Fruit Wine Frequently Asked Questions

What is fortified wine?

A fortified wine is a dessert wine that is partially fermented (to about 5%) and then alcohol is added. This stops the fermentation and preserves the strong aromatic and fruit characteristics of the wine. It also keeps the wine on the sweet side and makes a wonderful wine to serve after dinner or to drink as an aperitif.

At what temperature should fruit wine be served?

Fruit wines should be served cool, similar to a white grape wine. The ideal serving temperature would be between 7ºC and 9ºC. This helps to bring out the fresh fruit qualities of the wine. Keep them refrigerated.

How is fruit wine made?

Fruit wines are made from a large variety of different fruits into a variety of wine styles. At Field Stone Fruit Wines, the fruit wines are made from 100% natural fruits grown in Alberta.

Typically, fruit wines are made from the crushed fruit. Flavours and aroma are extracted through special maceration and enzyme extraction, then the wine is adjusted to the right sweetness and acid level and naturally fermented with specific yeast strains to accentuate the true expression of the fruit.

How long do fruit wines last once opened?

Similar to regular grape wines, our fruit wines will last about three to four days once opened. Keep them refrigerated to increase that time. Fortified wines, due to their higher alcohol content, will last several weeks after opening if kept in your fridge. But they are so delicious, we’d be surprised if they lasted that long!

What is biological farming?

The six principles of biological farming in use at Bumbleberry Orchards:

1. Test and balance the soil.
2. Use fertilizers which are life-promoting and non-harmful.
3. Use herbicides in minimum amounts and only when absolutely necessary; do not use pesticides or fungicides.
4. Use organic matter to improve soil structure.
5. Use tillage to control weeds, as well as for aeration and drainage of the soil.
6. Feed the soil life-giving amendments of bacteria and nutrients.