Campus

Avocations: Aldo Brinkman

At first glance Aldo Brinkman’s flat looks like a pretty typical place to live until you notice the number of large glass flasks. Brinkman, a PhD candidate in physical chemistry, also happens to be an amateur wine maker.

Growing up as the child of what he calls “almost hippies”, Brinkman watched and learned from his father’s home wine production. About a year ago, he saw the old equipment and it sparked an interest. So he bought a book with recipes for wine and started his own experimentation.

Although wine is typically made of grapes,Brinkman doesn’t use any in his recipes. Instead, he uses ingredients that are either free or easy to incorporate. His first batch of wine was made from elder flowers and then elder berries that he picked. Other flavors currently in process include honey, nectarine, banana and even Earl Grey tea.

According to Brinkman, the basic recipe includes varying amounts of sugar, water, yeast and some other additives to help the yeast grow. “Basically, the yeast eats the sugar and poops out alcohol and carbon dioxide,” he said. Each batch is about 20 litres, and he currently has about 85 litres in different stages of fermentation. The process can take between months and years, depending on the desired result. Brinkman said the fastest batch of wine typically takes about six months.

In true academic style, Brinkman keeps a lab book about everything he makes. He tracks ingredients, time and processes that he tries as he is experimenting with different variables. He does have to buy a few of the necessary materials, like corks, but

Brinkman likes recycling by collecting empty wine bottles from restaurants to package his creations. He has even designed and printed his own labels.

“It has to be fun,” said Brinkman about his hobby. He said he enjoys giving bottles as gifts because it is much more unique and thoughtful than simply buying something. He also enjoys getting honest feedback about his successes and failures. “The highlight is sharing with friends. The difference in people’s opinions is fantastic.”

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