How to Make Sparkling Wine from Store-Bought Still Wine: A Comprehensive Guide

Transforming store-bought still wine into the effervescent delight that is sparkling wine is a fascinating and somewhat adventurous process. Whether you have a bottle or a larger volume like a box of wine, the steps are surprisingly simple yet require some careful handling. This guide covers the methods and precautions needed to create your very own bubbly wine at home.

Methods for Making Sparkling Wine from Still Wine

There are several ways to infuse your still wine with bubbles, suitable for either a small or large batch. Let's explore the options:

1. Small Batch Sparkling Wine using CO2 Chargers

For a single bottle, consider using CO2 chargers in a stainless steel cream whipper or a growler with a modified cap. The setup involves using a carbonator fitting with a quick disconnect fitting that accepts CO2 chargers. These methods are quick and straightforward, but they may not result in a long-term carbonation.

2. Homebrew Kegging System for Larger Volumes

If you are working with a larger volume, such as a box of wine, a homebrew kegging system is more suitable. These systems are designed to handle larger volumes efficiently and can accommodate the carbonation process for a more consistent result.

Traditional Sparkling Wine Method

A more traditional method involves adding sugar, yeast, and yeast nutrients to the base still wine and allowing fermentation to occur. The process is similar to the traditional method used in wineries.

Using the Pressure Cooker Method

One method to achieve this involves the following steps:

Add sweet grape juice/must and yeast to the base still wine in a sealed, pressure-proof container. A pressure cooker can be used as a makeshift pressure vessel. Let the mixture ferment, which can take several months to a few years, depending on the desired carbonation level. After fermentation, carefully remove the dead yeast to retain the bubbles. This process is crucial to achieve the desired taste and carbonation.

Step-by-Step Guide for Homemade Sparkling Wine

Here's a step-by-step guide for making sparkling wine from store-bought still wine:

Add Sugar: For each gallon of still wine, add about 1/4 cup of sugar. This will provide the necessary sweetness and sugar content for the yeast to ferment and produce carbonation. Yeast and Yeast Nutrients: Use a “champagne type” yeast, such as EC-1118, and a little yeast nutrient like Fermaid to ensure proper fermentation. Mix and Bottle: Mix all the ingredients together and pour the mixture into sparkling bottles. Securely cap the bottles with a crown cap or a soda cap. Waiting Period: Allow the bottles to ferment on their sides for about six months. During this period, the yeast will convert the sugar into alcohol and CO2, creating the desired carbonation.

Challenges and Precautions

While the process of making sparkling wine from store-bought still wine is simple, there are a few challenges and precautions to consider:

Preservatives: Commercial wines often contain preservatives like sulfites and sorbates, which can inhibit fermentation. This may affect the success of your homemade sparkling wine. Safety: Be cautious when handling CO2 chargers and pressure vessels to avoid explosions. Ensure all equipment is properly sealed to prevent leaks. Patience: The process can take several months, and you need to be patient to allow the wine to fully ferment and carbonate.

By following these steps and taking the necessary precautions, you can transform your store-bought still wine into a sparkling delight. Whether you prefer a small batch method or the traditional longer fermentation process, the result will be a unique and rewarding experience. Cheers to your homemade sparkling wine adventure!