Featured

February 15, 2022

Our Top 10 Articles on Winemaking, Homebrewing, and Cider Making

Tips, tricks, techniques - everything you’ve wanted to know about beer, wine, and cidermaking are covered in our top 10 most viewed blog articles! Were we a little surprised that only 3 of these are about winemaking? Yes. Were we surprised that the #1 article is not about winemaking or homebrewi..... Read More

Tips, tricks, techniques - everything you’ve wanted to know about beer, wine, and cidermaking are covered in our top..... Read More

Featured

April 23, 2025

Wine on Tap is Your Summer MVP

That's right, you can keg your wine! As the days get longer and the weather warms up, there’s one beverage trend that’s pouring into all the right places—kegged wine. Whether you're beach-bound, headed to a backyard BBQ, or camping under the stars, wine on tap is changing the game. 1. Skip the G..... Read More

That's right, you can keg your wine! As the days get longer and the weather warms up, there’s one beverage trend tha..... Read More

Featured

November 04, 2019

Instructions on How to Make Hard Cider

Brewing hard cider from nonalcoholic, or “sweet” cider is a simple process, and the inebriating end product is as delicious as it is discombobulating. Here are the steps you’ll follow to make hard cider of your own.    Checklist of Cider Brewing Equipment 5 Gal. Stainless Steel brewing pot L..... Read More

Brewing hard cider from nonalcoholic, or “sweet” cider is a simple process, and the inebriating end product is as d..... Read More

Featured

July 01, 2021

How to Fix a Stuck Wine Fermentation

Hydrometer readings for three consecutive days, and the reading remains the same and is higher than 1.000, it's probably stuck. Make sure you have a good airtight seal at your Airlock. Ensure that the airlock is firmly seated in the Bung, and the bung is securely seated in the mouth of the Carbo..... Read More

Hydrometer readings for three consecutive days, and the reading remains the same and is higher than 1.000, it's prob..... Read More

Featured

January 25, 2021

Dandelion Wine Recipe

Dandelions: The bane of your pristine yard’s existence or your favorite new herb to add to your wine? Whether you consider it a flower or a weed, this perennial herb has many uses! From root to flower, the entire plant is edible and better yet - drinkable (once you’ve turned it into wine)... Read More

Dandelions: The bane of your pristine yard’s existence or your favorite new herb to add to your wine? Whether you con..... Read More

Featured

November 28, 2020

How to Use Campden Tablets

Initially, Campden Tablets are used to kill off any potentially harmful bacteria that may may be present in the base ingredients used in winemaking, and to discourage any wild yeast from gaining a foothold. Campden will not kill yeast, but it creates an environment inhospitable to them. As sulfur..... Read More

Initially, Campden Tablets are used to kill off any potentially harmful bacteria that may may be present in the base ..... Read More

Featured

November 05, 2019

Instructions on How to Grow Hops

Growing hop rhizomes is truly something special. Being able to add an ingredient that you’ve grown yourself is not something that every homebrewer can claim... Read More

Growing hop rhizomes is truly something special. Being able to add an ingredient that you’ve grown yourself is not so..... Read More

Featured

October 25, 2019

What if my Fermenting Wine has a Sulfur Smell?

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is the rotten egg odor you smell, and it usually forms at the end of fermentation. Most home winemakers won’t notice a smelly problem until the first racking. If you do smell rotten eggs, the quicker you can act, the better your chances of saving the wine. If your wine is n..... Read More

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is the rotten egg odor you smell, and it usually forms at the end of fermentation. Most home w..... Read More

Featured

August 25, 2020

Oaking Wine with Barrels, Spirals, Cubes, and Chips

Oak adds a compelling complexity to wine. You should make sure the kind of wine you want to make is well suited for oak since it is more expensive and more work. For example, just about any high tannin red wine will benefit. Many whites such as chardonnay or Sauvignon blanc will benefit as well. ..... Read More

Oak adds a compelling complexity to wine. You should make sure the kind of wine you want to make is well suited for o..... Read More

Featured

May 04, 2020

How to Make Wine

If you’re looking to make wine, it’s actually quite easy to get started with wine recipe kits. Using wine kits is the best place to start your wine making journey because kits simplify the wine making process from grape to glass. Wine kits allow you to create amazing wine with much less wine ma..... Read More

If you’re looking to make wine, it’s actually quite easy to get started with wine recipe kits. Using wine kits is t..... Read More

Featured

April 30, 2025

How to Make Wine From Grapes

There are five basic components or steps to making wine: harvesting, crushing and pressing, fermentation, clarification, and aging and bottling... Read More

