For wine enthusiasts, the idea of having wine on tap may seem unconventional, but it can actually offer a range of benefits. Enter the world of wine kegerators, a system that allows you to dispense both beer and sparkling wine effortlessly. In this article, we will explore why wine kegerators are gaining popularity and how they can enhance your wine-drinking experience.
One of the key advantages of using a wine kegerator is the ability to preserve the integrity of the wine's flavor. Traditional dispensing methods, such as using chromed brass or lower quality stainless steel fittings, can introduce a metallic taste to the wine. However, with a split system or double tap kegerator, you can ensure that your wine remains free from any unwanted flavors.
Another advantage of kegging wine is the ability to enjoy a single glass without having to open a whole bottle. This is especially useful when you want to savor a special vintage or try different wines without committing to an entire bottle. With a wine kegerator, you can pour just the amount you desire, preserving the rest of the wine for later enjoyment.
Furthermore, wine kegerators can also serve as convenient storage vessels for wine. For example, Cornelius kegs can be used as holding tanks for wine that is reserved for topping up barrels or other fermenters. This allows winemakers to have a readily available supply of wine on hand for various purposes.
Now, let's talk about the shelf life of wine kegs. Still wines, when opened, typically have a shelf life of about four weeks. Sparkling wines, on the other hand, have a shorter shelf life of approximately two weeks. However, it's important to note that the shelf life can be extended with proper storage conditions, especially if the kegs are chilled. When unopened and stored correctly, wine kegs can last up to 12 months.
When it comes to wine keg sizes and volume, they are similar to beer kegs. There are two main types of kegs used for wine – industry-grade Sanke kegs, commonly used by breweries, and Corny (Cornelius) kegs, which are favored by home winemakers. These kegs come in various sizes, depending on your needs. Here is a table outlining the most commonly used wine keg sizes:
– 5-gallon keg: Holds approximately 25 bottles of wine (750ml each)
– 2.5-gallon keg: Holds approximately 12 bottles of wine (750ml each)
– 1.5-gallon keg: Holds approximately 7 bottles of wine (750ml each)
Wine kegerators offer a convenient and flavorful way to enjoy your favorite wines. They allow for precise pouring, preservation of flavor, and easy storage. Whether you're a wine enthusiast looking to expand your tasting options or a winemaker seeking efficient storage solutions, a wine kegerator can be a valuable addition to your collection. Cheers to a new way of experiencing wine!
Can You Put Wine In A Kegerator?
It is possible to put wine in a kegerator. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind before doing so.
1. Temperature Control: Wine is typically stored and served at a different temperature than beer. While beer is usually served chilled, wine is best enjoyed at a slightly higher temperature. Therefore, you will need to ensure that your kegerator has the capability to maintain the desired temperature for wine storage.
2. Carbonation: Wine is not carbonated like beer, so you won't need the same equipment for carbonation. Instead, you will need to use a different type of keg specifically designed for still wines. These kegs typically have a different valve system to accommodate the absence of carbonation.
3. Dispensing Equipment: Wine can pick up flavors from certain materials, such as chromed brass or lower quality stainless steel fittings. To avoid any metallic flavors in your wine, it is recommended to use split systems or double tap kegerators that have separate lines and fittings for beer and wine. This way, you can ensure that the wine is dispensed through appropriate, wine-friendly materials.
4. Cleaning and Maintenance: Wine can leave residue and sediment behind, which may require more thorough cleaning of your kegerator. It is important to regularly clean and maintain your kegerator to prevent any cross-contamination between different beverages.
While it is possible to put wine in a kegerator, it is important to consider temperature control, use the appropriate keg for still wine, ensure proper dispensing equipment, and maintain cleanliness to avoid any unwanted flavors or cross-contamination.
How Long Does Wine Last In A Kegerator?
The shelf life of wine in a kegerator can vary depending on the type of wine and the storage conditions. Generally, still wines can last for about 4 weeks from the time the keg is opened, while sparkling wines have a slightly shorter shelf life of approximately 2 weeks from opening.
However, it is important to note that the shelf life can be extended if the keg is stored in optimal conditions, particularly if it is chilled. Keeping the kegerator at a consistently cool temperature can help preserve the quality and freshness of the wine for a longer period.
Here are a few key points to consider regarding the shelf life of wine in a kegerator:
1. Still wines typically last for about 4 weeks from the time the keg is opened. This duration can vary depending on factors such as the specific wine variety and the quality of the keg itself.
2. Sparkling wines, including Champagne and Prosecco, generally have a shorter shelf life in a kegerator. They can last for approximately 2 weeks from the time the keg is opened. It is important to consume sparkling wines within this timeframe to ensure the carbonation and effervescence are preserved.
3. The shelf life of wine in a kegerator can be extended if the keg is stored in optimal conditions. Keeping the kegerator chilled at a temperature between 40-50 degrees Fahrenheit (4-10 degrees Celsius) can help slow down the oxidation process and maintain the wine's freshness for a longer period.
4. Unopened wine kegs, when stored correctly, can last up to 12 months. It is important to keep the kegs in a cool and dark environment to prevent heat and light exposure, which can degrade the quality of the wine over time.
The shelf life of wine in a kegerator varies depending on the type of wine and the storage conditions. Still wines can last for about 4 weeks, while sparkling wines have a shorter shelf life of approximately 2 weeks. Chilling the kegerator and storing unopened kegs correctly can help extend the shelf life of the wine.
Conclusion
Using a kegerator to dispense wine offers numerous advantages. By using split systems or double tap kegerators, you can conveniently dispense both beer and sparkling wine without any flavor contamination. This is especially important as wine can pick up a metallic taste from certain fittings.
Furthermore, storing wine in kegs allows for easy pouring of single glasses without the need to open a whole bottle. This is not only convenient for personal enjoyment but also for social gatherings, as you can easily fill a bottle to take to a friend's house. Additionally, Cornelius kegs can be utilized as holding tanks for wine reserved for topping up barrels or other fermenters.
When it comes to shelf life, still wines can last up to 4 weeks from opening, while sparkling wines have a shelf life of around 2 weeks from opening. However, it is important to note that the better the conditions, particularly if the kegs are chilled, the longer the shelf life can be extended. Unopened and properly stored kegs can last up to 12 months.
In terms of wine keg sizes, they are generally the same as beer keg sizes. The two main types of kegs used are industry-grade Sanke kegs, mostly used by breweries, and Corny (Cornelius) kegs, which are more popular among home winemakers.
Using wine kegs in a kegerator offers a convenient and efficient way to store and dispense wine. With the ability to control the pouring of individual glasses, as well as the flexibility to store wine for longer periods, wine kegs are a great option for wine enthusiasts and professionals alike.
