11-09-2012, 07:50 AM
I've been using EZ caps since a friend gave me a set and a yeast vial as a gift. She told me to only get organic, all natural, or not from concentrate juices. My first batches were mixes of cranberry, tart cherry, apple, and pomegranate juices, and they turned out well. The only problem I had was the sugar level. Don't add too much trying to get a high proof or to compensate for the tart flavor of cranberry juice, or you'll get alcoholic syrup (which isn't that bad, I liked it as did my very drunk compatriots!). Since then I started to make simple syrup (1 part hot water & 1 part sugar by volume), and add about 2 tbs. of it per day after the first week, if you do this it's easier to get higher proofs and a better sweetness balance. I expect to hit that 17% upper limit much more regularly from now on! The tart flavors and acidity of the cranberry pairs well with other juices in my opinion, and my tart flavored wines get rave reviews from friends.