Tag: Cabernet

Corkage Fee Per Bottle

Corkage fees have become a common practice among restaurants, but many diners may not fully understand how these fees work. It is important to note that most restaurants charge a corkage fee per bottle brought in by patrons. This means that if you bring two bottles of wine to a restaurant, you will be charged double the corkage fee.

The cost of a corkage fee can vary greatly, with some restaurants charging as little as $5 per bottle and others charging $50 or more. Factors that influence the cost of a corkage fee include the reputation and prestige of the restaurant, the quality and cost of the wine being brought in, and the local market.

It is also worth noting that some restaurants do not charge a corkage fee at all. For these establishments, waiving the fee is seen as a way to attract loyal, wine-loving customers. Others may have specific nights or promotions where they waive the corkage fee to encourage diners to visit during slower periods.

In recent years, some high-end restaurants have started offering wine storage as an added perk for their patrons. This involves the restaurant storing a customer’s wine collection on site, allowing them to have access to their favorite bottles whenever they dine at the restaurant. This can be seen as a major commitment device, as customers are more likely to choose a restaurant where they have invested in wine storage. When deciding on a restaurant to store your wine, be sure to ask to tour the location and make sure it meets your requirements. 

If you are interested in exploring the world of corkage fees and wine dining, the CorkageFee app is a great resource to use. This community-driven platform allows users to search for restaurants that allow corkage, leave reviews, and connect with other wine enthusiasts. Whether you are a seasoned wine collector or just starting to explore the world of wine, the CorkageFee app can help you make the most of your dining experience.

In conclusion, corkage fees per bottle are a common practice among restaurants. When planning ahead, remember that the corkage fee quoted is per bottle. Some restaurants may waive the corkage fee to attract loyal customers, while others may offer wine storage as a commitment device. The CorkageFee app is a great resource for wine enthusiasts to explore the world of wine dining and connect with others who share their passion. Download today!

Cooking with Wine: Marinades to Reductions

Cooking with wine is a great way to add depth of flavor and complexity to your dishes. Whether you’re using it as a marinade, a braising liquid, or simply a deglazing agent, wine can take your cooking to the next level.

Wine Marinades

One popular way to use wine in cooking is as a marinade. A red wine marinade, for example, can be a great way to infuse flavor into meats such as beef, lamb, or pork. To make a simple red wine marinade, combine a cup of red wine, a quarter cup of olive oil, a few cloves of minced garlic, and some fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary in a bowl. Mix everything together, then add your meat to the bowl and toss to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour, or overnight for even more flavor.

Braising with Wine

Another way to use wine in cooking is as a braising liquid. Braising is a method of cooking that involves browning meat or vegetables in oil, then simmering them in a flavorful liquid for an extended period of time. Wine makes a great braising liquid because it adds a rich, complex flavor to the dish. To braise meat in wine, simply brown the meat in a pan with some oil, then add a cup or two of wine and enough chicken or beef broth to cover the meat. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then cover the pan and place it in the oven to cook.

Deglazing with Wine

Deglazing is a quick and easy way to use wine in cooking. When you sauté meat or vegetables, they release juices and bits of food that stick to the bottom of the pan. These bits, called fond, are packed with flavor. To deglaze a pan, you simply add a liquid such as wine to the pan, and use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pan and dissolve the fond. As the liquid comes to a simmer, it will reduce, thicken and intensify the flavors. Using wine in this way will give you a deep rich sauce that can be served over the cooked meat, vegetables or even rice.

Wine Reductions 

Wine can also be used to make a reduction, a process that is similar to deglazing but with a more concentrated flavor. A wine reduction is made by simmering wine in a pan until it reduces by at least half. The result is a thick, syrupy liquid that has a concentrated wine flavor and can be used as a sauce or glaze.

Which wine to cook with? 

When cooking with wine, it’s important to remember that the flavor of the wine will be concentrated as it cooks, so it’s best to use a wine that you would enjoy drinking. Avoid using wines that are “cooking wines”, as they often have a high salt content and can be of low quality.

It’s always better to use good quality wine in cooking. One cup of wine for the dish and one glass of wine for the cook! 

In summary, cooking with wine is a delicious and easy way to add depth of flavor to your dishes. Whether you’re using it as a marinade, a braising liquid, or simply a deglazing agent, wine can help take your cooking to the next level. 

When you have your list of favorite wines to “cook” with and would like to take it with you to enjoy out at a restaurant, download the CorkageFee app to find the nearest BYOW restaurant near you. 

Red Wine Picks for Summer

Summer is here! Welcome the sunshine and summer activities such as barbeques, outdoor parties, gatherings and much more with an incredible bottle of red wine. While white wine and rosé wine are popular choices during the summer heat, red wine is equally appealing and delicious to keep cool. Try any or all of these incredible red wines during the hot summertime without breaking the bank.

  • 2008 Genesis Syrah – $16
    This cool, fragrant and spicy wine has a firm structure. It’s appealing and smooth with notes of blackberry.
  • 2008 Quivira Vineyards and Winery Zinfendel – $20
    Full-flavored, robust and juicy, this red wine will add spice to your delightful summer. This wine is firm up to the finish and has notes of cherry, vanilla, plum and wild berry.
  • 2009 Layer Cake Cabernet Sauvignon – $16
    Spend your summer indulging in this creamy and sweet red wine. It has generous and luscious notes of cherries, candied violets, cedar, blackberry and tobacco.
  • 2009 Selvapiana Chianti Rufina – $17
    This wine is like a fresh breeze easily blowing through your summer day. It’s balanced and has depth in color. Enjoy the floral and ripe fruit notes such as spicy cherry fruit, ripe raspberry, robust tannins, herbs and violets.
  • 2008 Edmeades Zinfandel – $20
    Add some powerful energy to your summer when you indulge in this racy red wine. You will enjoy supple and soft tannins along with vivacious cherry and berry fruit notes. In addition to the fruit, you will also sense oak, which gives the wine a smoky flavor.
  • 2013 La Maison Elyse Cabernet Sauvignon – $10
    This full and rich French wine is great to enjoy at summer barbeques and with any other dishes that include grilled meats. It has a long lasting smooth finish with notes of ripe black cherry fruit and aromas of forest fruit and plum.

Enjoy these delicious red wines during your hot summer days to keep cool in a delicious way. Make sure you always serve the wine chilled. It is best if you refrigerate the bottle for about 20 – 30 minutes prior to serving. Share these wine picks with your friends and family to make your summer the best one yet.