Hi everyone! :)
My name is Paul, writing from Australia. I just noticed this forum and decided to join so I hope that I can become a meaningful contributor over time!
I'm currently on my second milk wine project. I too have this book and am intrigued by this wine. Some years ago I had lengthy conversations with Leon, the author, after I bought this book. He was kind enough to send me an autographed copy, so I have a working copy and a collectable edition right now.
Leon is a great guy, very knowledgable and very helpful. We spoke a bit about Father Engel and his wine and I decided to make it the first time.
In contrast to the example mentioned, my milk wine turned out really great! I'd say, quite respectfully to anyone who has made it and it's turned out disgusting that you've picked up an infection along the way. I'm going to copy the same recipe I used the first time. I used half sugar, half honey. The result was a beautiful, honey coloured wine that got better with age. You should try it because it's different and I agree with Leon, unlike most other wine this stuff is wholesome. I think it tasted great and so did the people I gave it to, to sample.
Anyway here is the recipe I used. It's based on my talks with Leon, and of course the recipe in his book.
2 Litres of lactose free milk (Father Engel used milk powder but here in AU Lactaid enzyme is expensive so I can't buy it)
(I used UHT - or longlife - lactose free milk)
1/2 kg white sugar
1/2 kg honey
2 litres water
1 packet champagne (or sparkling wine) yeast
As Leon told me, honey is a very nice addition. You can experiment with different flower honeys to add different characteristics. I love this stuff and will be making more.
Anyway I hope this helps clarfies some things insofar that this wine is very nice and very different and it will suprise anyone you give it to when you tell them it's made using milk. If you have any questions let me know I'll be glad to help if I can.
With best regards
Paul Delphin
Tasmania, Australia