SO₂ Addition

Work out exactly how much sulphite to add to reach your target free SO₂, accounting for your wine's pH (lower pH means more active molecular SO₂). Supports potassium metabisulphite (KMS), sodium metabisulphite and Campden tablets in litres or gallons.

Calculate how much sulphite to add to reach your target free SO₂ level. Accounts for wine pH — lower pH means more active molecular SO₂.

mg/L

0 if starting fresh

mg/L

Typical: whites 25–35, reds 20–30 mg/L

Lower pH = more effective SO₂

Sets the legal total-SO₂ ceiling below.

Addition required

1.2 g

SO₂ to add

30 mg/L

Molecular SO₂ at target

0.6 mg/L

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Frequently asked questions

How much potassium metabisulphite do I add per litre?

KMS is about 57.6% SO₂ by weight. To raise free SO₂ by X mg/L in V litres, add (X × V ÷ 1000) ÷ 0.576 grams of KMS. Enter your target and current free SO₂ above to get the exact amount.

What is molecular SO₂ and why does pH matter?

Molecular SO₂ is the antimicrobially active fraction of free SO₂. It is calculated as free SO₂ ÷ (1 + 10^(pH − 1.81)). At lower pH a larger fraction is molecular, so you need less free SO₂ for the same protection. Aim for ~0.5–0.8 mg/L molecular SO₂.

How many Campden tablets per gallon?

A standard Campden tablet provides ~0.253 g SO₂. Choose Campden tablets and gallons above and the calculator converts for you.

Related calculators

Calculations are estimates based on standard winemaking formulas (Henderson–Hasselbalch for SO₂, Duncan & Acton for wine ABV, standard addition rates). Always verify critical additions with a reference or lab analysis. The decision and responsibility for any addition rest with you.