Discover the art and science of winemaking in this engaging hands-on workshop! Together, we’ll explore Cincinnati’s rich winemaking history, learn about native grape varieties and craft personalized wine recipes to ferment at home. You’ll participate in a guided tasting of four different wines to sharpen your palate and gather inspiration for your creations. (An NA option will also be available.) We’ll introduce basic chemistry concepts related to wine, such as fermentation and balancing acidity, explained in simple, accessible terms for beginners.
By the end of the event, you’ll feel confident, inspired and ready to embark on your homemade wine adventure! You'll even head home with a pint of ingredients necessary for at home fermentation so you can put your new knowledge into action.
No experience is necessary, and all materials will be provided, with optional supplies available for purchase afterward. Participants must be 21+.
Instructor: Luis Aguilar, Terrariums with a Twist
Cost: $50
Meet Your Instructor: Originally from Houston, Texas, Luis Aguilar of Terrariums with a Twist brings a unique blend of expertise and enthusiasm to winemaking education. After moving to Cincinnati four years ago, Luis began working at a local winery, where he honed his skills in crafting & rectifying wines. His role involved hands-on lab work, carefully tasting and adjusting elements to ensure the best balance and meet the specifications of each product.
With over a decade of experience as a wine enthusiast and a solid academic foundation in Environmental Biology from the University of Houston-Downtown, Luis is deeply passionate about the art and science of fermentation. His studies provided a strong understanding of the biological and chemical processes that contribute to winemaking, blending his love for plants, nature, and the craft of creating with exceptional taste.
In January 2023, Luis launched his own business offering terrarium-making workshops at local non-profits and bars, combining his passion for plants and fermentation. Now, he expands this expertise by hosting homemade wine-making workshops, teaching others what he has learned, and inspiring a deeper appreciation for plants.
Luis believes that winemaking is a craft anyone can embrace and master, regardless of experience. His goal is to make the world of wines and spirits more approachable, empowering participants to embrace their inner winemaker. Luis invites you to join him on a journey that celebrates both the flavors and the fascinating science behind winemaking. Give it a try: Wine not?