Everything about the brewing, tasting and drinking of wine. Traditional as well as wild and fruit wines.
As a home brewer and frequent traveler, I have often wondered if carrying my prized bottles of champagne in my checked luggage would result in an explosive disaster. And even though I never experienced this myself (always drank my champagne before flying…), I have spent time researching, experimenting, and even consulting experts to answer this…
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…
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…
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.…
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…
As a brewer, I’ve been asked many times about the temperature needed to kill yeas in winemaking. Understanding the right temperature for yeast is critical because it’s the main driving force behind fermentation process. When the temperature is too high, you risk killing the yeast, and when it’s too low, the yeast may become inactive.…
Shaoxing wine is a famous Chinese cooking wine that has been used for centuries in various dishes and sauces. It is made from fermented rice and has a unique, rich flavor that adds depth to many recipes. Many people wonder how long does Shaoxing wine last and how to store it properly. In this blog…
Tej, also known as Ethiopian honey wine, is a traditional fermented beverage that holds great importance in Ethiopian culture. It is made from a mix of honey, water, and gesho leaves, which give it a distinct flavor. Tej is often enjoyed during festive occasions and is considered a symbol of hospitality. History and Cultural Significance…
A terzo of wine refers to a measurement of wine, specifically a third of a liter or approximately 11.3 ounces. The terzo is a traditional Italian measurement, and it’s most commonly used in the context of wine bars and restaurants in Italy. In this blog post, I will discuss a variety of topics related to…
As a brewer with experience in both the beer and wine industries, I often get asked an interesting question: How many beers is a bottle of champagne? To answer this question, we need to consider various factors such as alcohol content, serving sizes, and the overall drinking experience. In terms of alcohol content, a standard…