Writer: Kay Ledbetter, 806-677-5608, skledbetter@ag.tamu.edu
Contact: David Rodriguez, 210-467-6575, dhrodriguez@ag.tamu.edu
HELOTES – The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service’s Backyard Basics series program will present “The Basics of Homemade Wine” from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. May 29 at the Gardens at Old Town Helotes, 15060 Antonio Drive in Helotes.
“For years, AgriLife Extension horticulturists have taught home gardeners the basic principles of selecting, planting, growing and harvesting fruit crops,” said David Rodriguez, AgriLife Extension horticulture agent for Bexar County and program coordinator, San Antonio.
“So, this training blends in very well on what to do with some of the extra fruit that you harvest,” Rodriguez said. “It’s going to be a fun and practical training on home winemaking.”
He said the intended audience is backyard gardeners, small-scale producers and hobbyist winemakers.
Dr. Larry A. Stein, AgriLife Extension horticulturist in Uvalde, and Dr. Justin Scheiner, AgriLife Extension viticulturist in College Station, will be presenting the history of winemaking, how to grow grapes and other winemaking fruit, steps and equipment for starting and a wine-making demonstration.
Phillip Manea, owner of Wine 101 Helotes, will explain how to make wine selections and will be offering wine sampling along with comparisons from his business.
The deadline to register is May 26. To RSVP, contact Angel Torres at 210-467-6575 or matorres@ag.tamu.edu.
The registration fee of $40 per person includes lunch. Those planning to attend should make checks payable to Bexar County Master Gardeners and mail to 3355 Cherry Ridge, Suite 212, San Antonio, Texas 78230.
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