

    This is the replacement lid for the 20/30 l Speidel Plastic Fermenters.  While this is not a piece which should wear out, we've seen these take damage, and eventually need to be replaced. This lid fits our 20 l (5.3 gal) & 30 l (7.9 gal) Speidel Plastic Fermenters. Please note: This product consists of 3 pieces.  One outer threaded ring, one top cover and one gasket

    $18.99

  • Fermonster 7 Gallon Ported Carboy Fermonster 7 Gallon Ported Carboy

    FerMonster 7 Gallon Ported Carboy (Spigot Not Included)

    6 reviews

    The Ported Fermonster is a brand new fermenter designed specifically for fermentation. We gave product feedback for over 2 years of development and we think they nailed the design. The large lid allows for easy filling and makes hop or oak additions a breeze. The smooth sides are fantastic for sanitization - no ribs or texture to collect yeast or bacteria.  The large 7 gallon size was designed to provide ample space for fermentation and you'll find the molded in volume markers super handy for accurate filling. The punted bottom allows sediment to collect to the sides so that you can siphon liquid from the center.  Because they are made from virgin PET plastic they nearly unbreakable and a lot safer than similar glass carboys. Also notice the conical top which reduces surface area if you plan to store beer or wine long term.   These Fermenters are ported but do not come with a spigot. FE347 is the plastic spigot we recommend along with this fermenter. Made from heavy PET plastic, the same material used in 2 L soda bottles, which is nearly impermeable to oxygen penetration.  Due to the thicknes of the material and the overall geometry the Fermonster does not require ribs or dimples for stability.  That results in a super smooth interior surface that reduces yeast and sediment buildup making it the easiest to clean, most sanitary PET carboy on the market.  The huge 4" opening makes filling a breeze, and cleanup is as easy as wiping down the inside.  The 7 gallon volume is a monster of a fermenter, reducing blowoff issues seen with standard 5 and 6 gallon carboys. Fermonsters are easily moved by hand or consider using our Carboy Carrier for even greater ease of use. These fermentors are completely air-tight and the lids sealed tight with an O-Ring.  Additional O-Rings and Lids both with and without holes are available for purchase, see our You Might Also Need items below. Features: 4" wide mouth carboy - easy to clean! Ported to allow a spigot Food grade PET plastic construction is nearly impermeable to oxygen penetration No hard to clean dimples or ribs Volume Markers at 5, 6, and 7 Gallons Punted bottom O-Ring and Lid with one hole is included (Fits #10 Stopper) Additional O-Rings and Lids available Weight: 1.5 lbs Temperature Limit: 140° F Height: 20.9 inches Diameter: 11.3 inches Completely taste and odor free Perfect for Beer, Wine, Cider, Mead, Kombucha or any other fermented beverage! Thick walls for better oxygen barrier.

    $40.99

  • 1 Gallon Glass Jar Fermenter Kit - Lug Finish - S-Shaped Airlock 1 Gallon Glass Jar Fermenter Kit - Lug Finish - S-Shaped Airlock

    Glass Jar Fermenter Kit | 1 Gallon | Lug Finish Metal Lid | Airlock

    1 review

    A small 1 gallon glass jar fermenter that is perfect for testing new things on a small scale or just fermenting a small batch of wine! This unit features a lug-finish glass jar with metal lid. Metal lids won't crack or break like plastic lids, and they provide a much better seal thanks to the thin foam liner underneath. Similar to mason jar lids, the metal lid will show signs of rust over time and need to be replaced, but this won't happen for some time with proper cleaning practices.  Includes: 1 gallon glass jar Screw top lid with hole and airlock grommet S-Shaped airlock

  • Replacement Lid for Speidel Rectangular Plastic Storage 60L, 100L, 200L, 300L, 500L Replacement Lid for Speidel Rectangular Plastic Storage 60L, 100L, 200L, 300L, 500L

    Replacement Lid for Speidel Rectangular Plastic Storage 60L, 100L, 200L, 300L, 500L

    Replacement lid for 60L - 500L Speidel Rectangular Plastic Storage tanks.

    $16.49

  • Plastic carboy - 6 Gallon - Vintage Shop (Ported) Plastic carboy - 6 Gallon - Vintage Shop (Ported)

    Plastic PET Carboy - 6 Gallon Ported (Spigot Not Included)

    Made from BPA free PET, this 6 gallon plastic carboy is a great fermenter for wine that won't affect the taste or smell of your wine. Makes a great secondary fermenter as well because of its negligable oxygen permeability. Cleaning is made easy by its straight smooth sides. This fermenter comes with a hole 2 inches from the bottom to allow you to install a spigot to make racking much easier. We recommend our plastic bucket spigot (FE347) and you will also need the spigot installation tool (FE311A) to install the spigot. When cleaning, do not use a carboy brush as the bristles will scratch platic carboys giving bacteria a place to hide and multiply. A #10 stopper fits well in the mouth of the carboy. Does not come with spigot.

