
Sparkling Wine
A refreshing and bubbly homemade sparkling wine perfect for celebrations.
30 mins
Prep Time
14 days
Cook Time
6
Servings
Ingredients
- 1 gallon of grape juice (white or red)
- 2 cups of sugar
- 1 packet of champagne yeast
- 1 lemon (juiced)
- 1 gallon of water (filtered)
Nutrition Facts
Instructions
Sanitize all equipment: Ensure all bottles, fermenting containers, and utensils are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized to prevent contamination.
Prepare the grape juice: Pour the grape juice into a large fermenting container. Add sugar and stir until completely dissolved.
Add lemon juice: Squeeze the juice of one lemon into the mixture to balance the sweetness and add a hint of acidity.
Activate the yeast: Follow the instructions on the champagne yeast packet to activate it. Usually, this involves dissolving it in warm water for 10 minutes.
Combine and ferment: Add the activated yeast to the grape juice mixture. Stir gently, then cover with an airlock to allow gases to escape while preventing contaminants from entering.
Fermentation: Let the mixture ferment in a cool, dark place for about 14 days. Check periodically to ensure fermentation is progressing smoothly.
Bottle the wine: Once fermentation is complete, carefully siphon the wine into clean bottles, leaving sediment behind. Seal tightly.
Carbonation: For natural carbonation, add a small amount of sugar to each bottle before sealing. Store the bottles upright for 1-2 weeks to build bubbles.
Chill and serve: Refrigerate the bottles before serving to enhance the bubbly texture and flavor.
Chef's Tips
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality grape juice for the best flavor. Freshly squeezed juice is ideal if available.
- Temperature Control: Maintain a consistent temperature during fermentation (around 60-70°F) for optimal results.
- Patience is Key: Allow enough time for fermentation and carbonation to develop the best flavor and bubbles.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add fruits like strawberries or peaches during fermentation for a unique twist.
- Storage: Store finished bottles in a cool, dark place to preserve the wine’s quality and carbonation.