On a recent, sunny lunch break in North Park, I had the pleasant surprise of finding local wineries Vesper Vineyards and Triple B Ranches on The Linkery’s drink menu. Even more astounding was the heading under which they were listed: Local Keg Wine. That’s right, draft wine!
Wine on tap is hardly a new idea; Inglenook and other wineries have been delivering wine in this manner for years. However, better wineries are adding their names to tap handles all over. Economic and eco-friendly keg wine keeps the cost and carbon footprint lower than traditional bottling, making it attractive to wineries. It is also appealing to many restaurants and bars, as it affords them the ability to offer wine in various sizes and also creates less waste. Ultimately, consumers benefit the most. They’re drinking the freshest possible wine and avoiding the likelihood of drinking an oxidized wine that’s been open for a few days.
Still, I was a bit of a skeptic, so with much trepidation I ordered the Merlot from Triple B Ranches. I’m now a true believer. Giving off notes of cherry, lavender and spice, this medium bodied, dark ruby wine is more reminiscent of a Russian River Valley Pinot Noir than what I have come to expect from a California Merlot. It is nonetheless delicious, and more deserving to be sipped and swirled than many wines you might find in a bottle at your local grocer. The Merlot was a perfect pairing for The Linkery’s smoked rabbit appetizer, and would also pair nicely with a myriad of cheeses and meats. Best bets are smoked meats, bleu cheeses and poultry. Even salmon or trout can make this Merlot sing.