If you’re a fan of both apple pie and wine, you might be interested to know that there’s a new trend in town: apple pie wine. This unique wine features fresh-pressed apple juice, combined with gentle sweet brown sugar and nutmeg spice, and a healthy heap of vanilla. The result is a wine that tastes just like a slice of fresh-baked apple pie, without the mess.
One of the most popular apple pie wines on the market is Oliver Apple Pie Wine, which is made by Oliver Winery & Vineyards. This wine is made with 100% fresh-pressed apple juice, and features the comforting taste of crisp baked apples, with warmth and gentle, sweet brown sugar and nutmeg spice. It’s the perfect wine to enjoy on a cozy evening at home, or to share with friends and family during the holidays.
If you’re interested in trying apple pie wine for yourself, you can find it at many liquor stores and wine shops, as well as online. Some wineries even offer apple pie wine tastings, where you can try a variety of different apple pie wines and learn more about how they’re made. So why not give apple pie wine a try and see what all the fuss is about?
History of Apple Pie Wine
Apple pie wine is a relatively new addition to the world of wine. It was first introduced by Oliver Winery in Indiana, USA, in 2015. The wine is made from fresh-pressed apple juice and is flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla to create a taste that is reminiscent of apple pie.
Since its introduction, apple pie wine has become a popular seasonal wine, especially during the fall and winter months. It has won several awards, including the Gold, Reserve Class Champion at the 2019 Rodeo Uncorked!® International Wine Competition, and Best of Class & Gold at the 2017 Indy International Wine Competition.
The popularity of apple pie wine has led to other wineries creating their own versions of the wine. St. James Winery in Missouri, USA, also produces an apple pie wine that is sweet and delicious with a hint of cinnamon spice.
Overall, the history of apple pie wine is short but sweet. It is a relatively new addition to the world of wine, but its popularity is growing rapidly. It is a perfect wine to enjoy during the fall and winter months, and its unique flavor makes it a great addition to any wine collection.
Ingredients and Varieties
When it comes to making apple pie wine, the selection of ingredients is critical to achieving the perfect flavor profile. In general, you will need a gallon of apple juice or cider, two cups of white table sugar, and a satchel of wine yeast. However, the apple variety, spices, and additives you choose can significantly impact the taste and aroma of the finished wine.
Apple Varieties
The type of apple you use is a crucial factor in determining the flavor of your apple pie wine. Some apple varieties that work well include Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, and Jonathan. Honeycrisp apples are sweet with a slight tartness, while Granny Smith apples are tart and acidic. Jonathan apples are sweet and juicy, making them an excellent choice for adding body to your wine.
Spices and Additives
To achieve the signature apple pie flavor, you’ll need to add spices and additives to your wine. Cinnamon sticks, ground cloves, and nutmeg are popular choices for adding warmth and spice to the wine. Golden raisins, pectic enzyme, yeast nutrient, and acid blend are also commonly used to enhance the flavor and aroma of the wine.
Wine Yeast Selection
Choosing the right wine yeast is essential to achieving the desired flavor profile for your apple pie wine. Red Star Premier Blanc or Cotes de Blanc are popular choices for apple pie wine as they can tolerate high levels of alcohol and produce a clean, crisp finish. It’s essential to choose a yeast that can handle the high sugar content of the apple juice to prevent fermentation problems.
Production Process
Fermentation Techniques
To make apple pie wine, you will need to follow a specific fermentation process. Start by washing and crushing the apples, then add water and sugar to the mixture. You can also add cinnamon or other spices to give your wine a unique flavor. Next, add yeast to the mixture and let it ferment for a few weeks. During this time, the yeast will convert the sugar into alcohol, and the wine will begin to take shape.
It is important to monitor the fermentation process closely to ensure that it is progressing as it should. You can use a hydrometer to measure the specific gravity of your wine and determine when it is ready to be bottled. Once the specific gravity stabilizes and the wine clears, it is time to move on to the next step.
