2009 Cali Juice started

[FullDraw]

It seems there's not much talk about vinifera on here. My buddy and I just picked up our juice buckets Thursday. He's going his route, I'm going mine, and in the end we'll have our tastings.

This years lineup is small. Cabernet Sauvignon, and White Zinfandel.

I'm trying some elderberries in my Cab during fermentation this year. Curious to see how it turns out.

Does anyone else rush to the buckets this time of year?
If so, what's bubbling for you?

 

[hopmeamadeus]

Hi Cayuga:

I started a Zinfandel bucket about two weeks ago. It was happily bubbling away in my primary for a few days; today I'm racking to a 5gal carboy for some aging with oak spirals.

I'm debating on whether to add some cherry, or maybe blend in a bit of Petit Syrah (for topping off the carboy) as the flavors will marry nicely.

Anyone else tried adding store-bought wine for blending?

 

[mmadmikes1]

It is better than water for topping off

 

[phished880]

I'm glad you started this thread. I was doing some digging the other day and found this by my house. http://www.americanwinegrape.com/products.asp?cat=51
Does anyone have experience with them? What would i need for these to produce good wine?
I'm thinking right now. 1 red 1 white.
All help is greatly appreciated.
Jeremy