Shrdlu Dew
A simple homemade wine recipe using grape juice concentrate and yeast, producing a sweet, rosy beverage with fruity flavors, ideal for DIY enthusiasts and casual drinkers.
Ingredients
- 1 small cake yeast
- 4 cups sugar
- 1 large can frozen grape juice concentrate ⓘ
- 1 large balloon
Instructions
- Put yeast, sugar, and grape juice into a sterilized 1-gallon jug and fill with water.
- Slip a balloon over the mouth of the jug, sealing the contents from the atmosphere.
- Allow fermentation to occur; the balloon will inflate as fermentation progresses.
- When the balloon deflates, the wine is ready to be enjoyed.
- The fermentation process takes approximately 6 weeks.
- Reusing the balloon can reduce the cost of each gallon to about $.79.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure the yeast is fresh and active before use. If you can't find small cake yeast, you can substitute with the same amount of active dry yeast. Keep the jug in a warm, dark place to encourage fermentation. If you're new to winemaking, consider starting with a smaller batch to get comfortable with the process.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Shrdlu Dew chilled in wine glasses for a delightful experience. It pairs beautifully with Derrick Kegley'S Applesauce Cake for a sweet finish. This homemade wine also complements rich cheeses and charcuterie boards, making it a great choice for gatherings or casual dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Once the fermentation is complete, transfer the Shrdlu Dew into bottles. Store in a cool, dark place to preserve its flavor. If you have leftovers, ensure the bottles are sealed tightly to prevent oxidation. It is best enjoyed chilled, so refrigerate before serving for optimal taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrdlu Dew contains roughly 24 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell when the fermentation is complete?
You can tell the fermentation is complete when the balloon has deflated. This indicates that the yeast has consumed most of the sugar and produced carbon dioxide. Allow a few extra days after deflation to ensure all fermentation is finished before bottling.
Can I use other juice flavors for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different frozen juice concentrates such as apple or cranberry. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change, but the fermentation process remains the same. Each juice will impart its unique characteristics to the final product.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
The Shrdlu Dew recipe is inherently vegan since it does not contain any animal products. Just ensure that all ingredients, especially the yeast, are certified vegan. This makes it a great option for those seeking vegan recipes without compromising on flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).