Why Winemakers Love Beer — and Why a Kegerator Belongs in Wine Country

There’s a saying in wine country: “It takes a lot of beer to make great wine.”  Here in the wine industry, you might be surprised to find something else on tap: beer. And not just any beer—often it’s small-batch, thoughtfully brewed, and stored in kegerators for optimal freshness.

Yes, Winemakers are Inspired by Beer — Here's Why
Ask any winemaker what they’re sipping after a long day of harvest or bottling, and odds are it’s not wine—it’s beer. After hours spent tasting and refining complex vintages, beer offers a crisp, refreshing reset. The tradition runs deep: beer has long been the after-work beverage of choice for cellar crews, harvest interns, and vineyard managers.

It’s cold. It’s easy. And it doesn’t require a spit bucket.

Beer Culture in Wine Country
Despite being known for world-class wine, regions like Napa and Sonoma have quietly developed a thriving craft beer scene. Many winemakers even brew their own beer as a creative outlet or side project. After all, fermentation is fermentation—whether it’s grapes or grains.

The cross-pollination between wine and beer isn’t just cultural—it’s practical. Beer helps cleanse the palate, reset the senses, and bring people together in a casual, communal way.

The Role of a Kegerator
Enter the beer kegerator. If you're living or entertaining in wine country, a kegerator isn’t a luxury—it’s a lifestyle upgrade. Here’s why:

• Freshness on Tap: Beer from a keg stays colder and fresher longer than cans or bottles.
  
  

• Entertaining Made Easy: Whether you’re hosting a harvest party or a casual tasting with friends, having draft beer on tap is a crowd-pleaser.
  
  

• Sustainability: Kegs reduce packaging waste and are often reused, making them an eco-friendly option for frequent entertainers.
  
  

• Customization: From pilsners to porters, IPAs to lagers, you can rotate your kegs just like your wine pours—keeping things fresh and seasonal.

Shop our selection of Beer Kegerators for your outdoor festivities this summer.

Popular Kegerator Picks for Wine Country Homes
Whether you’re outfitting a backyard kitchen or upgrading your garage hangout, today’s kegerators come in a range of styles and sizes. Consider models with:

• Built-in digital thermostats
  
  

• Dual taps (perfect for offering two styles at once)
  
  

• Sleek stainless steel exteriors that match modern wine cellars
  
  

Closing Thoughts
Wine may be the star of the show in Napa, Sonoma, and beyond—but beer is the unsung hero behind the scenes. For winemakers, it’s a break, a refresh, and a reminder not to take life too seriously.

So next time you raise a glass in wine country, don’t be surprised if there’s a frothy head and a golden pour inside. With a kegerator at home, you can join in the tradition—and toast to the best of both worlds. In Vino Veritas!