1. What is the Mead Batch Calculator?

The Mead Batch Calculator estimates the Alcohol by Volume (ABV) of your mead using the original gravity (OG) and final gravity (FG) measurements. This helps brewers understand the alcohol content of their finished mead.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard ABV formula:

Where:

• \( OG \) — Original gravity (specific gravity before fermentation)
• \( FG \) — Final gravity (specific gravity after fermentation)
• 131.25 — Conversion factor to calculate alcohol percentage

Explanation: The difference between OG and FG shows how much sugar has been converted to alcohol, and the conversion factor translates this into alcohol percentage.

3. Importance of ABV Calculation

Details: Knowing your mead's ABV is important for understanding its strength, proper serving sizes, and for competition entries. It also helps track fermentation efficiency.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your original and final gravity measurements as specific gravity values (e.g., 1.100 for OG, 1.010 for FG). Use a hydrometer for accurate measurements.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical OG for mead?
A: Most meads start between 1.080 and 1.120, depending on desired sweetness and alcohol content.

Q2: What FG indicates fermentation is complete?
A: Fermentation is typically complete when FG stabilizes over several days, usually between 0.990 and 1.010.

Q3: How accurate is this calculation?
A: This provides a good estimate, but actual ABV may vary slightly due to factors like temperature and measurement precision.

Q4: Can I use this for other fermented beverages?
A: Yes, this formula works for beer, wine, and other sugar-based fermentations.

Q5: What if my FG is higher than expected?
A: High FG may indicate incomplete fermentation, too much unfermentable sugar, or measurement error.