Why settle for plain watermelon when you can make wine?
Who says that watermelon is only for eating? Why not level up your watermelon experience by making it into wine? Watermelon wine is an excellent way to get creative and turn a simple fruit into a delightful and refreshing beverage. Making this homemade wine is an exciting activity that you can do with your friends or family. It’s also a unique gift idea that you can give to your loved ones. So, let’s get started on how to whip up a watermelon wine wonder!
Step 1: The prep work. Gather your ingredients and equipment.
Before you start making watermelon wine, you need to have the necessary ingredients and equipment. Here are the things that you need to prepare:
- 10 lbs ripe watermelon
- 2 lbs granulated sugar
- 1 tsp pectic enzyme
- 1 tsp yeast nutrient
- Wine yeast
- 1-gallon glass jug
- Airlock
- Funnel
- Cheesecloth
- Siphon
- Wine bottles with cork stoppers
Make sure that you have everything ready before you begin.
Step 2: Cut, scoop, and blend. Preparing the watermelon juice.
Start by washing the watermelon thoroughly and cut it into small pieces. Scoop out the flesh using a spoon, leaving the rind behind. Then, place the watermelon chunks into a blender and pulse until it’s pureed. Pour the juice into a container and strain it through cheesecloth to remove any pulp.
Step 3: Add the yeast and sugar. Time to start fermenting!
In a large pot, mix the watermelon juice, sugar, yeast nutrient, and pectic enzyme. Heat the mixture until the sugar dissolves completely. Let it cool down to room temperature. Once it’s cooled, add the wine yeast and stir. Transfer the mixture to the glass jug and put the airlock in place.
Step 4: Let it sit. Patience is key while the magic happens.
Place the glass jug in a cool and dark place. Let it ferment for about two weeks. During this time, the yeast will turn the sugar into alcohol. The longer you let it ferment, the stronger the wine will be. Make sure to check the airlock regularly to ensure that no bacteria or mold has formed.
Step 5: Rack it up. Separating the liquid from the solids.
After two weeks, it’s time to rack the wine. This means separating the liquid from the solids. To do this, siphon the liquid from the jug to another clean container, leaving the sediment at the bottom.
Step 6: Bottle it up. Time to get that watermelon wine in a bottle!
Once you’ve racked the wine, it’s time to bottle it up. Using a funnel, pour the liquid into clean wine bottles. Leave a few inches of space at the top to allow for the wine to breathe. Cork the bottles tightly.
Step 7: Age it a bit. Letting the flavors meld together.
It’s best to age the wine for a few months before drinking it. This allows the flavors to meld together and the wine to mellow out. Store the bottles in a cool and dark place, preferably on their sides.
Step 8: Serve it up. How to serve your watermelon wine wonder.
When serving watermelon wine, it’s best to chill it first before pouring it into a wine glass. You can add some fresh watermelon cubes or a mint sprig for garnish. You can also mix it with soda water or lemon-lime soda for a refreshing spritzer.
Step 9: Pair it up. The best foods to pair with your watermelon wine.
Watermelon wine pairs well with light meals such as salads, grilled fish, and chicken dishes. It also goes well with spicy foods, as the sweetness of the wine helps to counteract the heat.
Step 10: Share it with friends. Tips for hosting a watermelon wine tasting.
Invite your friends over for a watermelon wine tasting party. Prepare some light snacks and finger foods to go with the wine. You can also make a watermelon-themed centerpiece or decorations. Have fun and experiment with different pairings.
Cheers to a deliciously unique homemade wine!
Making watermelon wine is a fun and creative way to enjoy this delicious fruit. With a little patience and some basic equipment, you can whip up a refreshing and unique beverage that your friends and family will surely love. So, go ahead and give it a try. Cheers to a deliciously unique homemade wine!