Bentonite – Wine Clarifier for Removing Protein Haze

Bentonite is a natural clay used in winemaking to help remove protein haze and clarify wine. When hydrated and added to wine, bentonite carries a negative charge that attracts and binds positively charged particles, allowing them to settle out of the wine.

This fining agent is commonly used to improve wine clarity and stability before bottling.

Typical Use:

• Mix approximately 2 teaspoons of bentonite with 1/2 cup warm water.
• Allow the mixture to hydrate before adding it to the wine.
• Stir thoroughly and allow the wine to clear.

Example Fining Rate:

• For a 5 gallon batch, mix about 1/2 tsp (approx. 3g) bentonite with 1/2 cup water.
• Stir into wine and allow 10–14 days for clearing before racking.

Bentonite works best when used at appropriate temperatures and pH levels and is widely used by home winemakers to produce clearer, more stable wines.