Home Winemaking
Part 1: Choosing a Store
No matter what kind of wine you're making, or what stage of the winemaking learning process you're in, you'll need some sorts of supplies. These may be basic winemaking kits, grape concentrate, or even advanced corking systems for turning your backyard vine's grapes into a fine merlot. No matter what kinds of supplies you may need, the process for choosing a fine store is the same.
Get Recommendations
Perhaps the most reliable source of knowledge about a store is first-hand information from friends of yours who make wine or beer. They can tell you if the prices are reasonable, if the store staff is knowledgeable, if they have supplies in stock and if they're able to help you if you're stuck. Even a small shop with one roomful of supplies can be your best choice if they have everything you need and have an owner willing to work with you step by step.
Comparison Shop
Take a wander through not only this shop, but one or two others you find appealing, to see for yourself if they match your style, have what you're looking for, or can help you if you don't know yet what you need! These can be real shops down the block, or "virtual shops" on the internet. There are many fine on line shops that have people who can get back to you the next day with the answers to your many questions. Supplies can be shipped overnight in times of emergency.
Don't concentrate just on prices when you do this comparison, although prices are important. You don't necessarily want to get bargain-basement prices for something that will only break in a week, or for something you didn't really need anyway. Working with someone who can really help you learn and grow is worth far more than 5 cents off a corker.
Introduce Yourself
Great, you've made a choice. Now introduce yourself to the staff! Explain what you're looking to do, and what you'd like to spend to do it. Work with them on choosing equipment, and ask as many questions as you need to to feel comfortable. You want to build a relationsihp with these people, so when you come in again, they remember what you're doing and can help you with any new questions you might have.
You'll find most winemakers are a friendly bunch, willing to help out, interested in the types of wines others are making. Everyone can learn something from everyone else!
Spread the Word
If you find a great shop, whether in real life or on the net, be sure to let others know! Your good word will help them stay around, providing more of that good service to yourself and to others.
Links to Winemaking Shop Webpages
All About Home Winemaking
Winemaking Main Page
All content on the WineIntro website is personally written by author and wine enthusiast Lisa Shea. WineIntro explores the delicious variety and beautiful history which makes up our world of wine! Lisa loves supporting local wineries and encouraging people to drink whatever they like. We all have different taste buds, and that makes our world wonderful. Always drink responsibly.