Beatrix Montes
Yes, you can buy a beer keg, and there are several options for doing so. You can buy a beer keg online or in-store from specialist companies such as NYC Beer & Kegs, Total Wine & More, and Triboro Beverage. You can also buy a beer keg directly from some breweries, such as Strong Rope. Prices vary depending on the size and brand of the keg, ranging from $79 to over $500.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Container | Large, made of stainless steel |
| Use | Store and serve beer under pressure |
| Packaging | Preferred for bulk quantities of beer |
| Advantages | Ease of use, durability, keeps beer fresh for longer |
| Common use | Pubs, restaurants, events |
| Sizes | 5-gallon, 7.75-gallon, 5.2-gallon, 15.5-gallon, 1.32-gallon |
| Number of beers | 14-165 12-ounce beers |
| Types | Half barrel, quarter barrel, sixth barrel, Cornelius keg, mini-keg |
| Other names | Full-size, pony, stubby, slim quarter, sixteen, corny keg, bubba keg |
| Cost | $79-$500, depending on the brand and market |
What You'll Learn
Keg delivery services
When ordering a keg, you can expect to choose from various sizes, including half barrels, quarter barrels, sixth barrels, Cornelius kegs, and mini-kegs, which typically range from 15.5 gallons to 1.32 gallons in volume. The cost of a keg depends on the size and brand, with prices ranging from $79 to $579.99 for a half-barrel, plus a small deposit fee. Some companies also offer rental services for taps and kegerators, making it easy to set up and serve your beer.
In addition to beer, some keg delivery services also offer other beverages such as wine, cold brew coffee, and hard seltzer. You can even find kombucha kegs in various flavours, providing a non-alcoholic option for your guests.
When it comes to delivery areas, some companies cater to specific cities or regions, such as New York City, while others may have a wider reach. It's always a good idea to check if your desired delivery location is covered by the company you're interested in.
Most companies will also pick up the empty keg after your event, often for free, as long as it has been emptied and is ready for collection. This hassle-free service ensures that you don't have to worry about returning the keg yourself.
So, if you're looking to take your party to the next level, consider using a keg delivery service. With their convenient ordering, fast delivery, and wide range of beverage options, they can help you create a unique and enjoyable experience for you and your guests.
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Keg rental services
Renting a keg is a great option for those who want the convenience and flexibility of having a keg without the commitment of buying one. Here is an overview of keg rental services and what to consider:
Types of Keg Rental Services
- Rent-to-own programs: These programs allow you to rent a keg for a specified period and eventually own it after making all the rental payments. This is a good option if you plan to use a keg long-term and want the flexibility of lower upfront costs.
- Short-term leasing: If you only need a keg for a specific event or a short period, short-term leasing is a great choice. You can rent a keg for a few days or weeks without a long-term commitment.
- Pay-per-fill: This model offers flexibility, as you only pay for the kegs you use. It is suitable for breweries or businesses that want to optimise their costs based on usage.
- Kegerator installation services: Some companies provide kegerator installation and servicing plans. This is ideal if you want to set up a kegerator at your home or office and need assistance.
What to Consider When Choosing a Keg Rental Service
When selecting a keg rental service, there are several factors to keep in mind:
- Location: Ensure the rental company services your area. Delivery charges and availability may vary depending on your location.
- Variety of options: Look for a company that offers a wide range of keg sizes and beverage options, including beer, wine, cold brew, and hard seltzer. This ensures you can find the right keg for your needs.
- Convenience: Consider a rental service that provides additional accessories, such as taps, tubs, ice, and cups. This saves you the hassle of sourcing these items separately.
- Flexibility: Choose a company that offers custom quotes and payment terms that work for you. This ensures you can find a rental plan that fits your budget and specific requirements.
- Reliability: Opt for a rental service with a good reputation for delivering kegs on time and in excellent condition. Check reviews or testimonials to gauge their reliability and customer satisfaction.
Example Keg Rental Services
- NYC Beer & Kegs: They offer a wide range of beer kegs, including craft beers, lagers, and more, with quick delivery across New York. They also provide free delivery and scheduling options.
- NYC Kegs: This company delivers to Brooklyn and Manhattan, offering a variety of beverages, including beer, wine, and cold brew. They also provide kegerator installation services and free pickup of empty kegs.
