Started a 5 gallon batch in a bucket with a tea-towel over top (going with the use-what-you-have approach...and besides...it worked for my dandelion wine!). Fermentation started strong after 24-36 hours...I could hear it in different parts of the house! after about 4-5 days total, fermentation is no longer audible, but still working away.
I just had to sample some. I think it is delicious so far...tastes a bit like a slightly sour, watered-down apple juice. It goes down almost TOO easy! The wife tried it and thinks it's too sour, but agreed to reserve judgment until it's been fermenting for at least the full 4 weeks.
I originally wasn't going to start another batch until it was done, but after tasting it this young, there will be another 5 gallons or more on the go within the next week. I have a feeling the rest of the family will be enjoying this as well...might not be hard to go through the full batch in just a few weekends.
and I followed Ed's recipe exactly, and will do so for the next few as well. I am very pleased with this. I think I have a whopping $22 invested in this...works out to less than $1 per bottle I think...much better than hitting up the wine or liquor store every week!
If you intend to bulk age, i'd recommend looking at getting a 5 gallon carboy. It'll be worth it anyways if you keep brewing
Here's my first 5 gallon batch of Apfelwein finished putting it together last night and is bubbling away today.