Confuzzled 2nd attempt at rum

[Corps012588]

Ok so here goes.

Just put 5ltrs of molasses and 3kg of sugar into my fermenter and checked the gravity.
At about 26ltrs it's saying 10%
Surely that can't be right can it?
Should I add another kilo of sugar?

[Mash]

Did you test it a 20c? Higher temps do make a difference to OG.

My gut feel is - 1KG can't hurt. Depends would rich the molasses is the worst that happens is you spend 45p you didn't need to and it finishes a bit sweet or takes a bit longer to complete.

[chill]

Remember - that is checking the specific gravity. This is quite accurate when using white sugar but molasses is loaded with non-sugar gunk that also raise the gravity. Measuring the OG is pretty useless with a molasses wash, you need to calculate it.

[Corps012588]

Thanks just added another kg of the sugar.
Just waiting for the temp to come down to pitch my yeast.
Must order that refractometer mash!!!

[Mash]

Remember - that is checking the specific gravity. This is quite accurate when using white sugar but molasses is loaded with non-sugar gunk that also raise the gravity. Measuring the OG is pretty useless with a molasses wash, you need to calculate it.

That is a very good point. I wonder how it affects a refracto reading?

[chill]

No idea on the refacto, or if you could even see through it. My rum washes are blacker than a bartender's heart.

[Easydrinker]

My rum washes are blacker than a bartender's heart.

I am loving that, and may steal it

Robert.

[chill]

It is not a chill original, I stole it too.