Author: Bill Johnson

  • Pectic Enzyme in Cider Brewing: Uses and Alternatives!

    Pectic Enzyme in Cider Brewing: Uses and Alternatives!

    As a brewer, you may have come across the term “pectic enzyme” and wondered what it is and what it does. Pectic enzyme (also called pectinase) is an important ingredient in the brewing of cider and wine. Pectic enzyme is a type of enzyme that breaks down pectins. Pectins are found in the cell walls…

  • What Is A Good Sweet White Wine? (Best ones listed!)

    What Is A Good Sweet White Wine? (Best ones listed!)

    A lot of people are intimidated by wine, thinking it’s too snooty or complicated. But it doesn’t have to be! Choosing a good sweet white wine is not always trivial, as these are often associated with the cheaper, less acidic and full-bodied wines or those exclusively used for desserts. As a general rule, wines grown…

  • Tawny vs Ruby Port: Which Is Best? For Cocktails?

    Tawny vs Ruby Port: Which Is Best? For Cocktails?

    As a professional brewer and microbiologist, I’ve spent years studying and savoring various wines. My passion doesn’t just stop at understanding the microscopic intricacies of fermentation; it delves deep into the sensory experiences that each wine brings. Today, we’re journeying into the world of port wines, specifically examining the differences between Tawny and Ruby ports.…

  • How Long Does Homemade Wine Last?

    How Long Does Homemade Wine Last?

    As a seasoned home brewer, one question that I often get asked is “how long does homemade wine last?” The answer to this question is not as straightforward as it might seem. The longevity of homemade wine greatly depends on a variety of factors including the type of wine, the quality of the ingredients used,…

  • Does Wine Go Bad If Left In A Hot Car? Here’s Why!

    Does Wine Go Bad If Left In A Hot Car? Here’s Why!

    Yes, wine does go bad if left in a hot car. The main reason is that heat can cause the wine to age prematurely, which negatively affects its taste and quality. In this blog post, I will delve into the specifics of why this happens, how you can prevent it, and what you can do…