As the sun begins to set and the summer heat starts to fade, there’s no better way to cap off a warm day than with a refreshing glass of homemade fruit wine. Not only is it a delicious and unique beverage option, but making your own fruit wine can also be a fun and rewarding experience. Whether you’re a seasoned winemaker or just starting out, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 exquisite fruit wine recipes perfect for beginners.
From sweet and fruity blends to tangy and herbal combinations, these recipes showcase the best of what nature has to offer in terms of flavor and aroma. With a little creativity and some basic supplies, you can create your own signature fruit wines to enjoy on their own or share with friends and family.
Strawberry Basil Wine
Elevate your wine game with this refreshing summer sipper that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the brightness of basil. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of white wine (Chardonnay or Riesling work well)
– 1 cup of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, strawberry slices, and chopped basil.
2. Let it infuse in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Just before serving, stir in the honey until dissolved.
4. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and stir well.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional fresh strawberries and basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None (infusion only)
Peach Ginger Wine
This refreshing wine combines the sweetness of peaches with the warmth of ginger, perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening. With its unique blend of flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite among wine enthusiasts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup peach puree
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions:
1. Combine peach puree and water in a large pot. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 180°F.
2. Remove from heat and add brown sugar, ginger, and yeast. Stir until dissolved.
3. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then transfer to a sanitized fermentation vessel.
4. Seal and store at 65-75°F for 7-10 days, or until fermentation is complete.
5. Strain and bottle, leaving about an inch of headspace.
Cooking Time:
– Fermentation time: 7-10 days
– Total time: approximately 11-15 days
Blueberry Lavender Wine
This sweet and savory wine recipe combines the luscious flavors of blueberries and lavender, resulting in a unique and refreshing drink perfect for special occasions or everyday enjoyment.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 3 lbs blueberries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) wine yeast (Champagne or Red Star)
– 1 tablespoon acid blend (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine water, blueberries, and sugar in a large pot; bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat, simmer for 30 minutes, and strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher.
3. Add red wine, lavender buds, and yeast; stir well.
4. Cover the pitcher and let it ferment at room temperature (68°F -72°F) for 7-10 days.
5. Strain the wine again and transfer to glass bottles with tight-fitting lids.
6. Store in a cool, dark place for 2-3 months before serving.
Cooking Time: 7-10 days (fermentation time)
Raspberry Mint Wine
Escape to a refreshing summer evening with this sweet and tangy Raspberry Mint Wine recipe. This fruity twist on traditional wine is perfect for sipping by the pool or serving at your next outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon dried mint leaves
– 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions:
1. Combine raspberries and sugar in a blender or food processor; blend until smooth.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds.
3. In a large pitcher, combine the raspberry puree, white wine, water, mint leaves, and lemon juice.
4. Stir well to combine and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh raspberries and mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Apple Cinnamon Wine
Transform your home into a cozy autumn retreat with this warm and inviting Apple Cinnamon Wine recipe. Perfect for crisp fall evenings, this wine is infused with the sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 3 lbs apples (any variety), peeled and chopped
– 2 cups sugar
– 2 tsp cinnamon powder
– 1 tsp yeast nutrient
– 1 packet (0.25 oz) wine yeast (Red Star Premier Cuvee or similar)
– 1 bottle of red wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine water, apples, and sugar in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon powder and yeast nutrient. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Pitch the yeast packet and cover the pot with cheesecloth or a breathable cloth. Ferment at room temperature (68-72°F) for 7-10 days, or until bubbles appear on surface.
4. Strain wine into a secondary fermentation vessel. Allow to ferment an additional 2-3 months before bottling and enjoying.
Cooking Time: 7-10 days (primary fermentation), 2-3 months (secondary fermentation)
Pineapple Coconut Wine
Escape the heat with this tropical twist on a classic wine recipe. This Pineapple Coconut Wine combines sweet and tangy flavors to create a refreshing summer drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry or off-dry)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Slices of fresh pineapple for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pineapple juice and coconut cream. Stir until well combined.
2. Add the white wine and stir gently to combine.
3. Add honey and stir until dissolved.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh pineapple slices.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is a quick and easy way to beat the heat.
