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Wine Making FAQ

Is making wine difficult?
Not at all. Anyone who can follow a simple recipe can make wine! However, like any new adventure, there are basic things to learn. These things can be found in a book or on the internet, but The Home Brew Barn suggest you take an introductory class.

Is taking a class a big commitment?
Introductory classes are one session and take about two hours. The cost of the classes are usually $35 and by taking the class, you will be making great wine quicker!

Do I have to take a class to make wine?
No you do not;however, by taking a class at The Home Brew Barn you will experience superior results. This is largely due to the fact that you will actually see how wine is made from a kit. Seeing all of the equipment and supplies and how they are utilized maximizes your success.

How much of my time will it take?
Most wine kits can be made in an hour or less. When you make the first batch it may take a little longer because you are learning the process and setting up your "wine kitchen"

Do I need a special area to make the wine?
No it can be made, fermented and bottled right in your kitchen. To prepare the must (unfermented wine) all you need is a normal work size area and sink. The must ferments in a container the size of a water cooler bottle.

How much wine would I make at a time?
The typical batch of wine is 6 gallons or 30-750 ml bottles (2 1/2 cases). 3 gallon batches are also common and yield 15 750ml bottles; these are usually specialty type wines.

Is it expensive to make my own wine?
It will cost between $2.50 and $5.00 per bottle depending on the type of wine kit. The Home Brew Barn offers various equipment making kits. These kits range from basic (ready in four weeks) to "All Juice" where they can aged for a year, making a superior bottle of wine. The inexpensive basic equipment kit gets you started , and you can add or change equipment as you go. The complete kit has everything needed to make your first batch of wine.

Is it legal for me to make wine?
Yes, it has been legal since 1978. A head of household over the age of 21 (adult) can make up to 100 gallons of wine a year. Two adults can make 200 gallons- that's nearly 1000 bottles of wine!