The Ocean Spray bottle specifically mentions no preservatives, artificial flavors or artificial colors. The Kroger doesn't but I also don't see anything on the label that's significantly different from the Ocean Spray other than corn syrup. They both have "natural flavors" added, which could mean anything but other than that there isn't anything in the Kroger label that hints of added chemicals. That's what's so annoying about it.
I don't really have the room to make or store 5 gallons of wine at a time plus I couldn't drink it fast enough. The reason I started to make my own is because I wanted 1 glass per night before bedtime and the least expensive commercial wine I could find came in a 5 liter box for around $15, so it was around $15/month versus less than $5 if I make it myself. If I have a gallon in the fridge and a gallon being made that should keep me stocked up quite nicely.
/johnny
I brew like you and here’s some advice:
The EC1118 is a great and cheap yeast but it leaves very nasty and loose lees (the stuff at the bottom).
You have to be very careful not to disturb the lees- especially when pouring- and you’ll end up throwing the last 2 cups or more away.
Munton’s ale yeast is only 20 cents more for a packet.
It’s lees are not offensive and are easier to keep out of your glass. I switched to Munton’s for my small batches.
Pour a cup of juice out, add up to a cup of sugar and shake well. The air is good for the yeast. Then add a big half-teaspoon of yeast per gallon.
Put in a cool place where it will be undisturbed and drink after 10 to 14 (or more) days. It just gets stronger, less fizzy and less sweet the longer you wait.
In warm weather I tape the loose caps on the bottles with cheap paper packing tape to keep the bugs out.
If you are only looking for inexpensive vino go to the dreaded Walmart they have a lot of choices at $2.97 per bottle save the bottles to put your own in eventually. They also have 3l boxes for $9.95. The local winemaking store here will sell you a kit and make your 5 gallon batch for you for less than $100 they do make you save up 30 bottles to put it in when you are done but they walk you through the whole process find one near you and put it on your if you want to give me a present list.