Rosé is one of the quickest wines to make at home. Unlike red wines that require long maceration, rosé is ready in just 4-6 weeks!
Quick Rosé Recipe
Ingredients
- 15 lbs red grapes (any variety)
- 1 packet wine yeast
- 3 tsp yeast nutrient
- Campden tablets
Method
Day 1: Crush and Ferment
Crush your grapes and add them to a fermentation bucket. Add crushed Campden tablet (one per gallon). Wait 12 hours, then add yeast.
Days 2-4: Short Maceration
Let the juice sit with skins for just 24-48 hours. This gives the pink color without the tannins of red wine. Stir twice daily.
Day 5: Press
Press the wine and transfer to a carboy. Ferment at 65-70°F for 3-4 weeks.
Week 6: Bottle
When fermentation stops and wine clears, bottle. Rosé is best enjoyed young!
Tips for Perfect Rosé
- Use grapes with good color like Cabernet Franc or Merlot
- Don't over-macerate - watch the color closely
- Serve chilled for best flavor