Wine flights have been popular for years, and the trend is expanding as restaurateurs offer guests the chance to sample small tastes. While we may overindulge at times—call it the Whitman’s Sampler effect—a flight allows us to broaden our horizons and venture outside our comfort zone. Here are some of the best local examples.
Spirits: If you’re a fan of tequila, El Camino in Delray Beach offers nearly 200 varieties in its formidable tequila book, along with a comprehensive selection of mezcal. All are available in one- or two-ounce pours, giving customers the option of designing their own flight. “We function as a tour guide into the world of tequila,” says general manager Josh Perfit. Even better, El Camino offers flights of rare products such as Del Maguey and Vago, although those vary according to availability and supply. The cost varies as well: A trio of blanco hovers around $15-$20, while a sampling of Del Maguey sells for $35.
Beer: With 16 draft lines to choose from, Delray’s City Oyster is a beer lover’s dream. The undecided may pick four tastes of four ounces each for $6.25. Selections are heavy on local breweries such as Saltwater, Funky Buddha, and Due South, but visiting New Yorkers will appreciate sips from Brooklyn and Long Island. “The bar is extremely busy,” says bar manager Ted Downey. “So drawing draft beer into a four-ounce glass can be a challenge at times, but it’s a nice option for people who don’t know what they want and would like to taste a range of beers to find out.”
Wine: City Cellar Wine Bar & Grill in West Palm Beach’s CityPlace has long offered flights, but recently the experience has become more refined. Now, the selections change monthly and are tailored to wine-maker visits or designed to reflect the menu’s large selection of cheese and charcuterie. Flights consist of three pours of three ounces each, and range from $14-$17. “We’ve done regions such as Argentina, Italy, and New Zealand, or categories such as certified organic,” says general manager Michael Ignatowicz.
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