Finer Wine Kits Take Kit Winemaking to Another Level
Posted by Matteo Lahm on 8th Aug 2023
Making wine at home has become increasingly popular and many have turned to wine kits to help in this endeavor; however, not all wine kits are created equal. Three years ago, Label Peelers became the exclusive retailer of Finer Wine Kits. It has since become a premiere brand. As a newsletter subscriber, you have seen these kits advertised but if you haven’t tried Finer Wine Kits yet, there are many reasons why you should. In this article, we will explore the differentials that distinguish Finer Wine Kits from other brands, and how they can help you make better wine.
The first, and perhaps the most important distinction of Finer Wine Kits is the preparation and storage of the juice. FWK concentrates are not ultra-pasteurized. This means the juice does not undergo the secondary pasteurization process that allows the kits to be stored and sold at room temperature. Ultra-pasteurization further deteriorates the flavor and aroma of the juice leading to what some have dubbed “the kit taste.” Like all wine kits, Finer Wine Kits utilize concentrated juice but instead of sterilizing them with additional heat and processing, Finer Wine Kits’ concentrates are stored and shipped cold which preserves more of the natural flavors and aromas of the grapes. This alone produces a higher quality wine.
The flavor and aroma of wine made from non-ultra-pasteurized juice will be superior to those made from traditional wine kits. One of the main differences is the level of oxidation that occurs. During ultra-pasteurization, the heating process causes oxidation. This type of oxidation is a chemical reaction in which oxygen molecules come into contact with the juice, breaking down the compounds that constitute much of the flavor and aroma. By eliminating the ultra-pasteurization process, the juice maintains more of its natural characteristics, resulting in a more complex and enjoyable wine.
Beyond the concentrates, there are other reasons and innovations that set Finer Wine Kits apart from competitors. FWK red wine kits either come with or offer options for fresh grape skins and grape seeds. The skins are actual grape skins that are stored in freezers. They undergo no processing or manipulation. This is a stark difference from “skins” in other kits that are more representative of pulp as they require a lot of processing to remain stable at room temperature. Competitor skins are both processed and pasteurized. Finer Wine Kits’ skins are neither.
As for the grape seeds, Finer Wine Kits stand alone. Adding grape seeds to reds during fermentation completes the tannin profile and contributes polyphenols and resveratrol in addition to imparting more structure to the wine. Seeds have an undeserved bad reputation; however, all commercial reds are fermented with seeds. They play a critical role in the overall flavor profile of your red wine. Seeds come automatically with Forte Series kits and can be purchased separately with the Tavola Series.
Other innovations of Finer Wine Kits include yeast starters. They encourage more rigorous and thorough fermentation which allowed for the inclusion of better suited yeast strains like Lalvin Bourgovine RC-212. That is the correct and ideal yeast for making a dry red. Other kits come with EC-1118, a generic yeast that can withstand higher alcohol levels but lacks the subtleties. Finer Wine Kits also include pectic enzyme and yeast nutrient. For the whites, the kits utilize a carbon process to lighten color and remove unwanted oxidized solids indicative of light-colored fresh fruit. Carbon is a professional technique adapted by Finer Wine Kits to produce superior white wines with better clarity, color and more refined aromas as unwanted solids can alter the nose.
Beyond the ingredient improvements, the instructions go several steps beyond their competitors. They are very detailed and not only help make a better wine, there is significantly more information for beginner winemakers to reference as they get started in the hobby of winemaking.
In conclusion, non-ultra-pasteurized juice, fresh skins, seeds, yeast starters, more specific yeast strains and better instructions offer a superior kit winemaking experience. From a chemical perspective, the flavor and aroma of the wine exceeds that of other brands. So, if you’re looking to make the best wine possible at home using kits, try any Forte, Tavola or Novello series Finer Wine Kit. Your tastebuds will thank you.