You don't need expensive equipment to make great wine at home. Here's what you really need to get started.

Must-Have Equipment

1. Primary Fermentation Bucket

A 6-7 gallon food-grade plastic bucket with a lid. Used for initial fermentation where you'll crush grapes and let them ferment.

2. Carboys

Glass or plastic carboys (5-gallon) for secondary fermentation and aging. Glass is preferred as it doesn't scratch and is easier to keep sanitized.

3. Airlock and Bung

These seal your carboy while allowing CO2 to escape. Essential for preventing oxidation.

4. Siphoning Tubing

Food-grade tubing for racking (transferring) wine between containers without disturbing sediment.

5. Wine Press

For pressing grapes. Options range from simple basket presses to more elaborate models. For beginners, cheesecloth works for small batches.

6. Hydrometer

Measures sugar content (Brix) and helps track fermentation progress. Essential for knowing when fermentation is complete.

7. Sanitizer

Star San or sodium metabisulfite for keeping everything clean. Sanitation is the #1 key to good wine.

8. Bottling Supplies

Bottles, corks, and a corker. You can start with used wine bottles.

Nice to Have