Aging and Bottling
After the fermentation process is complete, it is time to age and bottle your apple pie wine. You can age your wine in oak barrels or stainless steel tanks, depending on your preference. Oak barrels will give your wine a richer, more complex flavor, while stainless steel tanks will preserve the wine’s natural flavors.
During the aging process, you will need to monitor the wine closely to ensure that it is developing as it should. You can taste the wine periodically to determine when it is ready to be bottled. Once the wine has reached its desired flavor profile, it is time to bottle it.
When bottling your wine, it is important to use clean, sterilized bottles to avoid contamination. You can use a siphon to transfer the wine from the aging vessel to the bottles, being careful not to disturb any sediment that may have formed. Finally, cork the bottles and store them in a cool, dark place to allow the wine to continue aging and developing its unique flavor.
Overall, making apple pie wine can be a fun and rewarding process, but it requires patience and attention to detail. By following the right fermentation techniques and aging processes, you can create a delicious wine that is perfect for any occasion.
Tasting Notes
If you’re looking for a unique and delicious wine to enjoy with dessert or on its own, Oliver Apple Pie wine is an excellent choice. This fresh-pressed, 100% apple wine has a sweet and spicy flavor profile that is sure to please your palate. Here are some tasting notes to help you appreciate the nuances of this wine:
Aroma Profile
When you first open a bottle of Oliver Apple Pie wine, you’ll notice a strong aroma of fresh apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg. These warm, comforting scents are reminiscent of a freshly baked apple pie, making this wine the perfect choice for fall and winter gatherings.
Flavor Characteristics
The flavor of Oliver Apple Pie wine is just as delightful as its aroma. You’ll taste crisp, tart apples, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and a hint of vanilla. The wine has a sweet, smooth finish that is not overly sugary or cloying. The 8.3% ABV is just enough to give you a little buzz without overpowering the flavors of the wine.
Food Pairing Suggestions
Oliver Apple Pie wine is an excellent choice to pair with desserts like apple pie, pumpkin pie, or bread pudding. The wine’s sweet, spicy flavors complement the warm, comforting flavors of these classic fall and winter desserts. You could also pair this wine with a cheese plate featuring sharp cheddar, gouda, or brie to balance out the sweetness of the wine.
Overall, Oliver Apple Pie wine is a unique and delicious wine that is perfect for fall and winter gatherings. Its warm, spicy flavors and sweet finish make it a great choice to pair with desserts or enjoy on its own.
Serving and Storage
Temperature Guidelines
To fully enjoy the flavors of apple pie wine, it is best served chilled. The ideal serving temperature for apple pie wine is between 45°F and 55°F. However, if you prefer a slightly warmer wine, you can serve it at room temperature.
When serving red wine with apple pie, it is recommended to serve it slightly chilled, around 60-65°F. This temperature brings out the fruit flavors and balances out the sweetness. White wine can also be paired with apple pie, and the key is to choose a wine that complements the sweetness of the dessert. A chilled white wine, such as a Riesling or Gewürztraminer, can be a great choice.
Shelf Life
Apple pie wine can last up to 5 years if stored properly. It is recommended to store the wine in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat.
Once opened, the wine should be consumed within 3-5 days. To preserve the wine’s flavor and aroma, store it in the refrigerator with a wine stopper or cork. If you have leftover wine, you can use it in cooking or baking recipes that call for wine.
Remember to always check the expiration date on the bottle before consuming. If the wine has gone bad, it will have a sour or vinegar-like smell. In this case, it is best to dispose of the wine.
By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your apple pie wine is served at the perfect temperature and stored correctly for maximum shelf life.
Health and Nutrition
If you’re watching your calorie intake, it’s important to know that apple pie wine is a dessert wine that contains calories. According to Fooducate, each gram of alcohol has 7 calories. This is more than the 4 calories per gram of carb or 9 calories per gram of fat. So, it’s essential to drink apple pie wine in moderation.