Blackberry Lime Wine
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of blackberries and limes with this refreshing homemade wine recipe. Perfect for warm weather, this wine is ideal for sipping on its own or pairing with summer dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 3 pounds granulated sugar
– 6 cups blackberries, crushed
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1 campden tablet (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine water and yeast in a large pot. Stir to dissolve yeast, then let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add sugar, crushing it with the back of a spoon to release flavors. Bring mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and add crushed blackberries, lime juice, and sliced lemon. Let steep for 10-15 minutes, or until mixture has cooled to room temperature.
4. Strain wine into a sanitized fermentation vessel. If using campden tablet, dissolve it in the wine according to package instructions.
5. Ferment wine at 65°F – 75°F (18°C – 24°C) for 7-10 days. Rack and bottle when fermentation is complete.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes preparation, 7-10 days fermentation
Cherry Vanilla Wine
Create a refreshing and fruity wine perfect for warm weather gatherings with this simple recipe. With the sweetness of cherry and the creaminess of vanilla, this wine is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle (750ml) of white wine (Chardonnay or Riesling work well)
– 1/2 cup of cherry juice
– 1/4 cup of vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon of sugar
– Fresh cherries and mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Chill the white wine in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a large pitcher, combine the chilled wine, cherry juice, and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine.
3. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve the Cherry Vanilla Wine over ice with fresh cherries and mint leaves for garnish, if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (preparation only)
Mango Passionfruit Wine
Combine the luscious flavors of mango and passionfruit with this unique wine recipe. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a special treat, this wine is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs mango puree
– 1 lb passionfruit pulp
– 2 lbs granulated sugar
– 6 cups water
– 1 packet (0.25 oz) of wine yeast
– 1 teaspoon acid blend
– 1/4 teaspoon pectic enzyme
Instructions:
1. Combine mango puree, passionfruit pulp, and sugar in a large pot.
2. Add water and bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature (approx. 70°F).
4. Add wine yeast, acid blend, and pectic enzyme. Stir gently.
5. Transfer mixture to a sanitized fermentation vessel or food-grade container.
6. Cover and ferment at 68-72°F for 2-3 weeks, or until bubbles cease.
7. Rack (transfer) wine to secondary fermentation vessel or bottle.
8. Age at least 6 months before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Plum Cardamom Wine
This fragrant wine combines the sweetness of plums with the warm spices of cardamom, perfect for a unique and flavorful drink. With just a few simple steps, you can create this exotic beverage in your own home.
Ingredients:
• 2 lbs (1 kg) fresh or dried plums
• 1 cup (250 ml) water
• 1/4 cup (60 g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 packet (0.25 oz/7g) active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the plums and combine them with water, sugar, and cardamom in a large pot.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and add yeast and lemon juice. Stir well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a sanitized wine bottle or jug and seal tightly.
5. Store at room temperature (68-72°F/20-22°C) for 6-8 weeks, shaking occasionally.
6. Strain and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Watermelon Rosemary Wine
Elevate your summer gatherings with this unique and refreshing wine cocktail, perfect for hot days by the pool or a relaxing evening with friends. This sweet and savory blend combines the juiciness of watermelon with the herbaceousness of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups watermelon puree
– 1 cup white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
– 1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine watermelon puree and white wine. Stir until well combined.
2. Add fresh rosemary leaves to the pitcher and muddle gently with a spoon or muddler to release oils and flavors.
3. Add honey and stir until dissolved.
4. Chill mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve over ice cubes and garnish with additional rosemary sprigs, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing wine is ready to serve immediately.
Kiwi Honey Wine
Create a refreshing and flavorful wine using kiwis and honey! This sweet and tangy recipe is perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe kiwis, peeled and pureed
– 1 cup honey
– 2 cups water
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Combine kiwi puree, honey, water, and yeast in a large pot. Stir until the yeast is fully dissolved.
2. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Transfer mixture to a sanitized fermentation vessel or glass jar with a wide mouth. Secure lid tightly.
5. Allow wine to ferment at room temperature (68-72°F) for 2 weeks, shaking the vessel daily.
6. Strain wine through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container. Discard solids.
7. Store wine in the refrigerator to slow down fermentation and clarify.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes + 14 days fermentation
Apricot Almond Wine
This Apricot Almond Wine recipe combines the sweetness of apricots with the nutty flavor of almonds, perfect for a unique and refreshing dessert or after-dinner treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried apricots
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon orange liqueur (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the apricots and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and puree the apricots with the sugar until smooth.
