Why should I make a yeast starter? How?

To ensure your wine gets off to a good start, take a few minutes to prepare a good yeast starter. Simply pour the dry yeast in 1/4 cup of warm water (105-110F). Let stand without stirring.

After 15 minutes, stir well to dissolve all the yeast. Add an additional 1/4 of unfermented juice and wait 15 minutes. Your yeast will begin to come alive and will be ready to add to your fermenter.