    $32.99

  • Plastic carboy - 5 Gallon - Vintage Shop (Ported) with Spigot Plastic carboy - 5 Gallon - Vintage Shop (Ported) with Spigot

    Plastic PET Carboy - 5 Gallon Ported with Spigot

    3 reviews

    Made from BPA free PET, this 5 gallon plastic carboy is a great fermenter for wine that won't affect the taste or smell of your wine. Makes a great secondary fermenter as well because of its negligable oxygen permeability. Cleaning is made easy by its straight smooth sides. This fermenter comes with a hole 2 inches from the bottom to allow you to install a spigot to make racking much easier. You will also need the spigot installation tool (FE311A) to install the spigot. When cleaning, do not use a carboy brush as the bristles will scratch platic carboys giving bacteria a place to hide and multiply. A #10 stopper fits well in the mouth of the carboy. Specifications (Not including spigot): Uses a #10 stopper or a 5 Gallon Carboy Hood. Weighs 1.5 lbs Rated to 140 degrees Height: 19 inches Diameter: 10.5 inches Completely taste and odor free

  • Speidel Fermenter - Fermentegg (250 l) - PLACEHOLDER Speidel Fermenter - Fermentegg (250 l) - PLACEHOLDER

    Speidel FermentEgg Plastic Fermenter | Stainless Steel Valves | 250L | 66 gal

    Traditional design meets modern technology and materials Oval design allows for unhindered convection currents during fermenation Supports constant circulation—eliminating hot spots and leading to faster fermentations Smooth interior surface makes cleaning quick & easy Made in Germany by Speidel  The Fermentegg represents a new take on one of the oldest vessel shapes for winemaking. Oval vessels have been used to ferment and store wine for thousands of years, however Speidel's Fermentegg brings this concept to modern times with a lightweight yet heavy duty, food-safe polyethylene construction. The egg shaped vessel results in convection currents during fermentation, unhindered by corners or edges. This movement results in your beer or wine constantly circulating, with an end result of a more complex, yet unified product. Fermentations will generally complete quicker due to the motion of the product, and hot spots will be eliminated as the product remains at a homogenous temperature. Can be used to ferment wine, beer or even cider! Speidel has become known as a forward moving company in fermentation equipment and following in the foot steps of the Speidel Plastic Fermenter, the egg is very easy to clean because of it's smooth inside surface. Specifications: Height: 120 cm Width: 76 cm Lid has a 38 mm hole which can be utilized for use with the Speidel Red Rubber Stopper and Airlock Includes 2 x 1" Male BSPP stainless steel ball valves (H632B recommended for adapting)   Please Note: these vessels are recommended for primary fermentation and short term aging only. They are not pressurizable and may experience oxygen ingress if used for long term storage or prolonged aging.  

    $1,429.99

For Red Wines:
Red wines are fermented using the entire grape, skins and all. When making red wines, two basic criteria need to be taken into account:

  1. During fermentation, yeast create alcohol and CO2 gas. As the CO2 bubbles up through the wine, a portion gets trapped in the skins and causes them to float on the surface of the wine in a mass called "the cap". The cap actually lifts itself above the surface of the liquid and this causes the volume of must to expand in the tank. So, when filling red wine fermenters, keep in mind you will not be able to fill it to the top with must, you will need to leave enough space for the cap to expand into. Therefore, if you want to be able to ferment a set volume of red wine, you will need to size the fermenter slightly larger than the desired finished volume of wine.
  2. The skins in the "cap" will need to be rinsed with the liquid wine several times a day during the fermentation. For large volumes this is done with a pump in a process called a "pump-over" (because you are pumping wine over the top of the cap). For smaller volumes (up to 300 gallons), this rinsing/wetting of the cap is usually done manually using a specialized "wine punch down tool" designed for the job. Using the tool, you simply break-up the cap and gently stir it back into the wine. This process is called "punching the cap". In order to use the punch down tool, however, you will need to have access to the surface of the wine. Therefore an open-top wine fermenter (not sealed) is the way to go for fermenting small red wine lots.

For White Wines (as well as Rose and Fruit Wines!):
White wines are made using just the juice from the grape. The crushing and separation of the juice from the solids happens before the fermentation begins. Since we have no solids present, there is no need to punch the cap. However, white wines are very sensitive to oxygen exposure and whatever we can do to limit this is a good thing. For this reason open-top fermenters are not recommended and sealed containers are the best choice for making white wines. If you are making small lots (1-6 gallons), then carboys are the ideal white wine fermentation vessel. However, for larger lots you will need to look at a Variable Volume or sealed tank.

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