Let's start with the bad. The kit was $174.99 plus tax. Other sites have similar wines cheaper, but at least my shipping was free. Then when I received my order there were no instructions. Just a QR code that sent you to a website with multiple instructions, but none for my wine specifically - minus one star. Fortunately, this isn't my first rodeo, so I figured it out. Then there were no labels. Really $175 and no labels??? Minus one star.

The good: I made the wine with no idea what the OG was supposed to be or how long is was supposed to ferment... again, no instructions. However, with an OG of 1.100 and a FG of 1.044 (measured after adding the finishing blend), after a 19 day primary and a 42 day stabilizing and clearing the ABV came out to 7.61, about right for a dessert wine. The wine has a nice Chocolate aroma and the flavor is almost a cross between a hint of cherry/blackberry with a little more chocolate. It has a nice feel and flavor without being overly favored.

Our first taste before bottling was great. The aroma increased in the carboy. It should be even better after aging.

This kit is worth the wait. It is delicious, decadent & easy on the stomach. My absolute favorite of all time.

The fermentation is complete and clarifiers have been added. Now, we wait as it matures.

Just bottled and tasted Black Forest! It is truly THE BOMB!! Smooth, decadent, wonderful aroma! Can't wait to order another - just wish I had ordered 2 to begin with - I know this wont last long. And the instructions are super easy to follow!