Invite your friends to a wine-making party

(NC)—If the economic slowdown worldwide is hindering your social life, why not throw a party to make and personalize all the wine yourself?

The technique and the ingredients have progressed to such an extent even beginners are using 100 percent pure grape juice from some of the world's most celebrated vineyards. Specialized, pre-measured wine kits minimize mistakes and perhaps this is why current data shows that one in every five bottles of wine now is produced as a hobby.

“Better still, the cost of consumer-made wine is a fraction of the store-bought equivalent,” says David Long of the Canadian Craft Winemakers Association. “And it's true that the process of creating one's very own vintage—with premium ingredients and step-by step instructions—is also a whole lot of fun.”

Take a look at www.winemadesimple.ca for ideas and information. You will see that there are more than 1,400 winemaking stores in most provinces of Canada, each one ready to supply your needs and guide you through the process.

Two Options

1. At the winemaking shop:

• You will be supplied with a clean and sterilized fermentor pail for pre-measured juice. Sprinkle the yeast to start fermentation, a lengthy process that turns the juice to wine;

• It will take six to eight weeks, depending on the quality you have chosen. In this period, challenge your party group to create the perfect name and label design. The winemaker will advise when your vintage is ready to be bottled and an appointment will be set for you to return to the store;

• Bottling usually takes around 45 minutes. Once completed, you will cork your 23 litres in approximately 30 bottles complete with professional shrink caps and labels.

2. At home:

• If you prefer more independence—or if you intend to throw winemaking parties regularly—a one-time investment in equipment is required. All the ingredients and instructions are included with the wine kit, although tips and advice are always available from your winemaker store if needed. The complete process takes about two hours spread over six to eight weeks.

Tell your friends you saw this article on Taste of Vancouver .com

-------------------------------------------
About The Author
Credit: www.newscanada.com
-------------------------------------------

Top of Page

(12-2009)

We would love to hear your comments on this article,
To make your comments email us at info@tasteofvancouver.com

The information presented and opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of Taste Of Vancouver and/or its /subsidiaries/partners. Please read our Privacy/Disclaimer Statement.