Reviews

Cloudy wine is not necessarily bad wine, but most winemakers prefer clarity. Understanding the various clarification methods—and when to use each—helps you achieve the appearance...

Racking is the process of transferring wine from one container to another, leaving sediment behind. Done correctly, it clarifies your wine and prevents off-flavors. Done...

Secondary fermentation is where your wine develops character. The violent activity of primary gives way to subtle transformation as remaining sugars ferment, sediment settles, and...

Primary fermentation is where the magic happens—sugar becomes alcohol, and grape juice transforms into wine. Understanding this process helps you manage it effectively and troubleshoot...

Yeast selection is one of the most consequential decisions in winemaking. Different strains produce dramatically different results from identical must. Here is how to choose...

Sanitization is not glamorous, but it separates successful winemakers from people who wonder why their wine tastes like vinegar. Understanding the difference between cleaning and...

Good winemaking does not require expensive equipment—but it does require the right equipment. Here is what you actually need to make wine at home, from...

Grapes are not all created equal—and selecting the right ones is arguably the most important decision you will make as a home winemaker. Great wine...

Your first batch of wine will probably not be great. Mine was not. Most first attempts fall somewhere between “drinkable but flawed” and “scientific experiment...

Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut – My Go-To Celebration Sparkler I keep a bottle of Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut in my fridge at all times. Not...