Apfelwein: Homemade apple wine.
Apfelwein, also known as German apple wine, is a refreshing alcoholic beverage crafted from fermented apples. The taste is similar to a dry cider, slightly tart with a crisp apple undertone. Making Apfelwein at home involves fermenting apple juice with yeast over several weeks, allowing the natural sugars to convert into alcohol. The result is a clear, pale gold wine that can be enjoyed chilled and is perfect for pairing with traditional German dishes or sipping on a warm afternoon. Homemade Apfelwein can be made sparkling or still, depending on one's preference, and offers an exceptionally personal touch to any gathering or meal.
Introduction:
Welcome to the rustic art of home brewing, where the fruits of nature can be transformed into delightful libations. Today, we'll embark on crafting a batch of Homestead Apple Wine, brought to you by the artful guidance of Katie from Katie Cooks and Crafts. This recipe is a favorite amongst home brewers for its simplicity and exquisite taste: a slightly fruity, slightly dry creation with a natural carbonation—a perfect toast to the simplicity of good living.
Ingredients:
- 5 gallons apple juice (100% juice with no added ingredients, ascorbic acid is fine)
- 2 pounds corn sugar (dextrose)
- 1 packet dry wine yeast
- Sanitizer (preferably no-rinse acid sanitizer)
Equipment:
- Carboy
- Funnel
- Airlock
- Sanitizing solution
- Towel
- Siphon (for removing excess liquid)
- Bottles (for final product)
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 4-6 weeks of fermentation
Total Time: 4-6 weeks + 30 minutes
Cooking Tips: Ensure all your brewing equipment is thoroughly sanitized to prevent contamination. The temperature of the storage area can affect the fermentation process, so aim for a consistent, moderate temperature according to the yeast's requirements. Keeping the fermenter out of direct sunlight is essential.
Servings: Approximately 25-30 750ml bottles of wine
Instructions:
1. Start by sanitizing your carboy with your no-rinse acid sanitizer. Ensure all equipment that will come in contact with the wine is also sanitized.
2. Pour half of the apple juice into the sanitized carboy.
3. Add 1 pound of corn sugar into the funnel with the juice in the carboy. If necessary, unclog the funnel for a smooth pour. Rinse the funnel with a little more apple juice to dissolve the sugar. The fine corn sugar should dissolve easily.
4. Repeat the process with the second pound of corn sugar and more juice, again dissolving the sugar well and adding it to the carboy. Leave the last quart of juice aside for now.
5. Continue adding the rest of the apple juice to the carboy, leaving room at the top. Place a towel around the carboy's neck to catch any sanitizer bubbles.
6. Once the carboy is filled, sprinkle the dry wine yeast into the carboy through the funnel. Rinse it through with the last bit of apple juice to ensure all the yeast enters the carboy.
7. Wipe up any spills, then seal the carboy with an airlock filled with fresh sanitizing solution.
8. Allow the mixture to start fermenting, which should be evident from bubbling in the airlock. After about 18 hours, clean the airlock if necessary and replace it if it becomes filled with juice.
9. After a week, you may notice the fermentation settling down. If the airlock gets filled with juice, siphon out some liquid to maintain proper airlock function.
10. Store your carboy in a cool, dark place like a basement or laundry room to avoid unwanted odors and light. If the scent is strong, you may want to store it in a less frequented area.
11. Let the wine ferment for a total of 4-6 weeks. Once fermentation appears complete (no more bubbling), prepare to bottle your apple wine. The longer it ferments, the clearer and more settled it will be.
12. Siphon the wine into bottles, avoiding the sediment at the bottom, and then seal the bottles.
Attribution:
This recipe is proudly presented by Katie Cooks and Crafts. To follow the crafting of this recipe and more, visit their YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@KatieCooksandCrafts
#homebrewing #hardcider #diy #fermentation
YouTube channel - Katie Cooks and Crafts: https://www.youtube.com/@KatieCooksandCrafts
Apfelwein: Homemade apple wine.
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