There are five basic components or steps to making wine: harvesting, crushing and pressing, fermentation, clarificati..... Read More

Featured

July 25, 2020

How To Make Hard Seltzer

Hard seltzer is hot right now and it’s a breeze to make. Having variety in your cellar is key to keeping everyone happy and a hard seltzer is pretty darn tasty on a hot day... Read More

Hard seltzer is hot right now and it’s a breeze to make. Having variety in your cellar is key to keeping everyone hap..... Read More

Featured

October 25, 2019

How to Keg and Force Carbonate Your Homebrew

In olden times, beer was stored in wooden casks but now we use aluminum or stainless steel kegs to carbonate, store, and serve our beer. Here are some tips and simple instructions for kegging your beer. Draught beer refers to beer which is stored and served from a keg or cask.  A corny keg is e..... Read More

In olden times, beer was stored in wooden casks but now we use aluminum or stainless steel kegs to carbonate, store,..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Taking Care of Wine Corks

Corks, the original kind, are made from the bark of the Cork Oak, which is harvested once every 20 years without endangering the trees’ life. For centuries they were simply punched-out cylinders of cleaned bark, but innovation has brought many kinds of manufactured corks, along with some made en..... Read More

Corks, the original kind, are made from the bark of the Cork Oak, which is harvested once every 20 years without end..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Pairing Wine with Cheese

Wine and cheese, the phrase itself conjures a fun and classy way to enjoy two of the best things in the world—together! It's even better when you make your own wine and make your own cheese! But not every wine goes well with every cheese. If you're planning a fromage and vino pairing soiree, a l..... Read More

Wine and cheese, the phrase itself conjures a fun and classy way to enjoy two of the best things in the world—togeth..... Read More

October 25, 2019

No Bake Cannoli Cake

Prep: 30 min Chill: 5-7 hours Yield: 12 Servings "Leave the gun.Take the cannoli.” Some of the best movie dialogue is not scripted, but improvised, like these immortal words from The Godfather. This cake is an easy, improv version of the classic Italian dessert...made even better with fres..... Read More

Prep: 30 min Chill: 5-7 hours Yield: 12 Servings "Leave the gun.Take the cannoli.” Some of the best movie dial..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Mac and Cheese and Homebrew

Prep: 25 minutes Cook: 55 mins Yield: 6-8 servings I’m all for convenience, but some things are flat-out worth the effort. Like this recipe, which combines two of my favorite hobbies – homebrewing and cheesemaking. Sure…you could make mac n’ cheese out of a box mix. Just like you could buy..... Read More

Prep: 25 minutes Cook: 55 mins Yield: 6-8 servings I’m all for convenience, but some things are flat-out worth..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Sweet & Spicy Summer Salad

Prep: 20 min Yield: 6 servings When it’s too hot to cook, this easy summer salad is one of my favorites to enjoy during a late night dinner under the stars. The salty tang of the fresh feta is heightened by the sweet watermelon. But don’t let those flavors fool you. I also add a bit of hea..... Read More

Prep: 20 min Yield: 6 servings When it’s too hot to cook, this easy summer salad is one of my favorites to enj..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Cheesy Chorizo Jalapeño Poppers

Prep: 45 min Cook: 15 min Yield: 14 Servings Ingredients 1 pound Mexican chorizo sausage (not the cured Spanish style) 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 6 ounces shredded cheddar cheese 22 large jalapeño peppers, halved lengthwise and seeded 1 cup whole milk 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup d..... Read More

Prep: 45 min Cook: 15 min Yield: 14 Servings Ingredients 1 pound Mexican chorizo sausage (not the cured Span..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Grilled Corn, Bacon & Queso Pico de Gallo

Prep: 15 min Chill: 30 min Yield: 8 Servings You think people ooh and ahh when you bring fresh guacamole to a gathering? Try this fresh take on party dip. The char from the grill, combined with the bite of the peppers and cool queso fresco... it’s like an explosion of fresh flavors that wi..... Read More

Prep: 15 min Chill: 30 min Yield: 8 Servings You think people ooh and ahh when you bring fresh guacamole to a ..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Pull-Apart Margherita Mozzarella Pizza Bombs

Prep: 30 min Cook: 20 min Yield: 6 servings How do you improve upon pizza? That’s not just a philosophical question. I took that challenge seriously. The result: These delicious pizza bombs made with fresh mozz that stretches for days. That’s the biggest difference between fresh cheese and..... Read More

Prep: 30 min Cook: 20 min Yield: 6 servings How do you improve upon pizza? That’s not just a philosophical que..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Filtering Wine

