Hi! Hazel, Shirl and friends. I have read through the whole thread as I have helped in this area before but it looks like you are there at the end of the thread.
I will try to find my previous post which relates to this discussion.
I don't wish to be adverserial but Flummery it depends on your definition of wine.
I realise that most continental wine is made from the 'vine' ( maybe the connection ??) but if you consider beer/lager as 4-7% alchohol, and wines as 10-14% then you get into dark country. What about Barley wines 8-10%.
If I make a wine from blackberries have I made a wine ?
If I make wine from gooseberries have I made a wine ?
Damsons, apples or pears, what have I made?
One thing I have made is a really nice drink which is about 10-14% alchohol.
I love country wines, I celebrate country wines. So carry on, some will not brew out as you want, but then save these to mix with others.
Many of the 'best' wineries mix different years produce to give a taste that is acceptable.
Have fun.
