Wine-wizard

Would a welding supply company be a good source of argon gas for winemaking?

Wine-wizard

I just bought my first barrel and opted for a paraffin-lined model. Will this work or do I need charred barrels for wine aging?

Wine-wizard

When I opened my blueberry-Zinfandel wine I was struck by a strong acetone-type smell. Am I experiencing bottle sickness or TCA?

Wine-wizard

A sediment like fine sand is appearing in my homemade wine after it is opened. Can you tell me what’s going on?

Wine-wizard

What does “surely” mean when referring to winemaking? I can’t find a definition anywhere.

Wine-wizard

How do I adjust my wine’s pH without changing the TA?

Wine-wizard

I’ve read you can use bananas to give body to thin wines. Can you please explain why this works and any impact on flavor?

Wine-wizard

Is it better to separate free-run wine from the pressed wine during fermentation and should they be blended before bottling if you are making Zinfandel?

Our Zinfandel wine is now in secondary fermenters, with free-run wine separate from the pressed. Do you have advice on allowing the free and

Wine-wizard

What can cause homemade wine to have a slight “vinegar” taste?

Wine-wizard

I did not rehydrate my yeast before I pitched it. How do I do this and what happens if I don’t?

Wine-wizard

What does toasting add to oak flavor? Can I use a blowtorch on an oak plank to toast it, cut it in thin strips and add to my wine?

Wine-wizard

How many pounds of grapes will make five gallons (19 L) of wine? Are there guidelines for reds and whites and varieties within each of those groups?

Wine-wizard

I’ve heard homemade wines go bad after two years. What causes that and how can I prevent it?

Wine-wizard

There is a yellow ring around the top of the wine in my carboy, but the wine tastes and smells fine. What’s with the yellow ring?

Wine-wizard

My cherry wine has a bitter/tart taste. Is there any way to remove this?

Wine-wizard

What is the best way for a home winemaker to make fortified wines?

Wine-wizard

What is the shelf life for dry yeast? Is there anything I can do to revive it and will it work?

Wine-wizard

Can you give me some guidelines on whether or not to add sulfite to my wine?

Wine-wizard

Do you know why my blackberry wine’s color precipitates out?

Wine-wizard

How can I make homemade sparkling wine?