Andrew,
Congrats on your first kit in-process. And you should begin another, soon!
I like the BrewKing Cabernets- the more expensive kits yield a better
product. And I don't dilute the concentrate per the instructions- I skimp
on the water- omitting 1/2 to 1/4 gallon. After 16 kits, trial and error
has clearly shown that kits topped off to the full 6 US gallons are a little
weak, and lack robust flavor. I also add grape tannin powder and double or
triple the oak. This extends the bottle aging time far beyond what the
directions say for an excellent wine, but you can drink it anytime.

I also have made Chennin Blanc from Alexander's Sun Country Concentrate and
have been very pleased with the outcome. IMO my Alexander's CBs are far
better than what I have been buying at the package stores.

DO experiment, just do it in tiny increments from kit to kit and keep
careful notes in your wine journal.

All the Best,

--
KB




"Reticulum" > wrote in message
om...
> Greetings,
>
> I'm close to moving to 2ndary ferment on
> my 1st kit. Already I'm eager to begin again.
> I love Reds. I have no complaints with brewking,
> but are their kits the best ? By best I mean
> the finest quality, taste, etc. Not just the
> best "deal".
>
> Enjoy the weekend,
>
> Andrew
>

On Mon, 23 Aug 2004 01:46:08 GMT, "K. B." >
wrote:

>Andrew,
>Congrats on your first kit in-process. And you should begin another, soon!
>I like the BrewKing Cabernets- the more expensive kits yield a better
>product. And I don't dilute the concentrate per the instructions- I skimp
>on the water- omitting 1/2 to 1/4 gallon. After 16 kits, trial and error
>has clearly shown that kits topped off to the full 6 US gallons are a little
>weak, and lack robust flavor. I also add grape tannin powder and double or
>triple the oak. This extends the bottle aging time far beyond what the
>directions say for an excellent wine, but you can drink it anytime.
>
>I also have made Chennin Blanc from Alexander's Sun Country Concentrate and
>have been very pleased with the outcome. IMO my Alexander's CBs are far
>better than what I have been buying at the package stores.
>
>DO experiment, just do it in tiny increments from kit to kit and keep
>careful notes in your wine journal.
>
>All the Best,

Thank you. I like your idea about concentrating the kit
some. Have made any Blends this way? It would be interesting
to try that with an 80/20 Merlot/Cab.Franc.

Andrew