What is the difference between red and white plum wines?
Plum wines or umeshu, as they’re called in Japan, are a popular alcoholic beverage enjoyed both at home and in restaurants. But what is the difference between red and white plum wines? Here, we take a look at this popular drink and its varieties.
The primary difference between red and white plum wines is that red plum wines typically taste sweeter and more intense than white plum wines. This is because red plum wines are made with more sugar and yeast than white plum wines. Red plum wines are made from dark-skinned red plums, while white plum wines are made from lighter-skinned white plums. The darkness of the plum skin contributes to the richer color and flavor of red plum wines.
In terms of texture and flavor, red plum wines tend to have a sweeter and more intense taste than white plum wines. They also usually have more tannins, which contribute to their bitter, dry finish. Red plum wines also tend to be slightly richer in alcohol content, as they are made with more sugar and yeast.
When it comes to production methods, red and white plum wines have some differences. Both can be made using traditional brewing techniques, in which the plum puree is combined with sugar and then left to ferment. However, white plum wines can also be made using modern methods. For example, white plum wines can be fermented in stainless steel tanks, which helps to produce a light and crisp flavor.
In terms of serving styles, red and white plum wines are typically enjoyed chilled and served as a dessert wine or an aperitif. For example, red plum wines are often enjoyed with fruits and cheeses as an accompaniment to a light meal. White plum wines, on the other hand, are often enjoyed on their own as an aperitif. They’re also a popular choice for mixing into cocktails.
Overall, the main differences between red and white plum wines come down to their flavor, texture, and production methods. Red plum wines are usually darker and more intense in flavor, richer in alcohol content, and made using traditional brewing methods. Meanwhile, white plum wines tend to be lighter and crisper in flavor, lower in alcohol content, and can be made using modern brewing methods. Both types of plum wines are perfect to serve chilled and are great accompaniments to a variety of meals or as an aperitif. Published here
What equipment is needed to make plum wine?
Making one’s own plum wine is a fun and rewarding process. Not only is the finished product an enjoyable beverage, but the process itself can be an excellent way to get acquainted with the basics of home winemaking. For those who have decided to give it a go, getting the right wine making equipment is essential and can set someone up for success.
The essential equipment for making plum wine will vary slightly to what one might need for other types of wines; so, it’s important to ensure you have the right equipment for making the wine you want to make.
Essentially, the major items one will need for making plum wine are a primary fermenter, a test jar, airlocks, siphon and racking hoses, bottles, a hydrometer, stirring spoons, a carboy, and a bottling bucket.
A primary fermenter is needed, to get the juice converted into wine. An appropriate size will depend on how much wine one is making, but generally five gallons is a good starting size. The fermentation needs to happen in a restricted environment, so an appropriate lid should be purchased.
The test jar is used to take a sample of the wine, so that it can be tested during the making process. It should be rinsed to remove any bacteria and should only be used once.
Airlocks are needed to allow fermentation gas to escape while keeping contaminants out. If purchasing, look for quality airlocks, as this will contribute to a better quality wine.
Siphon and racking hoses are used to gently move the wine from one container to another, without introducing any additional oxygen.
Bottles are necessary for storing and serving the finished wine. Quality bottles are the best answer for long-term wine storage, but this equipment is also essential for serving the wine when it’s ready.
The hydrometer is an instrument used to measure the sugar content of the wine. This helps to ensure that fermentation is completed correctly and the wine is of an appropriate quality.
Stirring spoons are also needed, to help mix all the ingredients together into the primary fermenter.
A carboy is necessary to move the wine, once fermentation is complete. The shape of the carboy allows the sediment to fall to the bottom, so that the wine can be safely transferred without disturbing the sediment.
And finally, a bottling bucket is necessary to bottling the fermented wine.
With these pieces of wine making equipment, someone can get started making a wonderful plum wine. Taking the time to source quality equipment can help ensure a successful experience and a delicious finished product.
Visit howtomakewinefromgrapes.com to learn more about make plum wine. Disclaimer: We used this website as a reference for this blog post.