2017 Field Red Blend Recipe

Directions

1. 1

   Prepare the Grapes

   Wash the red wine grapes thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides. Remove the stems and place the grapes in a large bowl.

2. 2

   Crush the Grapes

   Using your hands or a potato masher, crush the grapes to release their juice. Ensure that the skins remain intact for color and flavor extraction.

3. 3

   Prepare the Must

   Transfer the crushed grapes (must) to a fermentation container. Add 2 cups of water and 1 cup of sugar to the must and stir well until the sugar is dissolved.

4. 4

   Add Yeast

   Sprinkle the yeast over the surface of the must and gently stir it in. Cover the container with a clean cloth or fermentation lid to allow gases to escape while keeping contaminants out.

5. 5

   Fermentation

   Allow the must to ferment at room temperature (around 70°F/21°C) for 7-14 days. Stir the mixture daily and monitor the fermentation process.

6. 6

   Secondary Fermentation

   After primary fermentation, strain the liquid from the solids into another clean container. If you're using oak chips, add them now. Seal the container and let it ferment for an additional 2-4 weeks.

7. 7

   Sulfite Addition

   If desired, add sulfites to the wine for preservation. This step is optional but recommended to improve shelf life.

8. 8

   Bottling

   Once fermentation is complete, transfer the wine into clean bottles, leaving some space at the top. Seal the bottles with corks or caps.

9. 9

   Aging

   Store the bottles in a cool, dark place for at least 6 months to a year to allow the flavors to mature.

10. 10

    Serve

    After aging, chill the wine slightly if desired and serve in wine glasses. Enjoy your homemade 2017 Field Red Blend!