3. In a large pot, combine the apricot mixture, sliced almonds, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Strain the wine through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard the solids.
5. If using orange liqueur, stir it in just before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 2 cups (serves 6-8)
Orange Clove Wine
Elevate your wine game with this unique and refreshing Orange Clove Wine recipe, perfect for warm weather gatherings or cozy nights by the fire. This flavorful blend combines the sweetness of orange with the warmth of clove to create a one-of-a-kind taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle white wine (Chardonnay or Riesling work well)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons orange liqueur (such as Grand Marnier)
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– 6 whole cloves
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine white wine, orange juice, and orange liqueur.
2. Add the broken cinnamon stick and whole cloves to the mixture.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it steep for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Strain the wine into a serving jug or individual glasses.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Grapefruit Thyme Wine
This unique wine recipe combines the tangy flavor of grapefruit with the subtle earthiness of thyme, creating a refreshing and complex drink perfect for warm weather gatherings or casual sipping.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle white wine (dry)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 sprig fresh thyme
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the white wine and grapefruit juice.
2. Add the honey and stir until dissolved.
3. Add the fresh thyme sprig to the pitcher and let it infuse for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
4. Strain the wine mixture into individual glasses filled with ice cubes.
5. Garnish each glass with a slice of grapefruit, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (infusion time)
Pear Ginger Wine
This recipe combines the sweetness of pears with the spiciness of ginger to create a unique and delicious wine perfect for sipping on its own or using as a base for cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart (32 oz) pear juice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup fresh ginger, sliced
– 1 packet (0.25 oz) active dry yeast
– 1 lemon, juiced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine pear juice, water, and sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved.
2. Add sliced ginger to the pot and remove from heat. Let it steep for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl. Discard the solids.
4. Add yeast packet to the liquid and stir gently to dissolve.
5. Pour the mixture into glass bottles, leaving about 1 inch of headspace. Secure with corks or screwcaps.
6. Store in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks to allow fermentation to complete.
Cooking Time: 4 hours (steeping) + 2 weeks (fermentation)
Fig Honey Wine
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of figs with the warm, golden flavor of honey to create a unique and delicious wine. Perfect for serving as an apéritif or paired with cheese and charcuterie.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb dried figs
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup honey
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine dried figs and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
2. Strain the fig mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot, pressing on solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
3. Add honey, sugar, and yeast to the fig liquid. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until wine reaches desired sweetness.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Strain into glass bottles and store in refrigerator.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Cranberry Orange Wine
Combine the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of oranges and the sophistication of wine for a unique and refreshing beverage. This recipe is perfect for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 orange, peeled and sliced
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon wine yeast (available at brewing supply stores)
– 1/2 teaspoon acid blend (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine cranberries, orange slices, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Strain mixture through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl or jug. Discard solids.
5. Add wine yeast and acid blend (if using). Stir gently to combine.
6. Allow the mixture to ferment at room temperature (68-72°F) for 2-3 weeks, or until bubbles form on the surface.
7. Strain and bottle. Store in a cool, dark place.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus fermentation time)
Lemon Basil Wine
Elevate your wine game with this refreshing and flavorful Lemon Basil Wine recipe. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or everyday sipping, this wine is infused with the brightness of lemon and the subtlety of basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of white wine (Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc work well)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, lemon juice, sugar, and water. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the chopped basil leaves to the mixture and stir gently.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve the Lemon Basil Wine over ice cubes and garnish with additional basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (chilling time)
Pomegranate Mint Wine
This Pomegranate Mint Wine is a unique and flavorful twist on traditional wine, perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a gift. The combination of sweet pomegranate juice and refreshing mint creates a delightful and revitalizing beverage.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of white wine (750ml)
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Chill the white wine in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
2. In a large pitcher, combine the chilled wine, pomegranate juice, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add fresh mint leaves to the pitcher and stir gently.
4. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve the Pomegranate Mint Wine over ice cubes in glasses and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 hours
Summary
Discover the art of making exquisite fruit wines at home with our collection of 20 recipes perfect for beginners. From classic combinations like Strawberry Basil and Peach Ginger to unique flavors like Kiwi Honey and Fig Honey, there’s something for every taste bud. Our recipe list features a variety of fruits, herbs, and spices, offering endless possibilities for experimentation. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing summer sipper or a warm winter treat, these fruit wine recipes are sure to delight.