About the Wine Making Process

What does "on-premise" wine making really mean, and what has it to do with me?

Well first off, it's not Lucy and Ethel in the vat, mashing grapes.  It's much simpler, and a lot less messy.  Basically, you go to a store, in this case, you got to Wine & Roses at in Sechelt and bottle wine that has been made from either concentrate or pure juice.

You get lots of help, it costs lots less than regular store bought, and guess what?  It tastes great too.  (Some say it's even healthier ....)

And how does all this happen?

First, you come to Wine & Roses and talk to us.  We`ll tell you all about the different wines from aroundthe world that you can make.  If there is a certain "store bought" that you like,we can match the taste.  So pick you choice, pay for your selection, and you're on your way!

The first step is to add the ingredients to start the fermentation which is yeast and anything else necessary. 

That's it for visit number one.

The wine stays  in the store while it ferments, and depending on what you've chosen, could take anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks before it's ready to bottle.

Now what?

Okay, so you`ve been patient and it`s now time to bottle.  Bring enough clean wine bottles (each batch will give you thirty 750ml bottles of wine). Using the store equipment you sterilize and rinse your bottles to get rid of any impurities.  Then the wine gets bottled (takes about 25 minutes) and you cork 'em, label 'em and you're done!  Well, not quite ....

Why not?

After you get your wine home there is still a bit more waiting to let it "bottle age".  Your bottles should be kept upright for 3 to 5 days,  then stored on their side -  a cool, dry place is best.  While your wine may be enjoyed right away, it,s best if it sits for 7 days to 12 weeks.  Remember, the longer it sits, the better it sips.

That's it?

Oh, one last thing.  Don`t forget to book an appointment for your next batch --- because you'll be back for more -- sooner than you think.