In another thread I was asked about a Vieux Chateau du Roi that I have in production. Since this may (or may not) turn into a lengthy conversation, instead of threadjacking I'm starting a new thread.
I started a Winexpert Selection Vieux Chateau du Roi at the beginning of October. So far it's progressing well -- I'm going to rack it today as there is a significant sediment build up. I'm following the kit instructions (with the proviso that timelines are minimums) and expect to bottle in early December. Or maybe late December, depending on free time around the holidays.
It's a medium bodied red and based upon tastings at rackings, I will enjoy this one. I don't think it's a long ager, but I'm going to leave it alone for a year (other than quarterly tests) and will try to reserve a few bottles for longer term aging. I made it more as a "drink now" wine to give other reds a fighting chance at aging.
I recently converted my original wine making site to a new one, and when moving my logs i realized this is the third time I've made this kit. Although the three instances are not the same kit:
EDIT: Added more detail regarding the kits, as WE has several levels.
I started a Winexpert Selection Vieux Chateau du Roi at the beginning of October. So far it's progressing well -- I'm going to rack it today as there is a significant sediment build up. I'm following the kit instructions (with the proviso that timelines are minimums) and expect to bottle in early December. Or maybe late December, depending on free time around the holidays.
It's a medium bodied red and based upon tastings at rackings, I will enjoy this one. I don't think it's a long ager, but I'm going to leave it alone for a year (other than quarterly tests) and will try to reserve a few bottles for longer term aging. I made it more as a "drink now" wine to give other reds a fighting chance at aging.
I recently converted my original wine making site to a new one, and when moving my logs i realized this is the third time I've made this kit. Although the three instances are not the same kit:
- 1996 WineArt (my first wine kit)
- 2011 R J Spagnols Heritage Estates
- 2018 Winexpert Selection
- Kit wines work better if I follow the instructions and don't treat them as fresh grape wines.
- Kits have improved significantly in quality since my first kit 22 years ago.
EDIT: Added more detail regarding the kits, as WE has several levels.
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