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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) How do I make Wine at Home? It really is almost as simple as smash up some grapes and wait! Many home winemakers also make fruit (or 'country') wines in the off-season. The basics of Home Winemaking are covered in many inexpensive books and recipes. Most are easy to follow and come from such places as UC Davis and the Bordeaux region of France. Do I Need to Know Chemistry? While the making of wine is a biochemical proceedure, the basics are quite simple. In many cases, recipies can be followed and your tastebuds trusted to produce good wines. Using a few simple tests and taking a few measurements are all the additional help needed to add a professional touch to home winemaking. Is it Expensive? Even those 'amateurs' who travel to Napa to buy their ton of grapes each year spend less than $5 a bottle to produce premium Cabernet Sauvignons and Chardonnays. Many common grape varieties are available at half to two-thirds that price. What Equipment Do I Need? Home winemaking can be started in a plastic garbage can! Most home winemakers spend a bit more for 'food grade' plastic, but many don't. Add a few 5 gallon glass water bottles to age in, recycle some wine bottles, a hand corker and you are well on your way. Home winemaking starter kits cost from $50, fairly complete, and usually include a good beginning text. Many also include a starter kit for making your first batch of home-made wine. Where do I Go to Get Started? Cellarmasters' meetings and classes (often free!), of course. There are a few Wine and Beer making supply stores in the LA area. You can check in the phone book under Winemaking Supplies! The best shop around for both equipment, books and knowledge is The Home Wine, Beer and Cheese Making Shop in Woodland Hills. The owner also owns a boutique premium winery in Ventura County! Contact John Daumé at 'the Shop' at (818) 884-8586. Be sure to ask when the next Cellarmasters Wine Making class is being held. There are also quite a few resources for the home winemaker on the Internet. Try searching for 'winemaking' on your browser or check out our Message Board for help, advice and some lively threads! How Can I Learn More? See our Winemaking Advice page which
provides an extensive knowledge base on the art and science of winemaking. |
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