Sometimes it seems like filtering is the final frontier of home winemaking. For every winemaker who filters, there are dozens who don’t. Some because the wine is just fine without filtering (and it is!), others because they don’t want to bother with the extra step or the expense, and others bec..... Read More

Sometimes it seems like filtering is the final frontier of home winemaking. For every winemaker who filters, there ..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Cheese Making With Tim Vandergrift

Among my many Attention Surplus Disorder activities like making wine [of course], curing my own meats, making pickles, brewing beer, making bread, gardening, making cider, roasting my own coffee, making soap, and whatever catches my eye this week, I like to make my own cheese. I can't claim to..... Read More

Among my many Attention Surplus Disorder activities like making wine [of course], curing my own meats, making pick..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Types of Cheese

Cheese can be as varied as wine when it comes to flavor and appearance. Be brave and experience each variety, you may be surprised at what becomes your favorite. Herbed Chèvre Fresh and light: cheeses that have not been aged, or are only lightly cured. These mild and creamy, and have a high..... Read More

Cheese can be as varied as wine when it comes to flavor and appearance. Be brave and experience each variety, you ma..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Coffee Roasted with Wine

Wine and Coffee, a Match Made In the Roaster A darn fine cup of coffee Last year I was visiting Master Vintner HQ and while I was there, Brewmaster Brad gave me a couple of pounds of green coffee beans that had been aged in a bourbon barrel. They smelled strongly of vanilla and toasty oak,..... Read More

Wine and Coffee, a Match Made In the Roaster A darn fine cup of coffee Last year I was visiting Master Vintner..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Wine and Beef Pairings

Pairing wine and food should be fun. It intimidates some people, as though there were really a wrong way to enjoy good food and good wine, and it could spoil your whole day. Nothing could be further from the truth—the one real rule is that any wine you want to drink, with any food that you wa..... Read More

Pairing wine and food should be fun. It intimidates some people, as though there were really a wrong way to enjoy..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Wine Braised Beef Short Ribs Recipe

The tannins in Cabernets Sauvignon make it a fantastic pairing for red meat and rich sauces, especially beef that's been slow cooked. Here's one of my favorite recipes for short ribs. Braised Beef Short Ribs Recipe 4 pounds boneless beef short ribs, cut into 1/2 pound portions 2 cups Cabernet..... Read More

The tannins in Cabernets Sauvignon make it a fantastic pairing for red meat and rich sauces, especially beef that's..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Red Wine Ribs Recipe

Summertime can mean only one thing: barbecue. Whether it’s succulent brisket, tender, smoky chicken or falling-off-the-bone ribs, barbecue is just about the best food you can eat on a sunny day, and my personal favorite is without a doubt ribs, especially if I get to enjoy it with a great glass..... Read More

Summertime can mean only one thing: barbecue. Whether it’s succulent brisket, tender, smoky chicken or falling-off-..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Sulfite Allergies and Wine: The Facts

There's no such thing as an allergic reaction to sulfite. To see why this is, let's start by looking at what sulfite is--and is not... Read More

There's no such thing as an allergic reaction to sulfite. To see why this is, let's start by looking at what sulfite ..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Residual Sugar in Wine

Dear Tim, I love your Master Vintner™ wine kits, and really like the wine I'm making with them. I've recently started exercising, and I've gone on a ketogenic diet and I want to figure out how many total carbohydrates there are in my wine Master Vintner™ Sommelier Select Old Vines Merlot. Can ..... Read More

Dear Tim, I love your Master Vintner™ wine kits, and really like the wine I'm making with them. I've recently star..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Water and Wine Making

Rime Of The Ancient Mariner Water, water, everywhere, And all the boards did shrink; Water, water, everywhere, Nor any drop to drink. The Rime of the Ancient Mariner Samuel Taylor Coleridge, 1798 I was toddling around an internet winemaking forum this past week when I was suddenly rem..... Read More

Rime Of The Ancient Mariner Water, water, everywhere, And all the boards did shrink; Water, water, everywher..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Bentonite Clay in Wine Making

Readers Write: The Case of the Missing Bentonite An astute winemaker contacted me with a very pertinent question. Tim, I did the Master Vintner Pinot Noir yesterday and was kind of surprised that there was no Bentonite. I thought that you had thought this was a good thing in kit winemaking...... Read More

Readers Write: The Case of the Missing Bentonite An astute winemaker contacted me with a very pertinent question...... Read More

October 25, 2019

Carboy Headspace in Wine Making

Headspace is the gap between the top of your wine and the bottom of the airlock or lid. Here's how to decide when headspace is beneficial and when it's not... Read More

Headspace is the gap between the top of your wine and the bottom of the airlock or lid. Here's how to decide when hea..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Why Are Wine Recipe Kits Concentrated?

