Secondary Additions

Northern Brewer General
1

I have 2 current brews that are about to go to Secondary (Chinook IPA & Chocolate Milk Stout) - both call for additions in the secondary and I’ve never done that before. Instructions say just to add a couple of weeks before bottling.

Wondering about sanitizing, do I just drop the hops and cocoa nibs into them and that’s it or do I need to soak either or both in vodka or something to make sure they are good?

Also, should they be in a hop bag or just dump them in there?

Any info appreciated as always

Thanks
Brian

2

No need to sanitize the hops. Just toss them in. The hops will settle and you can rack your beer leaving the hop sludge behind.

I have never used cocoa nibs before, They may need to be sanitized.

3

Nibs don’t need sanitized either. But some people have used the vodka tincture to add to taste rather than adding the whole thing. FWIW I have used nibs several times and don’t think they add too much flavor.

4

+1

5

I asked the same questions the first time I had stuff added to secondary. I did the Chinook IPA last year and really like it! It was the first time I dryhpped as well.

Just dump them in.