You can absolutely use a kegerator for wine! In fact, wine on tap has become increasingly popular in the restaurant industry due to its many benefits. It allows for better preservation of the wine, reduces waste, and offers a more sustainable and cost-effective option compared to traditional bottled wine service.
To use a kegerator for wine, you will need a few key components:
1. Kegerator: A kegerator is essentially a refrigerator designed to hold and dispense kegs. It typically features a temperature control system and taps for serving the wine. You can purchase a kegerator specifically designed for wine, or you can convert a beer kegerator by thoroughly cleaning and sanitizing it before use.
2. Draft Line: A draft line is the tubing system that connects the wine keg in the kegerator to the tap. It allows the wine to flow from the keg to the tap for serving. It's essential to use food-grade tubing that is suitable for wine to maintain the quality and integrity of the wine.
3. Gas: Wine on tap typically uses a gas system to pressurize the keg and push the wine through the draft line. Nitrogen or argon gas is commonly used as it helps preserve the freshness and prevent oxidation of the wine. The gas is stored in a separate gas cylinder and connected to the keg through a regulator.
4. Coupler: The coupler is the device that connects the gas line and the draft line to the wine keg. Different types of couplers are available depending on the brand or style of keg you are using. It's important to ensure you have the correct coupler for your specific keg to ensure a proper seal and smooth dispensing.
Here is a step-by-step guide to getting your wine on tap:
1. Choose the Wine: Select the wine you want to serve on tap. It's important to consider the wine's quality, flavor profile, and how well it will hold up in a keg system. Many wineries now offer wines specifically designed for kegging, which are often more durable and resistant to oxidation.
2. Prepare the Kegerator: Clean and sanitize your kegerator thoroughly before use. Remove any existing beer lines and taps, and clean all surfaces to ensure no residual flavors or contaminants remain. Adjust the temperature to the appropriate level for serving wine, which is typically slightly cooler than room temperature.
3. Set Up the Draft Line: Connect the draft line to the tap on the front of the kegerator. Ensure all connections are secure and tight. Run the draft line inside the kegerator and attach it to the coupler.
4. Connect the Gas: Attach the gas line to the regulator and the gas cylinder. Adjust the pressure on the regulator to the recommended level for wine, typically around 12-15 psi. Connect the gas line to the coupler on the keg.
5. Tap the Keg: Insert the coupler into the keg and twist it until it locks into place. This will puncture the keg and allow the wine to flow. Ensure a proper seal is formed between the coupler and the keg to prevent any gas or wine leakage.
6. Test the System: Open the tap and pour a small amount of wine to test the system. Check for any leaks or issues with the flow. Adjust the gas pressure if necessary to achieve the desired pour rate and carbonation level.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once the system is properly set up and tested, you are ready to serve wine on tap! Ensure the glasses or wine bottles are clean before filling. Pull the tap handle to pour the desired amount of wine, and release it to stop the flow. Serve the wine to your customers and enjoy the benefits of a sustainable and efficient wine service.
Using a kegerator for wine offers several advantages, such as reducing packaging waste, eliminating the need for corks or screw caps, and extending the shelf life of the wine. It also allows for better control over serving temperature and carbonation levels, ensuring a consistent and high-quality wine experience for your customers.
In my experience as a sommelier and brewer, wine on tap has been well-received by customers, especially those who appreciate the environmental and cost-saving aspects. It also provides an opportunity to showcase a wider variety of wines by the glass, allowing customers to explore and discover new flavors without committing to a full bottle.
Using a kegerator for wine is a practical and sustainable addition to any restaurant or bar service. It offers convenience, freshness, and cost-effectiveness while reducing waste and enhancing the overall wine experience for both you and your customers.