I get a lot of questions--hundreds and hundreds of them--but fortunately I have a great big pile of answers. Today's question comes from Rod from Missoula--Hi Rod! He writes: "The label on my kit says it contains concentrated grape juice along with the other ingredients. How is concentration..... Read More

I get a lot of questions--hundreds and hundreds of them--but fortunately I have a great big pile of answers. Toda..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Wine Skins in Recipe Kits

I was on the Facebook home winemaking forum (I hang out there quite a bit, so if you have questions, drop by) the other day when I got hit up with a really good question. Below is my expanded answer to SD. Just a general question on wine kits . . . I like kits that come with the skins. Do you ..... Read More

I was on the Facebook home winemaking forum (I hang out there quite a bit, so if you have questions, drop by) the o..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Making Fruit Wine with Wine Kits

Grapes are the only fruit that can make wine without any other additions--they don't need water, or extra sugar or much of anything except a place to ferment. Other fruits take a bit more work: many need to be peeled or crushed and mixed with sugar and water to get the most flavour from them, an..... Read More

Grapes are the only fruit that can make wine without any other additions--they don't need water, or extra sugar or m..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Cleaning and Sanitizing Wine Equipment

A question popped up in a FaceBook group I follow and I thought it was something worth sharing Jessica wrote: I have a question about sanitizing. The Master Vintners wine kits instruct to clean with Oxygen Wash, rinse thoroughly, then sanitize with metabisulfite solution. If you are using One..... Read More

A question popped up in a FaceBook group I follow and I thought it was something worth sharing Jessica wrote: I h..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Setting up your Wine Making Space

If you search a bit on the internet, you'll see a lot of different home wine making setups. Some will make you sigh with envy--an entire converted garage or outbuilding, or part (or all!) of a basement, and even dedicated cellar spaces that look like a generation of professional winemakers hav..... Read More

If you search a bit on the internet, you'll see a lot of different home wine making setups. Some will make you sig..... Read More

October 25, 2019

The Secret History of Wine Kits

Modern wine kits are excellent examples of consumer-friendly DIY products: high quality ingredients, complete with everything you need, designed to work with custom built wine making kits, and packed into a sleek box with instructions that help you make great wine from the very first time. But it..... Read More

Modern wine kits are excellent examples of consumer-friendly DIY products: high quality ingredients, complete with ev..... Read More

October 25, 2019

What is a SCOBY?

Every batch of Kombucha needs a Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast, most commonly referred to as a SCOBY. It may look like a science fiction monster trapped in a kombucha jar, but this flattened jellyfish is what gets your fermentation going and your kombucha brewing. What Is A SCOBY? If yo..... Read More

Every batch of Kombucha needs a Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast, most commonly referred to as a SCOBY. It ma..... Read More

October 25, 2019

How to Make Kombucha Fizzy

During primary fermentation, the yeast in your SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast) devours all the sugar in the tea which produces carbonation. However, because your kombucha jar allows for open exchange of gasses, most of that carbonation escapes into the open air. Kombucha Carbona..... Read More

During primary fermentation, the yeast in your SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast) devours all the suga..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Kombucha Flavors

Kombucha is very customizable. It can be altered to accommodate a variety of fruits and herbs. From ginger, honey, or mint to strawberry, mango, and cherry, all the possible kombucha combinations are only as limited as your imagination. Use one of our Kombucha Brewing Starter Kits and start maki..... Read More

Kombucha is very customizable. It can be altered to accommodate a variety of fruits and herbs. From ginger, honey, o..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Home Brewing Calendar

When to Home Brew A 12 month guide to help you plan which beer recipe to brew according to when you want to drink it. We've listed the traditional month during which some beer recipes are drank. Recipe kits typically take between 4 and 8 weeks to be ready. However some recipes, like the strong ..... Read More

When to Home Brew A 12 month guide to help you plan which beer recipe to brew according to when you want to drink i..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Types of Wine: Shiraz

Master Vintner Spotlight: Shiraz This is the fifth in our series of blog posts taking a look at the type of grapes we use in Master Vintner wine kits. Grape varieties each one have their own unique character and response to the sunlight and soil of the region they're grown in. I'll be talking ..... Read More

Master Vintner Spotlight: Shiraz This is the fifth in our series of blog posts taking a look at the type of grapes..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Types of Wine: Rosé

In honor of International Rosé day, lets talk about pink wine—that’s what the word means in French, pinkish. In modern times, pink wine has been associated with either cheap and cheerful sparkling wine from Portugal (Mateus) or quite sweet ‘blush’ wines like White Zinfandel, invented in the USA ..... Read More

