Julie -
Sorry I forgot to post the link to the wine equipment supplier I use.....
Grapestompers. If you click on "Specials" and then select "Monthly Specials", you'll find starter equipment kits, including a small selection of included concentrate kit options, to get you going. If you decide to go ahead and order one of these, let me know, I'll recommend a couple of modifications to the spec'd kit that will be well worth your while. Also note that you can substitute any wine concentrate kit they carry for the options they offer with the starter kit....You'll get a credit you can apply toward the more expensive concentrate kits.
Poke around the website a bit, you'll find a tutorial and other useful info.
Their prices are among the best, customer service can't be beat, and I also like their shipping charge policy, even though I almost always just dive the hour and a half it takes to get up there when I need supplies....It's a beautiful drive. They only charge what it actually costs. Concentrate kits are heavy...to over 40lbs, so most places charge very high shipping and handling. Grapestompers charges actual shipping only.
Before you order from Grapestompers, you might want to check around your local area...Do a search on wine and/or beer supplies. You may be able to save some money by avoiding shipping charges.
The best alternative (would be great for long weekend or short vacation), IMHO, would be to head down this way. The supplier also has a
small winery where he features wines from the top of the line kits he carries. "Crazy Tom", the owner, is a retired pharmacist who turned his hobby into a retirement business, and he is a hoot. There's a
B&B right there on site....$100.00 a night, if I remember correctly...The Blue Ridge Mountains are beautiful and Grapestompers is only about 5 miles off the the Blue Ridge Parkway. Fall colors will peak (Nothing compares to Vermont in the fall, but this isn't bad.) at that elevation about mid-October.
Come down with an empty car...You'll fill up your trunk and most of the back seat with supplies.