I often get asked what equipment is needed to start making wine. I’m going to explain what I feel is needed to get started and why. Keep in mind that my focus here is on making fruit wine.

Basic Equipment:

1. Primary Fermenter – This is for first stage fermentation. A food grade plastic bucket with lid is preferred. A good clean crock pot can also be used if it is only used for wine making.
2. Secondary Fermenter – This is for second stage fermentation. A glass carboy is preferred here. I’ve seen plastic carboys, but have never used them.
3. Siphon hose and racking cane – This is used to move the must (unfinished wine) from the primary container to secondary and to move the wine off the lees (sediment).
4. Airlock and bung – This is used on the Secondary Fermenter (glass carboy). Its purpose is too keep oxygen off the wine and allow CO2 to escape from the wine.
5. Hydrometer – This is used to measure the sugar content of your wine. It usually has 3 scales, PA, SG, Brix, but they all measure how much sugar is in the must.
6. Acid test kit – This is used to measure the acid in your wine so you know how much Acid Blend to add.
7. You will also need a way to store your wine. Wine bottles will require a corker to install corks. Screw top glass bottles will require lids. Empty 2 liter soda bottles will work in a pinch. You get the point. Just make sure what ever you use is sanitized.

This is the basic equipment needed to start making wine. Other equipment makes the job easier. I will cover that later. Stay tuned.

Enjoy a glass of wine!