As the winter months stretch out ahead of us, craft wine-making could be the perfect hobby to provide a bit of “cheer” — while also saving you money, requiring fewer shopping errands, and maybe even boosting your relationships with friends and neighbours.
At John’s Home Brew Store in Charlottetown, owners Becky Mowat and Michael Hammond say the easiest and most cost-effective way to fill your wine rack (and add variety) is to craft your own wines alone or with a friend, either at home or “on-premises.”
“Wine-making is a fun, easy hobby, and we’re happy to get you started,” says Becky. “Our team is very knowledgeable, and we’re able to share tips and tricks we’ve picked up over 25 years of craft winemaking.”
John’s Home Brew sells a vast selection of quality wine kits from premium wine juices sourced from the world’s top wine regions. Kit ingredients include top-quality juices, varietal enhancing yeasts, specialized oaks, elderflowers and berries. Becky says most red wine kits also contain “luxurious amounts of grape skins” that create delicious, mouthwatering wines.
Instead of rushing out to buy individual bottles of wine, Becky says it’s convenient to always have great wines on hand to pair with special meals, toast important occasions or give as gifts. Each craft wine kit makes 30 bottles (750 ml. each) of fine wine, which Becky points out is a smart way to fill your wine rack while keeping your wallet fuller.
Craft wine-making is a hobby you can enjoy on your own, or an activity you can share with friends and neighbours. Becky says many “bubbles” are forming craft wine clubs so they can share wines back and forth.
Wine-making is also better for the environment since the bottles can be washed, sterilized and reused. Many regulars at John’s Home Brew also enjoy the fun of personalizing their wine with custom labels.
“With craft wine-making as your new hobby, you’ll be ready to bring ‘cheer’ to every occasion in the new year,” says Becky. “You’ll reap the rewards of having a full wine rack, more free time, fun within your ‘bubble,’ and the satisfaction that comes with learning a fun new hobby.”
Ready to learn more about craft wine-making? Pop into John’s Home Brew Store (14 A Exhibition Dr., Charlottetown), visit johnshomebrewstorepei.ca or call (902) 892-1987 to chat about your options.
