Q:

Can you make the same type of wines that I can buy at the L.C.B.O.?

A:

Naturally we cannot make the same brands, however we can make the same types. For example, the popular Yellow Label is an Australian Cabernet Sauvignon from South Australia. We carry high quality wine juice-concentrate kits of Cabernet Sauvignon also imported from South Australia that make a very comparable wine.

Q:

Do you make beer at Somerset?

A:

NO. We specialize in wine only, more specifically we carry only the best of class products available at each price point. We research and test all new wine making kits that we add to our lines so that we can give you an honest appraisal of the wines style and character.

Q:

Is my wine going to taste like it came from a kit?

A:

Not if you start with high quality ingredients, use purified water, practice full and timely winery procedures in a sterile environment. Aging these wines after bottling will allow them to fully develop.

Q:

What do you have to do to get started?

A:

Simply drop in to either store and with our assistance choose a wine to make. Purchase the kit and then start your wine by adding two or three simple ingredients and pitching the yeast. We make it just that easy with our knowledgeable advice and expert assistance. Click here for a virtual tour of the whole process!

Q:

What if something goes wrong with the wine after we make it?

A:

We guarantee your satisfaction and will consider it a favour if you inform us of any disappointment with your wine. We’ll make it right!

Q:

What is included in the price?

A:

Our posted on premise prices include absolutely everything except labels and bottles.

Q:

What is the easiest way to clean our bottles?

A:

After emptying the bottle simply rinse it out with cold water, no other cleaners are necessary, and store it upside down so that no mold or bacteria may develop. To remove the labels, soak the bottle in a sink for around 5 to 10 minutes and the labels should come right off. If trying to remove commercial labels the soaking period may need to be longer, i.e. overnight.

Q:

Why can’t I taste a sample to know the quality of the type of wine I might make?

A:

The government foregoes the taxes for all wines being made on premise because they are all owned by the customers, not us. We cannot serve your wine, in fact we cannot serve any wines without being licensed (and fully taxed) to do so. Your best guarantee for good taste and quality is a referral from a friend or a comprehensive tour of a few wine making facilities, after which you will probably be confident to pick one.

Q:

Why do you rarely have a sale?

A:

When we opened our first winery four years ago, we gambled that people would recognize good value – everyday! We were right. At Somerset you never have to worry about missing the sale price or buying something mostly because it is on sale. You can always choose what you like knowing it is always well priced. We do however, through our newsletter, offer frequent draws for great prizes as well as from time to time feature gift-with-purchase promotions.

Q:

Why is there such a tax savings?

A:

Commercial wines, like all spirits are very heavily taxed. When you purchase a wine making kit, you are essentially purchasing a food product, which of course is totally non-taxable. Because you pitch the yeast, add a few other ingredients and return to bottle, the government sees you as the wine maker and us as the facility that charged you a fee to allow you to make your wine on our premises.