Author: Bill Johnson

  • Pecan Wine Recipe – Try it out!

    Pecan Wine Recipe – Try it out!

    Pecan wine is not your typical wine variety. This unique beverage, crafted from the earthy, nutty kernels of the pecan tree, is a hidden gem among homemade wines. Its flavor profile is rich and complex, with notes of vanilla, caramel, and of course, toasted pecans, providing a truly unique tasting experience. So, what is my…

  • How Much Kieselsol Per Gallon Of Wine? (Answered!)

    How Much Kieselsol Per Gallon Of Wine? (Answered!)

    If you’re a home vintner or a professional winemaker, you’ve likely come across the term kieselsol during your wine clarification process. It’s a popular fining agent used in the wine industry to clear up your wine. But the question many people ask is, how much kieselsol per gallon of wine should you use? As a…

  • Adding Baking Soda To Wine? (Why and How To!)

    Adding Baking Soda To Wine? (Why and How To!)

    In the world of wine brewing, baking soda is probably one of the last ingredients you’d think of adding. However, it can be a real game-changer for those looking to enhance their homemade wine’s overall flavor profile. Why should you add baking soda to wine? Baking soda can help adjust the pH of your wine,…

  • Best Yeast For Cherry Wine (My 3 Top Choices!)

    Best Yeast For Cherry Wine (My 3 Top Choices!)

    As any seasoned brewer knows, the key to a great wine lies in the fermentation process, and the most important component of that process is yeast. Yeast is responsible for converting the sugar in the fruit into alcohol, and the type of yeast used can greatly influence the flavor, aroma, and overall quality of the…

  • 10 Wines Similar to Stella Rosa (Great Alternatives!)

    10 Wines Similar to Stella Rosa (Great Alternatives!)

    Stella Rosa has gained popularity as a delicious, sweet red wine, known for its fruity flavors and approachable taste. If you are looking to explore other wines similar to Stella Rosa, there are several fantastic alternatives available. These alternatives offer unique flavors and characteristics that can appeal to your taste preferences if you like the…

  • How Long Does Wine Take To Ferment?

    How Long Does Wine Take To Ferment?

    Today we will be discussing a topic that has puzzled many a novice wine maker: how long does wine take to ferment? As an experienced brewer, I’ve had the opportunity to see firsthand the effects of various factors on the fermentation process. And while there are many variables that can affect the length of time…

  • Do Wine Bottles Explode In The Freezer?

    Do Wine Bottles Explode In The Freezer?

    Yes, wine bottles can explode in the freezer. Most wines, both red and white, have a freezing point of around 15-20 degrees Fahrenheit, and most household freezers are set at 0 degrees. So, if you leave a bottle of wine in the freezer for long enough, it can freeze, causing the wine to expand, the…

  • How To Rack Wine Without A Siphon?

    How To Rack Wine Without A Siphon?

    Racking wine is an essential part of the winemaking process. It involves transferring the wine from one container to another, leaving the sediment behind. This process helps to clarify the wine, improve its flavor, and prevent off-odors and off-tastes. However, many home winemakers may wonder: how do you rack a wine without a siphon? The…

  • How Long Can I Put Sparkling Wine In The Freezer?

    How Long Can I Put Sparkling Wine In The Freezer?

    Having been in the world of brewing for several years, I have often been asked about the optimal storage methods for various types of beverages. One question that frequently comes up is: “How long can I put sparkling wine in the freezer (without damaging the bottle)?” The short answer: Ideally, no more than 1-2 hours.…

  • Is Secondary Fermentation Necessary For Wine?

    Is Secondary Fermentation Necessary For Wine?

    When it comes to the art of winemaking, there are many steps and techniques that are often debated among vintners. One of these is the process of secondary fermentation. Is secondary fermentation necessary for wine? Well, it depends. Not all wines require secondary fermentation, but it can be a crucial step for certain styles and…