If you want to learn about Wine in Edinburgh, visit Galvin Brasserie de Luxe, perch yourself at the bar and ask for sommelier, Damien Trinckquel. I’ve no doubt all the staff will be able to teach you a thing or two about wine, but Damien is especially engaging.

Galvin Brasserie de Luxe – Wine on Tap

I was invited down to hear about Galvin Brasserie de Luxe’s new wine on tap offering. Obviously, I’d be drinking the stuff too, for research purposes.

Let me start with a disclaimer, I’m in no way a wine buff, although, I probably should be given how much research I’ve carried out.

Why on tap?

Wine served by the glass can lead to inconsistent experiences. A glass from a bottle opened at lunchtime won’t be exactly the same when another is poured later in the day, both glasses will taste good, but they won’t be the same. I’ll go out on a limb to say that I probably wouldn’t notice the difference, and would be happy with either glass, but for a restaurant like Galvin Brasserie de Luxe, consistency is key and if this can be controlled – it should be.

How does it work?

Instead of distributing by the bottle, wine is housed in stainless steel kegs. Gas pushes the wine from the keg to the tap, which is then poured into reusable plastic bottles (which look and sound exactly like glass). The wine doesn’t require sulphites (can cause headaches and facial flushing) and is protected from oxidation, which means the first and last glass will taste identical.

Other benefits of wine on tap

The bottles used when serving wine on tap are reusable, which reduces the amount of recycling that takes place. Transportation is more cost-effective and therefore better for the environment. There’s also no chance of corked wine and cork usage is reduced.

How does it taste

Great. I’d gladly order wine on tap next time I’m in Galvin Brasserie de Luxe.

I’d also happily order an entire bottle from the tap, although I could see why some people may choose not to. You’ll lose the theatre of a bottle being opened at your table and won’t get a chance to read the label and be taken in by the story of the wine (something I don’t think we’ve ever done).

Oyster Happy Hour

If you’re thinking of trying Galvin Brasserie de Luxe’s wine on tap, it’s worth noting they have a few deals. Monday to Friday at 6 – 7pm is Oyster Happy Hour, with fresh oysters available at £1 a shuck.

Steak Frites

Whilst we learned the science behind wine on tap, we tucked into a delicious steak. Cooked to perfection and another great reason to return!

For more info, please visit http://www.waldorfastoriaedinburgh.com/dining-and-bars/galvin-brasserie-de-luxe.html

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