Growing a vineyard in your own back yard is the topic of three interactive classes at the New York Wine and Culinary Center in Canandaigua. Ed Kwiek, who has maintained his own backyard vineyard in Perinton, NY since 2000, teaches the classes. One class serves as an introduction, while the others focus on installing and maintaining your vineyard, and on making wine from your grapes.
Any student who takes all three classes will be awarded a NY Wine and Culinary Center certificate, suitable for framing. Each class costs $60 and includes a tasting of three different hand-made Woods Wine. To register, use this link NY Wine and Culinary Center The center is at 800 S. Main St., Canandaigua. For more information, call (585) 394-7070, or visit WoodsWine.com.
Class: BV302–Harvest, Crush, Fermentation, and Press
There are many elements included in determining the correct time to harvest your grapes. In this class we will look at those elements, and there will be a hands-on demonstration of using a field refractometer. Crusher types will be discussed as well as a high level overview of the chemical additives recommended during the crush. Both whites and reds will be discussed. We will then move on to the tools and equipment used during the fermentation process. We will have a high level overview of chaptalization, enzymes, yeast selection, nutrients, and punch downs. The various types of presses available, and wine handling after pressing, will be discussed. Upon completion of this class, the student will be equipped with enough information to make wine from grapes on their own.
