As an expert sommelier and brewer, I am often asked about the process of making grape juice and whether or not it is necessary to add sugar. The answer to this question largely depends on the type of grape you are using and your personal preference for sweetness.
If you are using ripe concord grapes, you will likely find that the natural sugars in the grapes are more than enough to create a sweet and flavorful juice. Concord grapes are known for their intense sweetness, and their juice is often used to make grape jelly and other sweet treats. In this case, there is no need to add any additional sugar to the juice.
However, if you are using a grape variety that is more tart or less sweet, you may find that adding sugar is necessary to achieve the desired level of sweetness. In this case, I would recommend tasting the juice before adding any sugar. This will give you a sense of how sweet or tart the juice is on its own. From there, you can determine how much sugar, if any, you would like to add.
When adding sugar to grape juice, it is best to do so gradually and to taste the juice as you go. This will allow you to control the level of sweetness and avoid adding too much sugar. I recommend starting with a small amount of sugar, perhaps a tablespoon or two, and then tasting the juice. If it is still too tart for your liking, you can add more sugar, again tasting as you go. Remember, it is easier to add sugar than to remove it, so it is best to err on the side of caution and add a little at a time.
In terms of the type of sugar to use, you have a few options. White granulated sugar is the most common choice and works well in most cases. However, you can also experiment with other types of sugar, such as brown sugar or honey, to add a different flavor profile to the juice. Again, I recommend starting with a small amount and tasting as you go to ensure you achieve the desired sweetness.
The decision to add sugar to grape juice is a personal one and depends on the type of grape you are using and your own taste preferences. If you are using ripe concord grapes, no added sugar is necessary as the juice is naturally sweet. However, if you are using a more tart grape, you may find it beneficial to add sugar to achieve the desired level of sweetness. Remember to taste the juice as you go and add sugar gradually to avoid over-sweetening. Happy juicing!