Shiraz – California

This California Shiraz kit produces a full-bodied dry red with blackberry, spice and black-cherry character. The 8-litre kit makes 23 litres at approximately 13% ABV and is designed to be ready in about four weeks.

Wine style

• Sweetness: 0/10
• Body: 4/5
• Oak: 2/3

What else you will need

Use clean wine-making equipment, suitable sanitiser and enough bottles or another appropriate vessel for 23 litres. Follow the kit schedule carefully, then allow additional maturation if you prefer a softer, more integrated red.

Check fermentation progress

Use a Hydrometer to measure specific gravity at the stages set out in the kit instructions, rather than relying on the calendar alone.