Grapes, Juice or Concentrate

The most important supply for any winemaker is, of course, grapes or juice. Are you going to grow your own grapes? Are you purchasing fresh grapes in season? Are you purchasing fresh juice? You can also use frozen grapes or concentrates. Certain varieties of grapes are readily available in Missouri, whereas others, if desired, must be purchased out-of-state.  See the the Missouri wine grapes section for more information on Missouri grown grapes.

If you grow your own grapes, you need to measure the initial sugar level of the juice. You should also measure pH and acid if you have the resources. If you purchase fresh grapes, fresh juice, or frozen grapes, you may be able to get this information from the seller. A concentrate will have a set of instructions included that will direct you to dilute the juice to a sugar level consistent with the wine you wish to make. It is advisable to use a yeast nutrient (e.g., diammonium phosphate or DAP) to promote yeast growth and fermentation when you are using juice from concentrate.