Buying Beer By The Barrel: Is It Possible?

If you're throwing a party and don't have time to brew your own beer, you can buy a barrel of beer. The first place to look is your local microbrewery, which will either sell kegs or be able to tell you where to find them. You can also try your local liquor store, even if they don't advertise kegs. Large liquor retailers like Liquor Barn are likely to be the cheapest option, but smaller retailers may save you money on transport.

You'll need to plan in advance, as you'll have to pay a deposit and may need to reserve your keg. You'll also need to make sure you have the right equipment, including a tap, a bucket for chilling the beer, and plenty of ice.

Buying a Barrel of Beer

Kegs are heavy, so don't lift one yourself

Kegs are heavy, and a full keg can weigh up to 162 pounds. This is far too heavy for one person to lift alone, and even with two people, it's important to be extremely careful to avoid injury. It's always best to use a dolly to move a full keg, and you should never attempt to lift a keg by yourself.

The weight of a keg will depend on the size and how much liquid it contains. A full Cornelius keg, for example, weighs around 55 pounds, while an empty one weighs 10.5 pounds. A full keg that holds 15 gallons of beer (a "full keg" or "half barrel") weighs 160 pounds, while empty it weighs just 30 pounds.

Kegs are usually only delivered to licensed establishments, not private residences, so it's unlikely you'll be tasked with moving one alone. When picking up a keg, it's a good idea to bring a friend to help you lift it in and out of your vehicle.

If you're planning to buy a keg, it's important to keep its weight in mind when planning how to get it home and how to store it. You'll also need to consider the weight when it comes to returning the keg, as most places will require you to return it within a certain timeframe.

So, if you're thinking of buying a keg, remember: they're heavy, so don't lift one yourself!

Kegs are typically sold at liquor stores, breweries, wineries, and even some restaurants

When purchasing a keg, it is recommended to choose a store that is close to your party location and that offers the type of beer you want. It is also essential to plan ahead and place your order in advance, as this will ensure that your specific requirements are met. Some places may offer last-minute orders, but the selection and size options may be limited.

Additionally, it is important to have the proper identification and funds to cover the cost of the deposit and beer. When picking up the keg, you will need to show proof of age, such as a government-issued ID, and be prepared to sign paperwork accepting responsibility for the keg.

Liquor stores, breweries, and wineries are common places to purchase kegs, but some restaurants also sell them. It is always a good idea to call ahead and confirm the availability of kegs and the specific type of beer you are looking for.

You'll need to put down a deposit for the keg and tap

When buying or renting a keg, you'll need to put down a deposit for the keg and tap. This is standard practice and is initiated within 48 hours of the return of the equipment. The deposit is fully refundable.

The deposit amount varies depending on the vendor and the type of keg and tap. For example, Everybody's Brewing charges a $100 deposit for their keg tap and bucket, while Rockford Brewing charges a $50 deposit for their hand pump keg tap.

It's important to note that you may also be charged additional fees, such as a non-refundable keg cleaning fee. These fees can range from $10 to $15.

When renting a keg and tap, be sure to ask about the specific deposit and fee structure of the vendor. This will help you understand the total cost of your rental and ensure you don't incur any unexpected charges.

Kegs need to be kept cold

If a keg is stored at a temperature above 38 degrees Fahrenheit, the beer will become foamy and stale. If the temperature rises above 50 degrees Fahrenheit, bacteria will start to grow, spoiling the flavour and ruining the brew.

Non-pasteurised beer will generally stay fresh for 45-60 days when dispensed with CO2 and stored at the correct temperature. Pasteurised beer can last for up to 90-120 days when stored in a keg at the correct temperature.

If you are using a jockey box to dispense your beer, it is still important to keep the kegs cold to avoid issues with carbonation.

You can buy a kegerator to help with this

If you're looking to buy a barrel of beer, you can buy a kegerator to help with this. A kegerator is a refrigerator that's designed to hold a keg and make it easy to dispense beer. They can be customised with a variety of premium components to deliver the perfect pour.

Kegerators are available with single, double, or triple taps and can be customised to suit your needs, whether you're a homeowner, business owner, or homebrewer. They can be used for a variety of beverages, including beer, cold brew coffee, kombucha, and iced coffee.

Kegerators are a cost-saving option, as each pour can cost as little as $2 for 12 ounces of beer. They are also convenient, as you won't have to keep going to the bar to get a drink.

Kegerators are available from a variety of brands and retailers, including:

• Kegco
• Komos
• Bull Outdoor
• EdgeStar
• VEVOR
• Elite Kitchen Supply
• Zephyr

Frequently asked questions