How To Enjoy The Fine Art of Home Winemaking, Part 1

The fine art of home winemaking is becoming more and more popular these days.  The mystique and subtle nuances of wine give it far more appeal than that of a typical alcoholic beverage.  The allure of wine is an enduring one, fueled by the subtle character that it possesses.  Over the last ten years or so home winemaking has become more and more popular as a hobby.  In many areas, home winemaking has become all the rage and captured the attention of entire communities.  Local groups have formed so that enthusiasts can learn all they can about the fine art of winemaking.  Some wine buffs have even started formed clubs or organized competitions.

Home Winemaking Two Cases At A Time

Because wine does take a fairly significant time to make, you want to produce it in reasonable quantities during the home winemaking process.  A 20 liter oak barrel will produce approximately 24 bottles of wine.  That is enough wine to keep you in good supply, with enough left over to share with family and friends.  The small barrel is quite suitable for home winemaking.  The barrel's smaller surface area results in the wine absorbing the oak flavor a lot faster than if a bigger barrel were used.  This helps to speed up the home winemaking process.

Smooth, Mellow Home Winemaking

The next time you dream about brewing your next batch, try using oak barrels.  You'll end up with a smooth, melllow cocktail that is both complex and delicious.  If you use a five liter barrel for your home winemaking project, the aging process with take approximately 6-8 weeks.  Using a smaller one or two litter barrel will reduce the aging time even more.  A similar method is used during Solera aging processes.  These result in a rich, deep wine that also comes with a surprisingly bright touch.

You can find many recipes online for barrel-aged home winemaking and cocktails.  Simple mixtures appear to work the best, like St. Nick (brandy and cranberry liquer), Brandy Manhattans (brandy and sweet vermouth), Saratogas (vermouth, brandy and whiskey) and Negronis (gin, sweet vermouth and Campanri).  Once you think your home winemaking project or cocktail has aged to perfection, filter the beverage into a glass jar or pitcher using cheesecloth.  It will keep indefinitely.