Crossword Genius

It just has to be used in winemaking (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

must

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'has to be used in winemaking' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.

'it' is the wordplay.
I cannot really understand how this works, but
'it' could be 't' (abbreviation. e.g. in 'tis) and 't' is found within the answer.
The remaining letters 'mus' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't understand.
This explanation may well be incorrect...

'just' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for must that I've seen before include "Make off with (plane)" , "Smell of dampness or staleness" , "Essential to have" , "new wine" , "Mouldiness" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.