In this fun course you will create your own novel balloon air lock for your fermenter and start the simple and quick process of turning red grape juice into sparkling shiraz for about $2 per litre. You will be provided extensive notes, all required equipment, yummy tastings AND you will take home 2 litres of started sparkling shiraz. No prior brewing experience is necessary. 18+ yrs of age only.

Sparkling Shiraz – Homebrewed

Course Description

Discover how to turn humble red grape juice into your very own sparkling shiraz – quickly, affordably, and with a touch of DIY flair. 

In this hands-on course, you'll learn how to make a bubbly, flavourful version of this classic Aussie favourite for just $2 per litre. 

You'll construct a simple air lock, kick off fermentation, and start a two-litre batch to take home with you. 

With extensive notes, guided tastings, and all equipment provided, this course is designed for curious beginners – no prior brewing experience required. 

Just bring your enthusiasm!

Please do not drink and drive – everyone metabolises alcohol differently, and individual tolerance levels can vary. 

Please note that participants must be aged 18 or over to attend this course.

Course Structure

We’ll start with a taste of history – learning what makes sparkling shiraz unique – and then dive into the basics of fermentation. 

You’ll get step-by-step guidance on sanitising your gear, preparing your base wine, and building your own easy air lock. 

We'll explain how natural bubbles are created through a second fermentation, and explore optional upgrades like oak ageing, spice additions, and fruit infusions. 

You'll also learn bottling techniques, carbonation methods, and the traditional steps like riddling and disgorging. 

Tasting sessions and score sheets will help you evaluate flavour and balance, while tips on pairing with food will ensure you get the most out of your sparkling creation.

Course Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Understand the steps involved in making sparkling shiraz from base wine to bubbles
• Clean and sterilise equipment properly to avoid spoilage
• Create a basic fermenter using a DIY air lock
• Start and monitor primary fermentation of a red grape base
• Initiate secondary fermentation to naturally carbonate the wine
• Use traditional and alternative carbonation methods
• Adjust and experiment with sugars, yeast types, and flavour additions
• Troubleshoot common fermentation issues such as stuck fermentation or oxidation
• Evaluate wine using aroma, taste, and mouthfeel, and record recipe outcomes
• Recommend suitable food pairings and identify equipment needs for ongoing sparkling winemaking.

Your Tutor is Dennis Keillor

Dennis Keillor BAppSci (Physics), DipEd has been teaching at WEA since 2007. 

As a ‘Cycologist’ Dennis has been a successful financial market forecaster, trader and educator since 1997.

As a ‘Fizzacist’ Dennis has been producing homemade brew since Adam was a boy!