Home winemakers get creative when it comes to crafting their wines. While the basic steps are the same, vinters modify them based on need or availability. For example, when sourcing grapes, they may pick from their own vineyard or a commerical vineyard. They may buy grapes already harvested. In some cases, they can even find a grower who will pick, crush/destem, and press the grapes, providing juice (for a white wine). They can buy frozen grapes or use kit wines. Whatever the source, the winemaker continues the process in their own creative way. For most beginners, the garage becomes a winery, much to the dismay of the cars that now sit outside. For the lucky few, they may have a cool basement in which to continue. Eventually some move beyond the garage and build special wine rooms or sheds. Once the wine is bottled, now comes the fun of labeling the wine, drinking the wine and entering the wines and labels into competitions. Along the way, no matter the trials and tribulations, home winemakers enjoy their hobby, as can be attested by the following photographs.
WineMaker Magazine names CCWG
the 2025 club of the year
The CCWG team in attendance
Our President Bob Joakimson wins Winemaker of the Year
Our very own Sue Morgan wins “Grand Champion Wine”
2025 California State Fair Home Wine Competition
Eleven CCWG members entered and won a total of 54 ribbons including one Best Of Class, seven Double Golds and ten Golds. Gold medals and above were invited to pour their wines at the awards ceremony held at the State Fair.
Home winemakers craft a variety of wines including red, white, rose, dessert, sparkling and port. And with each variety, there are production choices: which varietal, which yeast, to add nutrients or not, to oak or not to oak. And if it’s to oak: in an oak barrel or in a carboy with oak chips. There’s a wine variety and style for everyone! The advantage of making your own wine is that you can make it to please your palate. And, in the process, you meet like minded folks who share your passion. Come and join the fun. Release the inner winemaker in you!