That time of the year again



When the wooden barrel comes out it is that time of the
year again to make the moonshine (tsuika) and wine.

The barrel needs to be soaked with water so as to close
the joints. The water makes the wood expand.

It has been extremely hot and dry this summer here in town.
In fact this week we have had a stretch of 95 to 100 degree
weather throughout, rare for here.

Also, it has hardly rained at all this summer and
the first thought that comes to mind is
that Global Warming has a hand in this.

We all know that Global Warming is not good but what
it does do for the grapes ... through the dry weather

.

... is make them naturally sweeter.

In a few weeks they will pick the grapes and fire
up the still and begin the processes of making the
wine and moonshine. It is a time of great happiness
and I am suspicious that maybe the tasting is the
reason for this.

I think that the customs of making homemade wine
is one of those customs that shouldn't be forgotten.
It is more than just making wine it is a social event,
a positive one at that.

I will post some pictures of this year's wine making
as it unfolds, stay tuned.