As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to work with various types of beverages, including serving sparkling wine on tap. It is a unique and convenient way to serve this type of wine, but it does require some specific considerations to ensure the best quality and experience for your customers.
First and foremost, it's important to note that serving sparkling wine on tap is different from serving still wine. With still wine, the pressure is not as much of an issue since there is no carbonation involved. However, when it comes to sparkling wine, the pressure becomes a crucial factor in maintaining the effervescence and overall quality.
To serve sparkling wine on tap, you will need a system that can handle higher pressure than what is typically used for still wine. The recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) range for sparkling wine is between 70 and 90. This higher pressure is necessary to ensure that the wine retains its bubbles and effervescence throughout the service.
Before setting up your tap system for sparkling wine, it is crucial to ensure that your equipment is properly calibrated to handle the higher pressure. This includes checking the pressure gauges, regulators, and any other components that may be involved in the system. It's always a good idea to have a professional technician perform these checks to ensure everything is in proper working order.
Once your tap system is properly calibrated, it's time to set the pressure for serving sparkling wine. Start by setting the pressure to the lower end of the recommended range, around 70 PSI. This will create a gentle flow of wine with a moderate level of effervescence. If you find that the bubbles are too weak or the wine lacks liveliness, you can gradually increase the pressure to find the desired level of carbonation.
It's also important to consider the temperature at which you serve sparkling wine on tap. Just like with still wine, temperature plays a significant role in the overall taste and experience. Sparkling wine is generally served chilled, but not overly cold, as extreme temperatures can affect the flavor and effervescence. Aim for a temperature between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit (4-10 degrees Celsius) to maintain the optimal balance of flavors and bubbles.
When it comes to serving sparkling wine on tap, it's important to consider the preservation of the wine as well. Unlike bottles, where the wine can be sealed and preserved after opening, tap systems expose the wine to oxygen. This can lead to the wine losing its freshness and effervescence over time. To minimize this, it's crucial to use a tap system that has proper sealing mechanisms and to monitor the wine's quality closely.
Serving sparkling wine on tap requires a tap system that can handle higher pressure to maintain the effervescence and quality of the wine. Proper calibration of the equipment, setting the right pressure, and serving the wine at the optimal temperature are key factors in ensuring a delightful sparkling wine experience for your customers.