The kit instructions said to put the grape skins in the muslin bag However the bag was missing I had to make my own. When I contacted you I was told that you recommended not using the bag , that’s the 1st time I’ve ever been told that, and I’ve been making wine for over 30 plus years

I don’t know if the sommelier kits are really made by Master Vintner but whoever assembles these kits rightfully is embarrassed to put their name on them. Midwest stands behind their products but I think it is a mistake to offer these kits composed of out dated stock from who knows where. I first ordered an OV zinfandel which over the years I have had excellent results from wine art, wine expert, etc. I have been making wine since 1962 and have won gold medals with my farm wines. I didnt get into kits until the last 20 years. These are 5he only kits to have been made with components over 3 years old. The oak chips were of two sources one toasted one blonde in the same kit. I complained about the Zinfandel and they gladly shipped me an OV Cab Sav as a replacement. It was even more out dated and obviously just stuff rounded up from people selling old stock. I question the accuracy of the juice variety. I have my own cab sauvigon vines and realise the effects and limits of terroir to change. Check which kit makers win awards at Winemaker magazine and the Indy international amateur competitions, I no longer compete but would be surprised if RJS isnt a better choice.

Great kit, just followed the directions except for letting the carboy bulk age for an extra 50 days. During the bottling, sneaked a taste and it was great, Now will attempt to leave it aging in the bottle for a year and taste again.

I Have No Problem With Midwest Supplies Great To Work With, I Purchased What I Thought Was A Premium Wine Kit. There Was no Bag For The Grape Skins, No Labels For The Bottles (Which Other Suppliers Supply With There Kits) And The Instruction Have A Lot Left To Be Desired. Midwest Supplies Supplied The Bags. Have Not Brewed The Kit Yet. Hope All Turns Out Well.

I made a pyment/mead with this kit - actually, more than one from one kit - so this likely isn't a review of the results of the kit per it's contents and instructions, but I thought I'd put it out there for others to consider.
Everything is as described for contents, etc. No bag for the skins, and I'm hoping they decided to add one as they're not very expensive (I bought this kit in 2020). I have reusable ones, so not a big deal for me. For those interested in experimenting...
I split this up into 2 batches and used D254 yeast in one, and D80 in the other. I also used my own oak instead of the chips - a blend of American, French, and Hungarian (all Med+ toast levels) - then blended the two batches. I had some other 'tweaks' post fermentation, and the end result was great. I also did the same with another Syrah kit, and blended some of it with this batch. That also turned out phenomenal.