Winemaking (a.k.a. Vinification)
Since 2013, I have been making my own wine. Besides having fun at it, I have learned a lot in the process and am willing to share this with you on this website.
Legally, in most States, you can make 100-200 gallons of wine per year as long as it is for your own use and people in your household or guests and you are not selling it. Check the laws in your State before proceeding.
People consistently tell me that my wine tastes better than anything they can get in a wine shop. Often they want to buy some. However, I let them know I cannot sell unless I wanted to go the trouble of setting up a business that meets strict food preparation standards, apply for and pay annual fees for a State liquor license, and sales taxes - which I do not. I am however, happy to teach people how to make their own wine.
To download a PDF file containing my instructions click on this link: Wine, Dry Red - Recipe for 20 Gallons
You can scale it down to a 6 gallon batch if you like. I find it much more efficient to do 20 gallons at a time. This is a guide to help you get started. You can also get personal help from your local Wine Making Supply store. Check in the Yellow Pages or Online for "Wine Makers Equip and Supplies".
Here is a basic beginner's book you can buy, “The Art of Making Wine” by Anderson and Hull.
Legally, in most States, you can make 100-200 gallons of wine per year as long as it is for your own use and people in your household or guests and you are not selling it. Check the laws in your State before proceeding.
People consistently tell me that my wine tastes better than anything they can get in a wine shop. Often they want to buy some. However, I let them know I cannot sell unless I wanted to go the trouble of setting up a business that meets strict food preparation standards, apply for and pay annual fees for a State liquor license, and sales taxes - which I do not. I am however, happy to teach people how to make their own wine.
To download a PDF file containing my instructions click on this link: Wine, Dry Red - Recipe for 20 Gallons
You can scale it down to a 6 gallon batch if you like. I find it much more efficient to do 20 gallons at a time. This is a guide to help you get started. You can also get personal help from your local Wine Making Supply store. Check in the Yellow Pages or Online for "Wine Makers Equip and Supplies".
Here is a basic beginner's book you can buy, “The Art of Making Wine” by Anderson and Hull.