Victoria Grain Mill with High Hopper

10/5/2006 -- I have an antique lard press made out of cast iron....and was considering using it to press grapes, apples, etc. My father-in-law brought up an interesting question concerning the effect of cast iron on the juice. Do you think that cast iron will adversely effect the juice being squeezed?

Response From The Home Brew Store Dot Com: I don't think the cast iron will have a significant negative effect. The metal parts of the old table-top fruit press were originally made of cast iron, although the actual press pad and slats are made of hardwood. I've also seen cast iron fruit presses for sale. I suspect the grape juice is not in contact with the metal enough to make a difference.