Best Mini-Keg Beers: Where To Buy Them

Mini-kegs are a great way to enjoy beer without the need for a full-size draft system. They are perfect for parties or for those who want to try out their latest homebrew without the hassle of bottling. Mini-kegs come in various sizes, from 2 litres to 5 litres, and can be purchased online from retailers such as Williams Brewing, Northern Brewer, and Walmart, or in-store from Mission Wine & Spirits and Half Time.

Online retailers selling mini-kegs

There are several online retailers that sell mini-kegs of beer.

Total Wine & More offers a range of mini-kegs, including the Shiner Bock Mini Keg, an American Amber/Red Lager with 4.4% ABV, combining old-world Bavarian heritage with American handcraft brewing for a smooth, rich, and satisfying taste. They also offer a variety of other beers in larger keg sizes.

Beer Hawk PerfectDraft mini kegs are available through United Wholesale Scotland, offering major brands such as Stella Artois, Budweiser, and Corona, with prices starting at £27. The PerfectDraft system uses 6L kegs inserted into "blades," allowing you to pour beers at home.

Mission Wine & Spirits also offers mini-kegs for in-store pickup, but their website does not specify the brands available.

Additionally, Half Time provides mini-kegs shipped directly to your door, with enough beer for 14 standard pours, although their website does not specify the brands or types of beer available.

For those looking for just the mini-keg dispenser, Walmart offers a range of options, including the Koolatron 5L Mini Beer Keg Cooler with Dual Taps, mini kegs with cleaning brushes, and stainless steel mini keg taps and dispensers for craft beer.

In-store pickup options

If you're looking to pick up mini-kegs in-store, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, Mission Wine & Spirits offers mini-kegs for in-store pickup, but you must be at least 21 years old to purchase. Another option is to check out Total Wine & More, which offers a range of mini-kegs with different types of beer, including American Amber/Red Lager, German Kolsch, and Euro Pale Lager. You can also try Northern Brewer, which provides a variety of mini-keg draft systems and accessories, such as the 1-gallon mini keg that functions as a portable draft system.

For those who prefer to shop in person, Walmart is an option. They offer a range of mini-kegs and related products, such as cleaning brushes and stainless steel taps. It's always a good idea to check the stock and availability of these items before heading to your local store. Additionally, Williams Brewing provides a wide selection of home brewing equipment, including mini-kegs in various sizes, ranging from 2 to 10 litres.

When purchasing mini-kegs in-store, it's important to keep in mind any age restrictions and to follow local laws regarding the sale and consumption of alcohol.

Mini-keg capacity

Mini-kegs are one of the smallest beer vessels available on the market, with a standard size of 5 litres or 1.32 gallons. This is equivalent to around 14 pints or 169 ounces. Mini-kegs are commonly used for one-time purposes and are ideal for small gatherings, such as watching a game with friends or a small family dinner party. They are also portable, making them suitable for outdoor events like picnics or camping trips.

Mini-kegs are compatible with mini kegerators and can also be used with larger kegerators. They are widely used in the retail beer trade and are often seen in liquor stores.

While mini-kegs are perfect for small gatherings, one downside is that they can be difficult to find for specific beers and are usually not refillable, meaning they have to be recycled after use.

Mini-kegs are also available in other sizes, such as 2 litres, 4 litres, 8 litres, and 10 litres.

Mini-keg taps and accessories

When it comes to mini-keg taps and accessories, there are a variety of options available to suit your needs. Here are some detailed paragraphs outlining some of the key products in this category:

Taps and Dispensers

Mini-keg taps are an essential component for serving beer from mini-kegs. The taps can be included with the mini-kegs or purchased separately. For example, the BSG HandCraft Mini Keg with Tap, available on Amazon, comes with a tap included. This tap attaches to the side of the keg and allows for easy dispensing of your beverage.

Alternatively, if you're looking for a more sophisticated setup, you might consider a mini kegerator. These compact units are designed specifically for mini-kegs and offer a stylish and convenient way to dispense your beer. The Nostalgia Electrics Mini Kegerator BC4600, for instance, features a sleek stainless steel design, perfect for any home or commercial setting.

CO2 Cartridges

Carbon dioxide (CO2) cartridges are necessary for pressurizing and dispensing beer from mini-kegs. These cartridges ensure that your beer stays carbonated and fresh. When using a mini-keg with a tap, you'll need to purchase CO2 cartridges separately. The Party-Star Tap, a two-piece bung, and 16-gram CO2 cartridges are often recommended for this purpose.

Cleaning and Sanitation

Proper cleaning and sanitation of your mini-keg and its accessories are crucial for maintaining beer quality and safety. Mild soap solutions, warm water, and paper towels are essential for thoroughly cleaning your mini-keg before use. Additionally, sanitizing solutions specifically designed for beer equipment should be used to ensure no harmful bacteria affect the taste or safety of your beverage.

Keg Sizes

Mini-kegs come in various sizes, typically ranging from 2 to 10 liters. When choosing a keg size, consider your intended usage and the number of people you plan to serve. For a small gathering, a 5-liter mini-keg might be sufficient, while larger events may require multiple kegs or a larger size, such as the 10-liter KegLand Mini Keg.

In conclusion, there are numerous taps and accessories available to enhance your mini-keg beer experience. Whether you're looking for simple taps, sophisticated kegerators, or essential cleaning supplies, you can find a range of options to suit your preferences and ensure an enjoyable beer-drinking experience.

Mini-keg coolers

When it comes to mini-keg coolers, there are a variety of options to choose from. These products are designed to keep your mini-kegs of beer, or other beverages, chilled and easily dispensed, making them perfect for parties, camping, or any outdoor activity.

One option is the Cooler Keg, an ultra-portable stainless steel cooler and CO₂-driven draft system. The Cooler Keg includes two 228oz kegs that can be filled and refilled with any beverage of your choice, from IPAs to cocktails. The wide-mouth openings make it easy to fill, and the custom-fit ice packs ensure your drinks stay cold without the need for electricity. The CO₂-driven system delivers a real draft pour, with adjustable pressure to ensure perfect carbonation.

For those seeking a more traditional option, kegerators are also available in mini sizes. These compact units are designed for home or commercial use and typically feature a single faucet for dispensing your favourite beverages. The Nostalgia Homecraft Mini Keg and Growler Kegerator, for instance, is a top-quality option for those seeking a mini kegerator. Another example is the Koolatron 5L Mini Keg Beer Cooler, which includes dual taps and both 110-volt and 12-volt power cords.

Mini kegerators offer a convenient way to enjoy fresh, cold beverages on tap without the bulk of a full-size kegerator. They are perfect for those who want the convenience of a kegerator but have limited space or don't want the commitment of a larger unit. With a variety of options available, you can find the perfect mini-keg cooler to suit your needs and keep your drinks chilled and readily available.

Frequently asked questions