Sixty Vines – Ever try Wine from a Keg?
“Any sufficiently advanced technology is equivalent to magic” – Arthur C. Clarke
Flat wine. The dreaded two words that no wine lover or sommelier wants to hear. Once a bottle of wine is opened, oxidization starts and the characteristics that make a wine complex and lively evaporate. Even some of the best re-corking technology isn’t enough to stop the eventual loss of smell and flavor that make each bottle of wine unique.
Technology comes to the rescue! Sixty Vines restaurant in Plano, TX has partnered with wineries to present wines that are stored in compression controlled kegs for you to enjoy by the glass. Wine goes straight from the aging barrels and tanks to pressure controlled kegs. The wine is never exposed to air and retains the characteristics of a freshly opened bottle. This eliminates a bad experience when a wine lover gets a glass of wine that has undergone oxidization. Restauranteurs can sell higher valued wine without worrying about losing profits through the evaporation that takes place once the cork is removed. Not only can wine lovers enjoy exclusive wines by the glass, the kegs are reusable and eco-friendly. The number of wines offered on tap at Sixty Vines is expansive with multiple offerings for everyone to enjoy.
Sixty Vines in Plano has partnered with winemaker Bill Knuttel to create Vine Huggers, a premium private label selection of varietals. I selected three Vine Hugger wines to enjoy as a flight. Along with the ability to sample wines on tap, Sixty Vines offers 2.5, 5, and 8 ounce servings of wine. If you love a wide variety of wines like I do, you can sample four different varietals during an evening and only have consumed one glass of wine!
I selected offerings from the private label Vine Huggers – ‘Au Naturel’ Chardonnay, ‘Bad Dog Blend’ Red Blend, and ‘Old Vine’ Zinfandel. The ‘Au Naturel’ Chardonnay is a smooth varietal featuring fruit and pastry aromas. Vanilla and stone fruits with light acidity provide exceptional balance in a white wine. I am a big fan of the traditional rich California Chardonnay. Knuttel’s mastery of the wine creates a crisp, lighter version that keeps the rich taste of the varietal that I prefer. The “Bad Dog Blend’ is a masterful creation of Malbec and Petit Verdot. Blueberry and coffee notes blend well with a smoothness in the tannins and black cherry finish. The ‘Old Vine’ Zinfandel is an original California favorite. Bold flavors of berry and plum are paired with floral notes.
Sixty Vines is a vibrant, bright space that pairs food, wine, and craft beers in an engaging setting. Make reservations and don’t be afraid to bring a large group with you. The table setup encourages lively conversation. Be prepared for exceptional experience. Try a flight of keg housed wine. You will become a regular!
Remember to drink what it is that makes you truly happy and always think positively!
Drink Responsibly!
#wbc2017 @SixtyVines