In honor of International Rosé day, lets talk about pink wine—that’s what the word means in French, pinkish. In mode..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Types of Wine: Pinot Noir

In honor of National Pinot Noir Day (August 18th) this week’s blog is a personal one, because my entire life was changed, in one single moment, by a bottle of Pinot Noir. And it’s like that for a lot of people. In one shining moment, they taste a Pinot Noir that suits their value system, inspire..... Read More

In honor of National Pinot Noir Day (August 18th) this week’s blog is a personal one, because my entire life was cha..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Types of Wine: Pinot Grigio

Pinot Grigio really stands out as an excellent food wine, and pairs exceptionally well with fish. It wasn't until producers in Oregon started selling their Pinot Grigio as the ultimate match for local salmon that the wine really took hold, and it's no wonder that it did... Read More

Pinot Grigio really stands out as an excellent food wine, and pairs exceptionally well with fish. It wasn't until pro..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Types of Wine: Moscato

Master Vintner Varietal Spotlight: Moscato This is the fourth in our series of blog posts taking a look at the type of grapes we use in Master Vintner wine kits. Grape types are known as 'varietals' and each one has its own unique character and response to the sunlight and soil of the region t..... Read More

Master Vintner Varietal Spotlight: Moscato This is the fourth in our series of blog posts taking a look at the typ..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Types of Wine: Merlot

Merlot is the second most popular red grape in America, after Cabernet Sauvignon. It's ripe fruit and soft finish make it easy-drinking enough to have on its own, and bold enough to pair easily with food. Most wine educators and sommeliers suggest Merlot as a first red for people who 'don't drin..... Read More

Merlot is the second most popular red grape in America, after Cabernet Sauvignon. It's ripe fruit and soft finish ma..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Types of Wine: Chardonnay

One of the most widely-planted major wine grape varieties in the world with 400,000 acres under vine. Chardonnay is a reliable, hardy and prolific vine whose only real vulnerabilities are to frost and uneven development of the fruit. It's planted virtually everywhere in the world where it is war..... Read More

One of the most widely-planted major wine grape varieties in the world with 400,000 acres under vine. Chardonnay is ..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Types of Wine: Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon is the undisputed world champion varietal, the benchmark vine by which other red wines are judged... Read More

Cabernet Sauvignon is the undisputed world champion varietal, the benchmark vine by which other red wines are judged... Read More

October 25, 2019

Wine is Not Fermenting

So you're a wine maker. Maybe you've just received some of our wine making equipment or one of our wine making kits, maybe you're making wine with your own wine ingredients; fruit concentrates or grapes. This time however, there seems to be a problem. You’ve given the yeast a chance to start, and..... Read More

So you're a wine maker. Maybe you've just received some of our wine making equipment or one of our wine making kits, ..... Read More

October 25, 2019

How to Make Mead

Mead, or honey wine, is the oldest alcoholic drink known to man. In prehistoric times, honey would drip from bee hives and collect in pools of rain water. Wild yeast would consume the sugar and produce the nectar of the gods. Almost every civilization has lore and myths associated with the consum..... Read More

Mead, or honey wine, is the oldest alcoholic drink known to man. In prehistoric times, honey would drip from bee hive..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Chocolate and Red Wine Cupcakes

Prep: 20 minutes Cook: 20 mins Yield: 18 servings If cupcakes give you flashbacks of the spongy confections served up at kids’ parties, or sky-high swirls of sickly-sweet frosting…here’s a great way to cleanse your palate. The richness of dark chocolate and sweet, fruity red wine pair perf..... Read More

Prep: 20 minutes Cook: 20 mins Yield: 18 servings If cupcakes give you flashbacks of the spongy confections se..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Red Wine Marinated Flank Steak

Prep: 4-8 hours Cook: 15 min Yield: 4 servings Want to secure your rep as a grill god or goddess? Then add this dish to your repertoire. With minimal prep, most of the heavy lifting is done by the wine and herbs. All you need to worry about is a quick sear over the grill, a simple sauce an..... Read More

Prep: 4-8 hours Cook: 15 min Yield: 4 servings Want to secure your rep as a grill god or goddess? Then add thi..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Pomodoro Sauce with Wine

Homemade tomato sauce, or gravy as it’s known in some Italian families, is all well and good when you can spend your entire Sunday perfecting it. But here’s a delicious secret Italians have been guarding for centuries Pomodoro is the everyday Italian sauce for pasta, and it takes only 20 minute..... Read More

Homemade tomato sauce, or gravy as it’s known in some Italian families, is all well and good when you can spend you..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Pork Chops and Peach Glaze with Wine

