How to Make Wine Your Friends Actually Enjoy

I was frugal in my college days. Paying for tuition, books, and such, seized most of my summer savings. That meant stretching the cash I had for bar hopping. Then, I discovered the joy of winemaking (or so I thought). After all, knowing how to make wine was not rocket science. Just procure a large glass gallon jug, a balloon, grape juice, and yeast. Presto changeo, in a few short weeks, the nectar of the gods would flow into my [paper] goblet.

I’m sure you know the rest of the story.

Unless the gods had poor taste, I am positive I did not drink nectar. Far from it.  

What did I know back then? The answer was simple. Nothing. With no internet, I was left to figure it out. I didn’t. And, after all the complaints about the yeasty smell in the hallway. . . well, you get the picture.

How to Make Wine is Easy with Today's Technology

Hobbyists interested in winemaking have information ad nauseum via the internet. Everything from the how-to to buying quality equipment and everything in between...with the possible exception of the finer points of winemaking. Sure, following a recipe, using the best fermenters, or designing a cool label might be helpful. However, trial and error can help, or better yet, a mentor who is already successful will make a difference. What does this have to do with winemakers from Wisconsin’s wineries? Many of them got their start watching parents and grandparents make homemade wine. Several started as hobbyists.

Perhaps you have or are considering becoming a winemaking hobbyist. You may have stopped at some wineries and thought, “I bet I could do this.” In addition to a plethora of information on the internet, several retail stores occasionally offer classes on how to make wine. Classes are also available on all things wine if you are committed to starting your own winery. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves.

Check out these resources if you are serious about learning how to make wine.

Winemaking classes and equipment:

• The Purple Foot, Greenfield, WI

• Wine Beginnings, Superior, WI

• Duck Creek Winery, Denmark, WI

• Wine and Hop Shop, Madison, WI

Of course, you can always stop at one of the many wineries across Wisconsin and ask them how they got started. Most love to talk and encourage people if they have the time. Why not check one out today?