Apple pie wine is made from apples, which are a good source of antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. According to Oliver Winery & Vineyards, their apple pie wine combines the comforting taste of crisp baked apples with warmth and gentle, sweet brown sugar and nutmeg spice. The wine is also gluten-free and vegan-friendly, making it a suitable choice for people with dietary restrictions.
In conclusion, apple pie wine is a delicious dessert wine that can be enjoyed in moderation. It’s made from apples, which are a good source of antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that apple pie wine contains calories, so it’s important to drink it in moderation.
Legal and Labeling Requirements
When it comes to producing and selling apple pie wine, there are various legal and labeling requirements that you must follow. These requirements are put in place to ensure that the wine is safe for consumption and that consumers are provided with accurate and useful information about the product.
Alcohol Content
One of the most important legal requirements for apple pie wine is the alcohol content. In the United States, wine is defined as a beverage that contains at least 7% alcohol by volume (ABV) and no more than 24% ABV. However, apple pie wine is often made with a higher ABV due to the addition of distilled spirits. In this case, the wine must be labeled as a “fortified wine” and must comply with additional labeling requirements.
Labeling Requirements
The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) enforces a variety of labeling requirements for wine. These requirements include mandatory information such as the alcohol content, the net contents, and the name and address of the producer or bottler. Additionally, there are optional labeling elements such as the vintage date, the grape variety, and the region where the grapes were grown.
It is important to note that any health claims or statements on the label must comply with the regulations set forth by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For example, you cannot claim that your apple pie wine has health benefits unless you have scientific evidence to support the claim.
Approval Process
Before you can sell your apple pie wine, you must submit the label for approval by the TTB. The label must comply with all of the legal and labeling requirements, and any claims or statements on the label must be supported by evidence. The approval process can take several weeks, so it is important to plan ahead and submit your label in a timely manner.
By following these legal and labeling requirements, you can ensure that your apple pie wine is safe for consumption and that consumers have accurate and useful information about the product.
Crafting at Home
Equipment Needed
Making apple pie wine at home requires some basic equipment. Here is a list of the essential items you will need:
- Apple juice or cider
- Sugar
- Yeast
- Campden tablets
- Acid blend
- Pectic enzyme
- Airlock and stopper
- Hydrometer
- Large pot
- Fermenting bucket
- Muslin or nylon bag
- Funnel
- Siphon
- Bottles and corks
Most of these items can be found at your local homebrew store or online. A wine starter kit will also have most or all of these tools, so you can look into getting one to save yourself some hassle. Some of these items are common kitchen implements, so you’ll probably already have them at home.
Step-by-Step Guide
Here is a step-by-step guide to making apple pie wine at home:
- Sanitize all equipment with a solution of Campden tablets and water. This will help prevent contamination and spoilage.
- Pour the apple juice or cider into a large pot and heat it up to about 140°F. This will help dissolve the sugar and kill off any wild yeast.
- Add the sugar and stir until it is completely dissolved.
- Let the mixture cool down to room temperature.
- Add the yeast, acid blend, and pectic enzyme to the mixture and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a fermenting bucket and add the muslin or nylon bag filled with raisins.
- Cover the bucket with an airlock and stopper and let it ferment for about 2-4 weeks.
- Once the wine has fermented and cleared, transfer it to a secondary fermenter using a siphon.
- Let it age for a few months before bottling.
- Cork the bottles and let them age for another few months before enjoying your homemade apple pie wine.
Remember to keep everything clean and sanitized throughout the process to ensure the best possible outcome.
Commercial Producers
If you’re interested in trying apple pie wine, there are several commercial producers that offer this unique beverage. Here are a few of the most well-known:
Oliver Winery & Vineyards
Oliver Winery & Vineyards is one of the largest wine operations in the United States and is known for its award-winning apple pie wine. The wine is made from fresh-pressed apples and contains notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. It has an ABV of 8.3% and is available year-round both in stores and online.
St. Julian Winery
St. Julian Winery is a family-owned business that has been producing wine for over 100 years. Their apple pie wine is made from Michigan apples and contains hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. It has an ABV of 8.5% and is available seasonally in the fall.
