At Black Lines we have been producing cocktails on tap since our inception. From day one, we have rigorously developed and redefined our serves to ensure their flavour rivals that of any handmade cocktail. Cocktails without compromise, which can be poured and served in 10 seconds.
Our Co-founder Casey Sorenson, previous Head of UK Bars at Soho House, realised back in 2017 that no-one was providing cocktails on tap commercially to pubs, bars, restaurants, festivals and events. It seemed like a no-brainer. So he decided to leave his role and set up Black Lines with Kuleen Khimasia, previously running his own street food businesses.
What Are The Benefits of Cocktails on tap?
First up: speed of service. By putting a cocktail on tap you can greatly reduce the time it takes to pour and serve a drink. The average wait time in the UK for a cocktail is 9 minutes, but to pour and serve one of our cocktails on tap takes 10 seconds. More servings to more people in less time.
Reduction in waste and improvement in stock management are also key benefits. All of our products come in 20L Key Kegs, on average saving venues from having to purchase, store and dispose of 50 glass bottles. There is a clear environmental benefit to draught cocktails too, with the need for less ice, energy and reduction of beverage wastage during service.
Lastly, and often the most overlooked benefit, is consistency. When putting a cocktail on tap, every single serve is exactly the same as the last, no matter which individual behind the bar poured it. For a restaurant with multiple sites across multiple cities, we can guarantee that every Black Lines cocktail on tap will taste the same, no matter where you are, who you are, or what time it is. Cocktails of consistently high quality.
Which Cocktails do we pour on tap?
We currently have 9 cocktails on tap: Paloma, Elderflower Collins, Pear & White Tea Fizz, Spicy Tommy’s Margarita, Negroni, Espresso Martini, Aperol Spritz, Rum Punch and the Passion Fruit Martini.
It is an eclectic range: a majority are classics with our own distinguishable Black Lines twist, along with some serves that we have created ourselves, like the Pear & White Tea Fizz. We appreciate the importance of familiarity when it comes to putting cocktails on tap, so that these are frequently ordered.
What draught system do you need to use for a cocktail on tap?
All of our draught products come in 20L Key Kegs which connect to an existing draught system, and are able to run off any gas. Kegs have a 6-12 months shelf life and should be consumed within 4 weeks once tapped. 7 of our products just need pouring directly over ice, with 2 as Nitro infused serves (Espresso Martini and Passion Fruit Martini).
Can cocktails on tap work alongside a handmade service?
Absolutely. Draught cocktails can help the best bartenders to focus their love and attention on signature cocktails that need time and flare, which is harder to balance when making 10 Espresso Martinis or Aperol Spritz in a busy service. There can be a real synergy between cocktails on tap and handmade service that can work to any bartender’s benefit.
Our aim here at Black Lines is fundamentally to make cocktails more accessible to more people in more locations. To push boundaries as an educator and advocate for how cocktails on tap can help the drinks industry.
If you’re interested in getting in touch with the team about cocktails on tap, please email sales@blacklinesdrinks.com.
