Operation Vinegar Halted
It seems, readers and drinkers, that there are some things in life that I am not destined to do. One is grow basil—I had yet another plant die on me. The other is make vinegar. After a smattering of attempts last year, I thought this time would surely work. BK even bought me a fancy French oak barrel. Well, I don’t know what it is, but when I finally got around to adding the ingredients [1 part culture, 1 part water, 3 parts wine], all seemed well. I got a strip of cheesecloth to cover the opening, allowing air in but not insects. Then I realized the barrel was leaking from the bottom and had to quickly pour its contents into a glass baking dish.
So here’s the thing. When I prepped the barrel over a month ago, it didn’t leak like that…just a wee bit when I first added the water. BK thought I might have waited too long in between and called our friend, the cellar rat, who thought everything would be okay once it sealed again. I, however, am not so certain. This morning I found a lot of water pooled up on the counter, resulting in a string of curses.
I guess one of us will be calling The Oak Barrel….
Image source: Farley Walker
Aww, that sucks
I hate when stuff you thought you’d planned against pop up anyway. Will you be able to continue anyway?
I am already on my second basil plant this season! The first one I planted on my terrace died after a couple of days so about 10 days ago I planted another one, figuring maybe it was just a little too cold and now it will be warmer? Who knows? But, last year everything but the basil thrived, so I am not optimistic.
Heather,
I think it finally stopped leaking. Will give another go on my next day off.
Susan,
That’s me, too. Everything is fine but that darn basil. And it’s my favorite, so I can’t give up!
hahaha!!! sorry to laugh at your misfortune, but it Does seem the fates are against your herbs and vinegar. are you really going to give up?
Actually, as you already read, the vinegar is back on track. And –SO FAR– this latest basil plant is doing well. (knock on wood)