Tabor Hill Winery
Tabor Hill Winery is a Michigan-based winery that produces a variety of wines, including an apple pie wine. Their version is made from 100% apple juice and contains notes of cinnamon and vanilla. It has an ABV of 10% and is available seasonally in the fall.
Chateau Chantal Winery
Chateau Chantal Winery is a Michigan-based winery that produces a variety of wines, including an apple cherry pie wine. Their version is made from a blend of Michigan-grown apples and cherries and contains notes of cinnamon and vanilla. It has an ABV of 12% and is available seasonally in the fall.
Overall, there are several commercial producers of apple pie wine that you can try. Each winery has its unique take on the beverage, so it’s worth trying a few different versions to find your favorite.
Market Trends and Consumption
Apple pie wine has become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly during the fall season. According to Tastewise, the popularity of apple pie has increased by 61.02% over the past year, with an average consumption rate of 1.37 times per year. In restaurants, the market adoption rate for apple pie is 8.17%, with an average pricing of $6.26 and it appears in 0.17% of recipes.
The rise in popularity of apple pie wine can be attributed to its unique flavor profile, which combines the sweetness of apples with the warm, comforting spices of cinnamon and nutmeg. As a result, it has become a popular choice for fall gatherings and holiday celebrations.
In addition to its seasonal appeal, apple pie wine is also a versatile beverage that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It pairs well with a range of desserts, including apple pie, pumpkin pie, and other fall favorites. It can also be used as a base for cocktails, such as a spiked apple cider or a fall sangria.
Overall, the market trends and consumption of apple pie wine demonstrate its growing popularity among consumers. Its unique flavor profile and versatility make it an attractive choice for fall gatherings and holiday celebrations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good recipe for homemade apple pie wine?
Making homemade apple pie wine can be a fun and rewarding experience. To make your own wine, you will need fresh apples, sugar, yeast, and water. You can find many recipes for homemade apple pie wine online, but it is important to follow the recipe closely to ensure the best results. One recipe you may want to try is this one, which uses fresh apples and cinnamon sticks to create a delicious and aromatic wine.
What type of wine pairs well with a serving of apple pie?
When it comes to pairing wine with apple pie, you’ll want to choose a wine that complements the flavors of the dessert. A sweet wine like Oliver Apple Pie wine can be a great choice, as it has notes of tart apple, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Other sweet wines that pair well with apple pie include Riesling, Moscato, and Gewurztraminer. If you prefer a red wine, try a Pinot Noir or a Zinfandel.
Est-il recommandé de servir le vin Oliver Apple Pie frais ?
Pour une expérience optimale, refroidissez le vin Oliver Apple Pie avant de le servir afin d’accentuer ses saveurs et de le rendre plus rafraîchissant. Vous pouvez réfrigérer le vin pendant quelques heures ou utiliser un seau à glace pour le refroidir rapidement. Veillez à ne pas trop refroidir le vin, car un froid excessif peut atténuer ses saveurs.
Peut-on réchauffer le vin à la tarte aux pommes avant de le servir ?
Yes, you can warm up apple pie wine before serving to create a cozy and comforting drink. To warm up the wine, place it in a saucepan and heat it gently over low heat. Be careful not to boil the wine, as this can cause it to lose its flavor and aroma. You can also add a cinnamon stick or a slice of apple to the wine as it warms up to enhance the flavors.
Which retailers carry Oliver Apple Pie wine?
Oliver Apple Pie wine is available at many retailers, both online and in-store. You can purchase it directly from Oliver Winery’s website or at select wine shops and liquor stores. Check with your local retailer to see if they carry Oliver Apple Pie wine.
How does the alcohol content in Oliver Apple Pie wine compare to other fruit wines?
Oliver Apple Pie wine has an alcohol content of 8.3%, which is similar to other fruit wines like strawberry wine and raspberry wine. However, it is important to note that the alcohol content can vary depending on the specific wine and the fermentation process used. Always check the label for the alcohol content before consuming any wine.