Golden Hijaz Date Wine

Unleash the rich, sweet flavors of fresh dates in this invigorating Golden Date Elixir. With the vibrant essence of citrus and the natural sweetness of apples, bananas, or grapes, this homemade beverage is perfect for warm gatherings or casual sipping. Fortified with yeast and nutrients, it transforms into a unique, fruity drink that's bound to captivate your senses and refresh your spirit.
ingredients
- 4 lbs fresh dates (pitted)
- Juice and rind of 1 lemon
- Juice and rind of 1 orange
- 2 to 4 lbs of apples, bananas, or grapes (or a mix)
- 2 Campden tablets
- 5 cups white or brown sugar
- 1 tsp yeast nutrient
- 1 packet wine yeast
- 4 gallons of non-chlorinated water
steps
- 1.
Begin by washing and pitting the fresh dates, ensuring they are clean.
- 2.
In a large pot, combine 4 gallons of non-chlorinated water with the pitted dates.
- 3.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- 4.
While simmering, zest and juice the lemon and orange, adding both to the pot.
- 5.
If using additional fruit (apples, bananas, or grapes), chop them into small pieces and add them to the pot.
- 6.
Once the mixture has cooled to room temperature, crush 2 Campden tablets and add them to the pot to sterilize.
- 7.
Stir in the sugar until fully dissolved, then mix in the yeast nutrient.
- 8.
Once the mixture reaches 70°F, sprinkle the packet of wine yeast on top and gently stir to combine.
- 9.
Transfer the mixture to a fermentation vessel, seal with an airlock, and let it ferment for 1-2 weeks, monitoring daily.
- 10.
When fermentation is complete, siphon the elixir into clean bottles, then refrigerate or store in a cool, dark space.