Jack wrote;
"I guess I'm just as interested in a quality supplier as I am a quality kit.
I
> don't mind spending up to $200 to get started. Though from what I've
> seen, it doesn't look like it will cost that much."
~Do you live near a homebrew/winemaking shop? Go there and discuss what you
need. You can touch and feel the equipment. Better IMO that buying sight
unseen.

"Also, what is a good first-timer wine kit (red). I like cabs, merlots
> and such-- typically failry dry and not too sweet."
~Brewking makes cab/merlot blends I believe. Buy one of those and follow
the instructions closely. Don't count on the wine being fit to drink in 28
days. If you want it to taste good plan on 6 months at least.

"I would also like for each of these first batches to be small, ten bottles
or
> less if that's possible. I don't want a glut of mediocre wine. I
> just want enough to wet my whistle (pun intended)."
~Buy an expensive kit. Make the kit as instructed. Give it some time. The
wine will be good. If you try to make small volumes of wine there is a
greater chance for the wine to become oxidized somewhere in the process and
you will be disappointed.

Best advice...once the wine is in a carboy keep it topped up to within 1/2
inch of the air lock.

Good luck.

Bill Frazier
Olathe, Kansas