Making the first batch

[bhoneycutt]

I am a first time wine maker and have some questions. I currently have two 5 gallon carboys filled with Merlot grape juice. I know that it should ferment for 4-6 weeks, but what temperature should it be fermenting at? Thanks for your help.

[grapeadmin]

Most winemakers try to ferment this type of red farily warm. I would try to get it up around 75 deg. F and it would be good if you could get the temp up to as high as 85 deg. F during the height of fermentation. By fermenting this red warm, you will be able to create more complex fruity aromas and esters and also be sure it will ferment to completion.

john