Very nice, Mike! I bottled mine about 2 months ago and I, too, was pleased with the results. It is one year old now but still very "green." I plan to try a bottle in six months. Your labels, as usual, are great.
I have not made this kit. However, I made the VN Barolo last year and it is great and it was only a 10L kit. I have read many comments on this board regarding the Renaissance kits and all have been positive. You are right, the price is great.
By the way, MM calls this kit "Outback Shiraz." The juice comes from America. I have MM's Amarone and the juice comes from Italy. Why doesn't this juice come from Australia? Maybe they were thinking "outback" of someone's house in America.
I think the volcano issue can be mitigated by not racking until your SG is closer to 1.000. I also think that by letting it stay in the primary longer, the longer the yeast has to work on that grape pack.
Hello cindyjo. I have the same limited edition sitting on deck right now. I have done grape packs and raisins in two ways, I have let them free float and I have used a painter's bag. I believe I prefer a painter's bag. It just simplifies the process and I can't tell the difference in the wine...