Online - April 19, 2006

Grapes of Rad

WinePod Winemaker

Remember when drinks were about grape Kool-Aid? Just rip the packet, run the faucet, and mix. Followed up with the obligatory stumbling around the hood with purple teeth.

Today you’re still drinking grape juice, albeit in a slightly more sophisticated form.

Rekindle that old grape-drink-making nostalgia with the WinePod. It’s is a two-foot-tall, 100-liter tank that comes with a stand, step-by-step instructions, and software that enables you to wirelessly control temperature, fermentation, and pH levels. The nifty contraption can make any kind of wine you desire. You just choose the grapes.

Its sleek appearance could easily have guests confusing it for your latest art investment. And since it’s controlled by a computer, you can set it up in your home or office — there’s no mess.

Of course, such a genius invention has a waiting list (and a hefty price tag of $1,999 — yikes), but if you sign up today you’ll be crushing grapes come this holiday season.

And stumbling around like the good old days.

Available online at personalwinemaking.com.