How can I increase the alcohol content of my homemade wine?
April 24th, 2010 | Published in Wine | 6 Comments
I am using the Selection and Vinter’s reserve wine kits, and I would like to elevate my alcohol levels, which typically come out at about 10.5-12%, to 14-15%. Is there an easy way to do this, without harming the character of the wine? Can I just add sugar or corn sugar?
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April 24th, 2010 at 8:51 am (#)
Add grain spirits, like Mad Dog 20-20
April 24th, 2010 at 8:54 am (#)
I am led to believe more sugar and a second fermentation… ?
April 24th, 2010 at 9:43 am (#)
put Kahlua in it
April 24th, 2010 at 10:15 am (#)
* Natural methods: add sugar. This only works with hardy enough yeast; if you’re trying to increase it that high, you’ll probvably need some Californian strain that won’t die off at high alcohol levels.
* Distilling: I don’t recommend this for home use. has step-by-step directions, if you want to try this.
* Artificial methods: add high-proof liquor to the wine. Brandy or something without strong flavoring would be best.
April 24th, 2010 at 10:47 am (#)
The Europeans add Cognac or brandy (which is distilled from wine) to their wine and call it “fortified” wine. It doesn’t harm the flavor and it increases the alcohol content!
April 24th, 2010 at 11:15 am (#)
A second fermentation would work, adding too much secondary sugar might defeat the purpose of the secondary fermentation.
The kit wines are very specifically designed for easy results. To get more control, buy fresh juice this fall. A good book to read to get started is ” the home wine makers companion”. With fresh juice and control of fermentation you should get stronger wine.
If that fails, look into making ethanol.