Tap wine gains momentum in Melbourne bars

When tap wine first appeared on Melbourne’s quality drinking scene a few years ago, it would be fair to say there were critics who suggested that the trend would not, or should not, continue. However continue it has with several new bars embracing the idea of great value, premium quality wines, served direct from the tap and direct from some of Victoria’s finest wine regions and makers.

ReWineAt the top end of Lygon Street on the border of East Brunswick and Coburg, Rewine is a new bar with and old history. Owner Marshall Waters started selling refillable wine, and wine by the keg, at the Preston Market in 2003, he then moved his operation to Shed 92 at the Queen Victoria Market, and has now launched his first city-fringe wine bar. Customers can enjoy a selection of tapas style dishes washed down with a glass of premium wine, or take home a few bottles of wine to return, refill and reuse. Loads of interesting varietals are available from top wine makers around Australia. 522 Lygon Street, Brunswick East, 1300 727 186

Harry and FrankiePossibly the first in Melbourne to embrace wine on tap in its Port Melbourne bar, the family owned business has now expanded north of the river to take up the space upstairs at Fitzroy institution, The Rose Hotel. This cosy and welcoming venue offers an equally welcome selection of beers on tap and two wines that have been made especially for the venue. Available on tap for $8 a glass or $22 for a 500ml carafe. 406 Napier Street, Fitzroy, +61 3 9417 3626

38 Chairs and Mr BondItalian owners and a very Italian vibe can be found at both 38 Chairs outposts in North Carlton and South Yarra – and the latter’s next door neighbour Mr Bond.  All venues offer authentic but modern pasta dishes as well as panini and piadine and loads of delicious primi or starter options. Mr Bond and newly opened 38 Chairs North Carlton, also offer quality Italian varietals on tap including a rose, sangiovese, prosecco and pinot grigio. 2 Bond Street, South Yarra +61 3 9827 5553 and 651 Rathdowne Street, Carlton North, +61 3 8383 4113

The ArboryMelbourne’s favourite new bar has to be one of the longest in the world, running the entire length of a platform at the iconic Flinders Street Station. With a view that takes in Southbank’s arts precinct and riverside entertainment, it’s a very popular spot with local and visitors alike. The bar offers a selection of craft beers, exclusive to Arboy, pinot grigio and granache rose on tap and – espresso martinis – also on tap. Flinders Street Railway Station, 1 Flinders Walk, Melbourne, + 61 3 8648 7644