Uncorking your inner winemaker
Whether you're just getting started or have been uncorking your inner winemaker for years now, there is something for every level of vintner when it comes to winemaking.
Winemaking blends science, patience and artistry and allows hobbyists the satisfaction of turning simple ingredients into something more complex and personal.
Did you adopt any new hobbies as a result of the pandemic-forced exile? Many people found that diving into a new pastime helped relieve the stress of an uncertain time. One of those new hobbies is winemaking, popular for those who enjoy creativity and craftsmanship.
“The home winemaking hobby has grown in recent years,” says Jim Sperk of the Northern Ohio Wine Guild. “There are currently about 200 wine kits available for a variety of wines, including chardonnay, merlot, Riesling and cabernet that allow you to make wines in amounts from 5-16 gallons.”
Winemaking blends science, patience and artistry and allows hobbyists the satisfaction of turning simple ingredients into something more complex and personal.
There are also winemaking kits available for more obscure wines you won’t find in your local wine shop.
“There are kits for fruit and fruit-infused wines, low-calorie and low-alcohol wines,” says Jim. “The low, or no alcohol beverage industry is popular, especially with older Gen Z-ers and millennials. Making your own wine allows you to control the alcohol levels.”
For the novices not quite ready to make a large investment, winemaking kits don’t require a crusher/destemmer or winepress. All the needed ingredients are included in the kit.
“The juices are typically concentrated, and water is added to reach the 5-, 6- or 16-gallon mark,” says Jim. “You will need to supply a carboy or other fermentation vessel and bottles which family and friends can help collect and then recycle. Your bottle choice is one more way to add your own unique touch.”
Most winemaking kits are designed to complete the process in six weeks, although additional aging may be desired.
“If your goal is to create a cranberry wine to toast your Thanksgiving feast, or a sweet dessert wine for the holidays, you can get started this summer,” says Jim. “Handcrafted wines make great holiday gifts.”
If winemaking sounds overwhelming, Jim suggests reaching out to Northern Ohio Wine Guild members for advice.
“We have several award-winning members with years of experience,” says Jim. “Our goal is wine education and we’re here to help.”
For information about the Northern Ohio Wine Guild, contact Jim Sperk at tinymoonwines@usa.net.
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