Corkage
A fee charged by venues when clients bring their own beverages.
Definition
Corkage is a fee venues charge when clients bring their own alcoholic beverages rather than purchasing from the venue. The fee compensates for lost beverage sales revenue and covers service costs.
Corkage policies vary—some venues prohibit outside alcohol entirely, others allow it with fees per bottle or per person. Wine is most commonly subject to corkage; full bar corkage is rare.
Why It Matters
Understanding corkage can unlock cost savings for events with specific wine or beverage preferences. However, fees can sometimes exceed the savings.
Calculating total cost including corkage helps make informed beverage sourcing decisions.
Examples in Practice
A $35 corkage fee per bottle for wine brought in for a corporate dinner.
Negotiating reduced corkage rates for high-volume events or premium wine purchases.
Some venues waiving corkage for wines not on their list, encouraging exploration.