How to Create a Wine Journal

You've just finished a great bottle of wine and want to remember it. Instead of filling the kitchen with empty wine bottles, why not create a wine journal? It's a perfect way to keep track of the wines you enjoyed, and make notes of the bottles you didn't like.

Things You'll Need

• Scissors
• Pen
• Scrapbook adhesive
• Unlined journal or scrapbook
• Clear packing tape

Instructions

Remove the Wine Label

1. Cut 3-inch wide clear packing tape into two strips that measure about 3 1/2-inches wider than the wine label. Place the tape over the label.

2. Fill the wine bottle with very hot water, being careful not to get the label wet.

3. Set the bottle aside for about 8 minutes, allowing the glue to react to the heat from the water.

4. Rub the wine label firmly with the back of a large spoon. Be sure to rub over the entire label.

5. Peel the tape off the bottle starting with the left edge and work your way slowly across the bottle.

6. Trim the edges of the tape from the newly laminated wine label with scissors and prepare for mounting in your journal.

Create the Journal

1. Purchase an unlined journal or acid-free paper scrapbook.

2. Spread scrapbook adhesive glue on the back of the wine label.

3. Place the wine label on the page and press firmly.

4. Document the region, country, vintage, vineyard, color and price of the wine.

5. Note your thoughts on the flavor of the wine and possible food pairings.

6. Reminisce about the day you drank the wine and record where you consumed it, who you enjoyed it with and the circumstances of that day.

7. Share your favorite wines from the journal with family and friends.

Tips & Warnings

• If the label is wet after you peel it from the bottle, set it aside and let it dry or the adhesive will not adhere to the paper.

• Clear adhesive scotchpads are available for purchase and also work for removing wine labels. However, purchasing these can be expensive if you drink a lot of wine.