It dawned on me that being 12 miles from Burton on Trent that I really might consider some IPA. I am using an American IPA kit from Cheers in Long Eaton. Wendy runs it and is very helpful and knowledgeable. The beer is awesome stuff.
We got a very lucky response on freecycle, in fact the only one in a year, and got barrels and so on.
We have country wines on the go and kit wines too and very good value they are too. We also have a device for making "essential oils" LOL
Just spent the afternoon decanting country wines and can report some serious successes. The parsnip is looking good, (for look read sip) and the dandelion is promising.
FWIW we have found that having some half gallon demijohns is incredibly handy. Slurp some cloudy cider and you have a free dj.
Bulk your wine in bladders from the HB shop. Our five litre ones cost just under £8 and have had some four or five lots in them and are fit for at least the same again.
Setting up is costly there is no argument here as we have spent a fair bit on it but are now reaping the benefits which is kind to the pocket as well as the taste buds. We are finding that the wine kits are so good now (talking GOOD quality ones at some £45) the wine is pretty much drinkable instantly though a second clearing makes a fair difference.
PH