Prep: 20 min Cook: 25 min Yield: 4 servings Peaches and Riesling are a natural partner, and all the better when drizzled over delicious pork chops. Brining makes the chops juicy and tender. The secret to the juciest, most tender pork chops you’ve ever tasted? Treat your chops to at least 3..... Read More

Prep: 20 min Cook: 25 min Yield: 4 servings Peaches and Riesling are a natural partner, and all the better whe..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Slow Braised Lamb Shanks with Wine

  Prep: 20 min Cook: 2 ½ hours Yield: 4-8 servings Tough cuts like shanks are transformed into fork-tender lusciousness with long braising, but the secret to good flavor is browning the lamb well before braising it. If you’re tempted to skip or rush that step...don’t! It takes mere minutes, ..... Read More

  Prep: 20 min Cook: 2 ½ hours Yield: 4-8 servings Tough cuts like shanks are transformed into fork-tender lusci..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Small Batch Fruit Wine Equipment

I don't want to invest in expensive equipment, is there anything cheaper to make a small batch of fruit wine? You've got some fruit lying around, but you've never tried to make wine before and you aren't sure if making wine is for you. This is something that we hear all the time at Midwest, and t..... Read More

I don't want to invest in expensive equipment, is there anything cheaper to make a small batch of fruit wine? You've ..... Read More

October 25, 2019

How To Make Fruit Wine With Fruit Purees

There are many ways to make wine with Fruit Purees. It comes down to personal preference. With our new lineup of Oregon Fruit Purees, you’ll get 100% fruit in aseptic packaging for shelf stability - no waste, no prep, they’re ready to go when you are. No preservatives, no additives, no removing..... Read More

There are many ways to make wine with Fruit Purees. It comes down to personal preference. With our new lineup of Or..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Coq au Vin

Prep: 10 min Cook: 45 min Yield: 6-8 servings Coq au Vin is a brilliant dish that shows how well red wine can work with white meat. If you don’t have the time to slave over an elaborate dish, this shortcut version can be prepared on a weeknight and is delicious served over pasta. Pinot Noi..... Read More

Prep: 10 min Cook: 45 min Yield: 6-8 servings Coq au Vin is a brilliant dish that shows how well red wine can ..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Shrimp Scampi Al Fresco with Wine

Quick, simple and elegant, this dish makes a fabulous meal with crusty garlic bread and a salad. As the name indicates, it’s best enjoyed outside. This is my go-to summer twilight dining on the patio recipe. It looks impressive, but it’s deceptively simple, and the fresh herbal notes really shi..... Read More

Quick, simple and elegant, this dish makes a fabulous meal with crusty garlic bread and a salad. As the name indica..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Cooking with Wine

"I love cooking with wine. Sometimes I even put it in the food."    --attributed to Julia Child Adding wine to your favorite recipe is a great way to build flavor, but too much or the wrong style wine can throw off an otherwise delicious meal. With a few simple tips you can use an addition ..... Read More

"I love cooking with wine. Sometimes I even put it in the food."    --attributed to Julia Child Adding wine to ..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Plum Wine Recipe

How to Make Plum Wine If you’re reading this article it’s a safe bet that you’re interested in fruit wine making, more specifically plum wine making. An equally safe bet would seemingly be that I, your illustrious unnamed author, am also interested in making wine from plums. And you would be cor..... Read More

How to Make Plum Wine If you’re reading this article it’s a safe bet that you’re interested in fruit wine making, mo..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Advantages of Conical Fermenters

A conical fermenter will make brewing beer a lot easier. The biggest advantage is that racking becomes a very easy task. Once your beer recipe is done fermenting, the conical has a valve at the bottom that allows you to transfer the beer to the secondary using gravity. You simply place your carb..... Read More

A conical fermenter will make brewing beer a lot easier. The biggest advantage is that racking becomes a very easy t..... Read More

October 25, 2019

How to Make Non-Alcoholic Beer

Not everyone wants to drink alcoholic beer. Nonetheless, they may still want a great tasting beer now and again. So, the question becomes how can you make this happen? The process for making a non-alcoholic beer is very easy, anyone can do it. The brewing process is the same as with standard beer..... Read More

Not everyone wants to drink alcoholic beer. Nonetheless, they may still want a great tasting beer now and again. So, ..... Read More

October 25, 2019

What is Partial Mash Brewing?

