August-September 2024
Master the Backyard Harvest
Wes Hagen lays out last-minute advice to maximize this make-or-break day as home viticulturists gear up for harvest.
Sourcing Grapes from Grape Suppliers
Buying grapes from a supplier allows access to varieties from regions of the world that would otherwise be inaccessible to home winemakers. We lay out seven critical points to consider before making your purchase.
Sourcing Grapes Directly from Vineyards
Going directly to the source to buy your grapes from local vineyards allows home winemakers to work with grapes harvested the same day, though it requires a lot of legwork at the quantities amateurs are after. Get advice to make the task easier.
Easy-Drinking Fermented Beverages
Interested in trying a new type of fermentation? Try your hand at three easy-drinking, low-alcohol drinks that hit the spot in the summer sun or after a long day of harvesting: Tepache, ginger beer, and kefir soda.
2024 WineMaker Magazine Conference
Local wine professionals, industry experts, and top winemaking hobbyists gathered in the birthplace of American wine — Charlottesville, Virginia — to lead days of seminars and events at the 2024 WineMaker Magazine Conference.
Browning in Red Wines, MLF Test Strips, & Maple Wine
The Wine Wizard fields questions on eliminating (and avoiding) browning in red wines, malolactic fermentation test strips, and techniques for making wine from maple sap.
Black Muscat
Black Muscat first gained popularity in France and is gaining steam in California due to its great aromatics and versatility. Whether turning it into a red table wine, dry rosé, dessert wine, or even grappa, Black Muscat is a unique grape to consider.
School of Thought
With so many wine certification programs available, how do you know which may be the best fit for you? We break down some of the differences in four of the most popular.