Nothing can be quite as satisfying as making your very own wine. From the excitement of choosing the fruit and the process itself to the wait for it to mature and finally the chance to try out your very own blend of grapes. There can be nothing better! You can make your own wine at home with a few basic implements and a good recipe like the ones below. Follow the instructions below on how to make your own wine and enjoy some exotic refreshment all your own!
The Best Time to Make Wine
Early autumn is the best time for wine making since there are so many varieties of grapes to choose from at this time of year. Cultivars will vary depending on where you live but Vitis vinifera is the classic choice for its wonderful flavor, varietal character and historic authenticity. It’s a member of a renowned European wine-grape family and includes Chardonnay, Merlot, Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon.
In America v. vinifera grapes enjoy the climate of California and the Pacific Northwest but are also able to be grown in microclimates from New York to the Great Lakes, the Mid-Atlantic states and beyond.
If you live in a colder, wetter climate and can’t find v. vinifera grapes there are hybrids and Vitis labrusca grapes you can use to make your own wine or you could order grapes via your local winemaking shop or from a produce wholesaler.
The techniques, equipment and ingredients are the same, no matter what variety you choose. Here is the process to make your own wine - in a nutshell.
* Basic Winemaking Equipment
To make your first one-gallon batch of wine you will need:
You should be able to find all of the above at a home brewing or home winemaking supply shop. Tell the store clerk you are about to make your own wine and he or she will help you to find everything you need.
