How to Make Wine in a Gallon Ball Jar Dispenser

Making wine at home is a fairly simple process. All you need are a few easily acquired supplies and a little time. The most important aspect of the process to keep in mind when making wine at home is sterilization; it is essential. This is something that makes a Ball jar gallon dispenser the perfect container to make the wine in, because it has a long history of being easy to sterilize. The gallon container is also the best vessel in which to store the finished product: all you need to do is to open the spigot on the Ball jar dispenser and pour a glass of wine, or two, and enjoy.

Things You'll Need

• 2 lbs. grapes
• 2 lbs. sugar
• ¾ ounce active, dry yeast
• 1 gallon distilled water
• Gallon size plastic bucket
• Gallon Ball jar dispenser with lid and rubber bung
• Potato masher
• Wooden spoon
• Large saucepan
• String or large rubber band
• Cheesecloth

Instructions

1. Sterilize all utensils and the Ball jar dispenser. The best way to do this is to put everything in a sink and pour boiling water over it. Repeat 3 times.

2. Mash the grapes in the plastic bucket using the potato masher and wooden spoon. Spoon the grapes into the Ball jar dispenser.

3. Bring the water to boiling point. Mix in the sugar and stir until dissolved. Bring water to boiling point again.

4. Remove the water/sugar mixture from the heat and allow to cool for 5 minutes. Pour into Ball jar dispenser over grapes.

5. Allow to cool until warm to the touch, not hot. Sprinkle in yeast and stir until mixed.

6. Cover the Ball jar dispenser with cheese cloth. Secure with string or a large rubber band.

7. Place in a warm, dark place, such as a closet that is approximately 70 degrees. Allow to sit for 21 days.

8. Strain the wine through cheesecloth into a sterilized saucepan. Discard the sediment. Rinse and sterilize the gallon Ball jar dispenser and return wine to it. Seal with the rubber bung and lid. Store in a refrigerator. Allow to age for at least a month before drinking.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not pour boiling water over cool glass or it may crack.

References

• Introduction to Home Winemaking
• Home Made Wine Recipes
• Cooks.com: Grape Wine