An option for beginning all-grainer brewers to take the transition half-way. Use a small mash to provide wort complexity and freshness, but use malt extract to provide the bulk of the fermentables. This option is particularly attractive for brewers living in small apartments with limited room in..... Read More

An option for beginning all-grainer brewers to take the transition half-way. Use a small mash to provide wort comple..... Read More

October 25, 2019

2-Row vs 6-Row Malted Barley

Barley grown for brewers malt is called malting barley, as opposed to feed barley, and is divided into two general types; 2 Row Barley and 6 Row Barley... Read More

Barley grown for brewers malt is called malting barley, as opposed to feed barley, and is divided into two general ty..... Read More

October 25, 2019

When to Add Honey to Beer

Honey can be used throughout the brewing process for many reasons in many of our beer recipes. Adding honey to the boil can increase the final alcohol content, add a light honey flavor, or lighten the body of a beer if used as a replacement for malt extract. If added to the end of primary ferment..... Read More

Honey can be used throughout the brewing process for many reasons in many of our beer recipes. Adding honey to the bo..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Peace Coffee - Doing Good, Tasting Great

Coffee…It’s essential. It’s a ritual. For many, it’s the only civilized way to jumpstart our day, our brains and all human interactions. Coffee is everything. And it’s everywhere. However, not all coffee beans are created, harvested or roasted equal. At best, that can mean a disappointing cup. Bu..... Read More

Coffee…It’s essential. It’s a ritual. For many, it’s the only civilized way to jumpstart our day, our brains and all ..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Hot and Hoppy IPA Pickles

Prep: 24 hours Cook: 20 mins Yield: 8-12 servings While I haven't conducted an official study, I have noticed that some of my hoppiest-headed friends are devout chiliheads, too. Makes sense...we're talking about palates that love big, bold flavors. This recipe won't break any IBU or Scovil..... Read More

Prep: 24 hours Cook: 20 mins Yield: 8-12 servings While I haven't conducted an official study, I have noticed ..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Coffee Bacon Candy

Prep: 5 minutes Cook: 15 mins Yield: 8-10 servings Ever hear of Pig Candy? That’s one down-home name for candied bacon. And if you’re getting ready to knock it, hold off until you try this caffeinated version that combines all the best flavors of breakfast in one delicious bite. Dare you t..... Read More

Prep: 5 minutes Cook: 15 mins Yield: 8-10 servings Ever hear of Pig Candy? That’s one down-home name for candi..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Beer Belly Baked Beans

Prep: 2 hours Cook: 6 hours Yield: 8-12 servings Beer + pork belly…Is there any greater pairing? Throw some slow-cooked beans in there and it’s a party. This recipe is a must-have for summer cookouts, buffets and any gathering with a mess of hungry people. I’ve never brought home leftovers..... Read More

Prep: 2 hours Cook: 6 hours Yield: 8-12 servings Beer + pork belly…Is there any greater pairing? Throw some sl..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Grinding Away: Coffee Talk with Tim Vandergrift

I don't always drink wine. Or even beer. I don't even drink whisky every day, come to think of it. I don't like soda pop for the most part, and I drink about two quarts of milk per calendar year. There are only two beverages I consume on a daily basis: water, of course, since I am a squishy bag ..... Read More

I don't always drink wine. Or even beer. I don't even drink whisky every day, come to think of it. I don't like soda..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Mocha Monkey Cold Brew Smoothie

Prep: 10 min Yield: 1-2 servings Next time you find yourself hitting the snooze button a few too many times, try this frosty breakfast protein bomb to get your day back on track. For an extra shot of fuel (not to mention flavor) I like to swap in almond or cashew butter in place of peanut ..... Read More

Prep: 10 min Yield: 1-2 servings Next time you find yourself hitting the snooze button a few too many times, t..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Crockpot Red-Eye Short Ribs

Prep: 30 min Bake: 8 hours Yield: 3-4 servings In the mood for an easy weeknight meal that feels like a special occasion? Check. These short ribs turn tender and delicious in the slow cooker. Pro tip: Serve with plenty of bread or mashed potatoes. The pan juices are possibly even better th..... Read More

Prep: 30 min Bake: 8 hours Yield: 3-4 servings In the mood for an easy weeknight meal that feels like a specia..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Yeti Bait Salted Cold Brew Coffee Brownies

Prep: 15 min Bake: 30 min Yield: 9 servings If Yetis have a weakness for salty and sweet combos, they’d be powerless to resist these coffee-laced brownies…I assume. Can’t seem to keep them around long enough to test the theory. Bake at your own risk. These things have been known to cause s..... Read More

Prep: 15 min Bake: 30 min Yield: 9 servings If Yetis have a weakness for salty and sweet combos, they’d be pow..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Sweet & Spicy Coffee Glazed Wings

Prep: 15 min + 6 hours Cook: 30 min Yield: 8 servings One of the reasons I love having cold brew coffee in the fridge is that it’s so easy to add it to a recipe that needs that certain kick. These wings were good, but adding the cold brew took them to a whole new level of complex spice and..... Read More

