Table of Contents
Introduction
Craft beer has become increasingly popular in recent years, and many people are interested in purchasing a keg of craft beer for their next event or gathering. But how much does a keg of craft beer cost? The answer depends on a variety of factors, including the type of beer, the size of the keg, and the location of the purchase. In this article, we will explore the cost of a keg of craft beer and provide some tips for finding the best deal.
How to Calculate the Cost of a Keg of Craft Beer
Calculating the cost of a keg of craft beer can be a tricky endeavor. The cost of a keg of craft beer can vary greatly depending on the type of beer, the size of the keg, and the location of purchase. To accurately calculate the cost of a keg of craft beer, one must consider all of these factors.
First, the type of beer will affect the cost of the keg. Different types of craft beer can vary greatly in price, depending on the ingredients used and the brewing process. For example, a keg of a light lager may cost significantly less than a keg of a barrel-aged stout.
Second, the size of the keg will also affect the cost. Kegs come in a variety of sizes, ranging from a mini keg (5.16 gallons) to a full-size keg (15.5 gallons). Generally, the larger the keg, the more expensive it will be.
Finally, the location of purchase will also affect the cost of the keg. Different retailers may offer different prices for the same type and size of keg. Additionally, some retailers may offer discounts or promotions on certain types of kegs.
To accurately calculate the cost of a keg of craft beer, one must consider all of these factors. Once all of these factors have been taken into account, one can then calculate the total cost of the keg.
The Pros and Cons of Buying a Keg of Craft Beer
The purchase of a keg of craft beer can be a great way to enjoy a variety of beers in a cost-effective manner. However, there are both pros and cons to consider before making such a purchase.
Pros
Cost-Effective: Buying a keg of craft beer is often more cost-effective than buying individual bottles or cans. This is especially true if you are hosting a large gathering or party.
Variety: Kegs of craft beer often come in a variety of styles and flavors, allowing you to sample a variety of beers without having to buy multiple bottles or cans.
Freshness: Kegs of craft beer are often fresher than bottled or canned beer, as they are not exposed to light or air.
Cons
Storage: Kegs of craft beer require a large amount of space for storage, and may not be suitable for those with limited storage space.
Equipment: In order to properly dispense a keg of craft beer, you will need to purchase additional equipment such as a tap and CO2 tank.
Time: Kegs of craft beer must be consumed within a certain amount of time, usually within a few weeks. If not consumed in time, the beer will go flat and lose its flavor.
The Different Types of Kegs Available for Craft Beer
When it comes to craft beer, the type of keg used can have a significant impact on the quality of the beer. There are several different types of kegs available for craft beer, each with its own unique advantages and disadvantages.
The most common type of keg used for craft beer is the stainless steel keg. These kegs are durable, easy to clean, and can hold up to 15.5 gallons of beer. They are also relatively inexpensive and can be used for both draft and bottled beer. The downside to stainless steel kegs is that they can be difficult to transport and require a special tap system for dispensing.
Another popular type of keg for craft beer is the plastic keg. These kegs are lightweight and easy to transport, making them ideal for events and festivals. They are also relatively inexpensive and can hold up to 5 gallons of beer. The downside to plastic kegs is that they are not as durable as stainless steel kegs and can be difficult to clean.
Finally, there are also wooden kegs available for craft beer. These kegs are more expensive than stainless steel or plastic kegs, but they offer a unique flavor and aroma to the beer. Wooden kegs are also more durable than plastic kegs and can hold up to 10 gallons of beer. The downside to wooden kegs is that they require more maintenance and can be difficult to transport.
No matter which type of keg you choose for your craft beer, it is important to make sure that it is properly maintained and cleaned. This will ensure that your beer tastes its best and that it is served in the best possible condition.
How to Store and Serve a Keg of Craft Beer
Storing and serving a keg of craft beer is a great way to enjoy a variety of flavors and styles. To ensure that your beer is served at its best, it is important to follow a few simple steps.
First, make sure that the keg is stored in a cool, dark place. The ideal temperature for storing beer is between 45-55 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature is too high, the beer will spoil quickly. Additionally, light can cause the beer to become skunky, so it is important to store the keg in a place that is not exposed to direct sunlight.
When it is time to serve the beer, make sure that the keg is properly tapped. This involves attaching a tap to the keg and then connecting a CO2 tank to the tap. The CO2 tank will provide the pressure needed to push the beer out of the keg. It is important to make sure that the pressure is set correctly, as too much pressure can cause the beer to foam excessively.
Once the keg is tapped, it is important to keep it cold. The ideal serving temperature for craft beer is between 38-45 degrees Fahrenheit. If the beer is too warm, it will not taste as good. To keep the beer cold, it is best to place the keg in a kegerator or a cooler filled with ice.
Finally, it is important to pour the beer correctly. The ideal pour is one that produces a two-finger head of foam. To achieve this, hold the glass at a 45-degree angle and pour the beer slowly. Once the glass is about two-thirds full, straighten the glass and continue pouring until the foam reaches the top.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your keg of craft beer is stored and served properly. Enjoy!
The Benefits of Buying a Keg of Craft Beer for Home Use
Craft beer has become increasingly popular in recent years, and many people are now choosing to buy a keg of craft beer for home use. There are many benefits to buying a keg of craft beer for home use, including convenience, cost savings, and variety.
Convenience is one of the main benefits of buying a keg of craft beer for home use. Kegs are easy to store and transport, and they can be tapped and served quickly. This makes it easy to enjoy craft beer at home without having to worry about buying individual bottles or cans.
Cost savings is another benefit of buying a keg of craft beer for home use. Kegs are typically much cheaper than buying individual bottles or cans, and they can last for weeks or even months. This makes it much more cost-effective to enjoy craft beer at home.
Variety is another benefit of buying a keg of craft beer for home use. Kegs come in a variety of sizes and styles, so it’s easy to find the perfect beer for any occasion. This makes it easy to enjoy a variety of craft beers without having to buy multiple bottles or cans.
In conclusion, there are many benefits to buying a keg of craft beer for home use. It is convenient, cost-effective, and provides a variety of options. For anyone looking to enjoy craft beer at home, buying a keg is a great option.
Q&A
1. How much does a keg of craft beer typically cost?
The cost of a keg of craft beer can vary greatly depending on the type of beer, the size of the keg, and the location of purchase. Generally, a full-size keg of craft beer can range from $80 to $200.
2. How many beers are in a keg of craft beer?
A full-size keg of craft beer typically contains around 165 12-ounce servings.
3. How long does a keg of craft beer last?
A keg of craft beer can last up to 6 weeks if stored properly.
4. What is the best way to store a keg of craft beer?
The best way to store a keg of craft beer is in a cool, dark place. The temperature should be between 35-45 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. What is the best way to serve a keg of craft beer?
The best way to serve a keg of craft beer is with a draft system. This will ensure that the beer is served at the optimal temperature and carbonation level.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cost of a keg of craft beer can vary greatly depending on the type of beer, the size of the keg, and the location of purchase. Generally, a keg of craft beer can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 or more. It is important to do research and shop around to find the best deal for the type of beer desired.