Have you ever wanted to discover the tips and tricks of home winemaking? Then Winemaking Weekend at The Lodge is an ideal getaway for fledgling and intermediate home winemakers – Friday, March 18 through Sunday, March 20 at The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake. Hosted by The Lodge’s Certified Wine Specialist Lauren Fiala, the weekend includes: a two-night stay, Friday reception, winemaking workshop with materials provided, breakfast each morning, and wine tour to nearby vineyards on Saturday. Winemaking techniques include starting your yeast culture, fermentation and testing, and flavor profiles.
Fiala, who has led a variety of winemaking programs, is affiliated with Kent State University’s The Viticulture Enology Science and Technology Alliance (VESTA) , the university’s winemaking program on its Ashtabula campus. The weekend will include a lecture and hands-on experience with handouts to reference as the fermentation process is completed. “It’s a great getaway with the opportunity to discover and cultivate home winemaking skills. There’s even the opportunity to visit local wineries,” said Fiala.
The Winemaking Weekend at The Lodge schedule includes*:
- Friday March 18
- 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. – Reception on Friday evening with The Lodge’s signature wines paired with cheese with a review of plans for the weekend
- Saturday March 19
- 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. – Breakfast in Horizons Restaurant
- 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. – Seminar on how to make wine, including working with the juice (choice of either five gallon (20 L) Australian Cabernet Sauvignon or Chenin Blanc); how to start your yeast and fermentation
- 12:30 p.m. Take The Lodge wine shuttle to area wineries (three stops)
- Sunday March 20
- 8:00 to 9:00 a.m. – Breakfast in Horizons Restaurant
- 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. – Learn about monitoring and finishing fermentation and bottling; participants take carboys home at the completion of the weekend.
Starter kit materials provided by Presque Isle Wine Cellars
* Call 866-806-8066 to secure your spot and join this limited seating winemaking experience. Package starting at $608+tax per couple. Package includes: a two-night stay, Friday reception, winemaking workshop with materials provided, breakfast each morning, wine tour to nearby vineyards on Saturday. Winemaking techniques include: starting your yeast culture, fermentation and testing, flavor profiles. Hosted by Certified Wine Specialist Lauren Fiala. Must be 21+ to book the Winemaking Weekend at The Lodge. Use promo code MAKEWINE at time of booking. Package is subject to availability. Taxes not included.