- Total Wine & More: With over 200,000 beer kegs sold per year, they offer a range of popular domestic and craft beers. They have self-service, walk-in coolers and provide taps and kegs for rent, along with accessories like tubs, ice, and cups.
- MicroStar: MicroStar manages two pools of kegs in the US, offering a flexible and efficient model. They provide outsourced keg solutions, taking care of logistics so you only need to focus on ordering, filling, and cleaning the kegs.
- Keg Logistics: With a range of program options and flexible payment terms, Keg Logistics caters to operations of all sizes. They offer German-made kegs and custom quotes to meet your specific needs.
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Popular beer keg brands
There are several popular beer keg brands to choose from, with options varying based on the region. Here is a list of some of the most popular beer keg brands:
North America
Well-known national names like Budweiser, Coors Light, Bud Light, Miller Lite, and Corona are popular choices in the United States. Additionally, craft beers from respected breweries such as Bell's Brewery, Brooklyn Brewery, and Sierra Nevada offer a variety of unique flavors and styles to cater to diverse tastes.
Europe
When it comes to European beers, Heineken and Guinness are popular choices. The "A" coupler, which fits most German keg valves, will be your best bet for German beers like Franziskaner Hefe-Weisse and Ayinger Bräu-Weisse. For European beers, the "S" coupler is a good option, as it works with most European kegs.
Australia and New Zealand
Some popular choices in Australia and New Zealand include Sierra Blanca Bone Chiller Brown Ale, Sailfish Lionfish Pale Ale, and New Zealand Steinlager.
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How long kegs of beer last
Yes, you can buy a beer keg. Many companies offer kegs for sale or rent, and some deliver.
Now, how long your keg of beer will last depends on several factors. Firstly, the type of beer matters. Mass-produced beers tend to have a longer shelf life than craft beers, with some mass-produced beers lasting up to 120-180 days (4-6 months). For craft beers, there is no definitive answer, and only the brewer would know the exact shelf life.
Secondly, whether the beer is pasteurized or unpasteurized is important. Pasteurized beers stored cold can last up to 90-120 days (3-4 months), while unpasteurized beers will typically stay fresh for about 45-60 days (6-8 weeks) when stored at the correct temperature.
Additionally, the method of dispensing the beer also affects its longevity. Using a kegerator or draft system with CO2 or nitrogen will not impact the beer's freshness if it is stored at the proper temperature and pressure. On the other hand, using a manual, party, or picnic pump introduces oxygen into the keg, causing the beer to go flat and spoil within 8 to 24 hours.
Lastly, storing your keg at the right temperature is crucial. The recommended temperature for storing draft beer is 38°F (3-4°C). If the temperature rises above 50°F, bacteria can form, and if it goes above 55°F, the beer will spoil quickly. If the temperature drops too low, the beer will freeze, which happens at around 28°F, depending on the beer's alcohol content.
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Keg couplers
A keg coupler is a vital piece of equipment that connects the gas and beer lines to your keg. Pressurised gas (either CO2 or nitrogen) flows into the side of the keg coupler through an air line, and the beer flows out through a beer line attached to the top.
Even though all keg couplers are similar in appearance and function, you need to ensure you have the right style for the keg you want to tap. The D-System Sankey Coupler, for example, will tap most American or Canadian domestic kegs, including Miller and Budweiser. For European brands, the S-System European Sankey Coupler works with the majority of beers like Heineken and Amstel. If you want to dispense Guinness, you will need the U-System Guinness Coupler, which will also work for Harp Lager and Kilkenny. The A-System Coupler is known for tapping notable German beers, including Hoegaarden and Isenbeck. The M-System and G-System Couplers are less commonly used but are required for some beers.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, beer kegs can be delivered to your doorstep within an hour in some places.
The cost of a beer keg depends on the size and brand of beer. A half-barrel keg of Bud Light can cost anywhere from $79 to $139, while a half keg of Stieglitz Grapefruit is $220.
The different sizes of beer kegs include the half barrel, quarter barrel, sixth barrel, Cornelius keg, and mini-keg, ranging from 15.5 gallons to 1.32 gallons.
A beer keg can last for six to eight weeks inside a CO2-based kegerator. Pasteurized beers stored cold can last up to six months, while unpasteurized beers typically stay fresh for about two months.