Prep: 15 min + 6 hours Cook: 30 min Yield: 8 servings One of the reasons I love having cold brew coffee in the..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Darn Good Glazed Coffee Doughnuts

Prep: 20 min Bake: 45 min Yield: 12 servings You know that first time you tried a coffee that made you realize you’d been missing out all your life? This classic pairing is that squared. Nothing better than freshly-made donuts…except freshly-made donuts topped with coffee glaze. Ingredient..... Read More

Prep: 20 min Bake: 45 min Yield: 12 servings You know that first time you tried a coffee that made you realize..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Coffee Rubbed Bacon Buzz Burgers

Prep: 20 min Cook: 10 min Yield: 8 servings Even if you have a tried-and-true burger recipe, this breakfast-inspired approach is a great wake-up call for your grill routine. The coffee bean rub and smoky bacon will get you buzzing. To go the extra mile, I’ve been known to drop a fried egg..... Read More

Prep: 20 min Cook: 10 min Yield: 8 servings Even if you have a tried-and-true burger recipe, this breakfast-i..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Jacked-Up Java Stout Cocktail

Steeping: 3 days Prep: 5 min Yield:1 serving You can use any cold brew (or even regular brewed coffee, you animal) for this cocktail. But I’m going to go ahead and geek out here: I highly recommend giving the Jacked Up version a try. The nitro completely changes the texture and taste, givi..... Read More

Steeping: 3 days Prep: 5 min Yield:1 serving You can use any cold brew (or even regular brewed coffee, you ani..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Beer Braised Pulled Pork Sliders

Prep: 30 min Cook: 4 hours Yield: 10-12 servings The hardest part of this recipe is enduring the amazing aromas that will be coming from your oven for hours before you eat. I’ve used a variety of homebrews with this recipe, and the flavos in the pan juices tend to turn out best with darker..... Read More

Prep: 30 min Cook: 4 hours Yield: 10-12 servings The hardest part of this recipe is enduring the amazing aroma..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Smoky Beer, Bacon & Cheese Soup

Prep: 20 min Cook: 45 min Yield: 4 servings I’ve heard Cajun chefs call onion, celery and bell peppers the “holy trinity” of cooking. (Looking at you, Emeril.) If I had to pick my trinity, it would be: homebrew, bacon and cheese. Preferably with a bit of spice, like this soup recipe...whi..... Read More

Prep: 20 min Cook: 45 min Yield: 4 servings I’ve heard Cajun chefs call onion, celery and bell peppers the “h..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Hop Head Beer-Braised Brussels & Bacon

Prep: 10 min Cook: 22 min Yield: 6-8 servings Some people are born knowing how awesome Brussels Sprouts are. Others figure it out along the way. I needed some heavy-duty persuasion, and this recipe is what made me a convert. Trust me...If you’re on the fence about Brussels, give this one a..... Read More

Prep: 10 min Cook: 22 min Yield: 6-8 servings Some people are born knowing how awesome Brussels Sprouts are. O..... Read More

October 25, 2019

Sweet Chocolate Stout Cake with Wee Whiskey Frosting

Prep: 25 min Bake: 45 min + cooling Yield: 12 servings I would say that this makes a great recipe to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, but why deprive yourself the rest of the year? The stout makes this one of the richest chocolate cakes I’ve ever tasted, and the hint of whiskey turns the frost..... Read More

Prep: 25 min Bake: 45 min + cooling Yield: 12 servings I would say that this makes a great recipe to celebrate..... Read More

July 01, 2019

Bottle Conditioning

Carbonating beer with an additional fermentation in the bottle... Read More

Carbonating beer with an additional fermentation in the bottle... Read More

June 06, 2019

How to Use the Last Straw Bottle Filler

The Last Straw Bottle Filler is a fast and easy way to bottle a beer after it has been carbonated in a keg. The issue with just pouring a beer into a bottle from the tap is that you lose a lot of carbonation in the beer. The use of the Last Straw will help maintain the proper carbonation of the b..... Read More

The Last Straw Bottle Filler is a fast and easy way to bottle a beer after it has been carbonated in a keg. The issue..... Read More

November 05, 2018

India Pale Ale

Commonly referred to as an I.P.A. — A strong, hoppy Pale ale. The style originated in Britain in the 19th century, and had a high alcohol content and hopping rate, allowing it to survive the long sea voyage to India... Read More

Commonly referred to as an I.P.A. — A strong, hoppy Pale ale. The style originated in Britain in the 19th century, an..... Read More

Load More