If you're looking to buy cheap kegs of beer, there are several options available to you. The price of a keg of beer depends on the brand and size, with some half-barrel kegs costing as little as $79, and others costing over $200. You can buy kegs of beer online from retailers such as Total Wine & More, Beer Run, and Dirt Cheap. These retailers offer a range of different keg sizes, including half-barrel, quarter-barrel, and sixth-barrel kegs, and carry popular brands such as Budweiser, Coors, and Miller Lite. When buying a keg of beer, it's important to keep in mind that you may also need to purchase additional supplies such as cups, taps, and buckets or tubs to keep the keg cold.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Keg Sizes | Half barrel, Quarter barrel, Sixth barrel, Cornelius keg, Mini-keg |
Number of Beers in a Keg | 14-165 12-ounce beers |
Keg Couplers | A, D, G, M, S, U |
Keg Weight | 55-161 pounds when full |
Keg Price | $79-$255 |
Keg Deposit | $15 |
Keg Rental | Available |
Pickup Options | In-store pickup, delivery |
Keg prices
The price of a keg of beer depends on its size and brand. For example, a half keg of Dos Equis Amber costs about $158 plus a deposit, while a half keg of Stieglitz Grapefruit costs $220 plus deposit. The keg deposit is typically small, at around $15.
A half-barrel keg of Bud Light can cost anywhere from $79 to $139, depending on the market (plus deposit). The price range is due to distributors, who sell the kegs to retailers, varying by state and market.
- Miller High Life 1/2 barrel: $119.99
- Dos Equis 1/2 barrel: $199.99
- Bud Light 1/2 barrel: $139.99
- Stella Artois 1/6 barrel: $109.99
- Guinness Draught 20L keg: $119.99
- Founders All Day IPA 1/4 barrel: $139.99
Total Wine & More offers a range of keg sizes, including the half barrel, quarter barrel, sixth barrel, Cornelius keg, and mini-keg. The number of beers in a keg can range from 14 to 165 12-ounce beers, depending on the size.
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Where to buy
There are several options for purchasing cheap kegs of beer, both online and in-store.
Online
Total Wine & More offers a wide selection of beer kegs, including popular brands such as Budweiser, Coors, and Corona. They also provide specialty styles, seasonal releases, and gluten-free options. The website includes detailed information about keg sizes, couplers, and beer quantities.
In-Store
Dirt Cheap offers a straightforward keg-buying process and provides various keg sizes, including sixth barrel, quarter barrel, and half barrel. They stock big brands like Budweiser and require a refundable deposit on all kegs.
Beer Run is another option, with a comprehensive list of kegs available, including popular brands such as Bud Light, Budweiser, and Coors Light. They require a $30 deposit on all kegs and recommend ordering at least three business days in advance.
For those in Atlanta, Five Points Bottle Shop and Tower Beer, Wine and Spirits are recommended options for purchasing beer kegs.
Additionally, City Beverage provides keg pricing and availability information, although specific brands are not listed.
When purchasing a keg, it is essential to consider the size, brand, and your location, as prices and availability may vary.
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Keg sizes
Kegs come in a variety of sizes, with the most common being the half barrel, quarter barrel, sixth barrel, Cornelius keg, and mini-keg. Here is a detailed breakdown of each:
Half Barrel Keg
The half barrel keg, also known as the full-size keg or full keg, is the standard size used in the US brewing industry. It holds 15.5 gallons of beer, which is equivalent to approximately 124 pints or 165 12-ounce servings. This size is commonly used in bars and restaurants, and it will fit any standard-sized kegerator.
Quarter Barrel Keg
The quarter barrel keg, also known as the pony keg, stubby quarter, or slim quarter, holds half the amount of a half-barrel keg, i.e., 7.75 gallons. This equates to approximately 62 pints or 82-83 12-ounce servings. This size is perfect for smaller venues, special events, or when offering a variety of beers. Quarter-barrel kegs come in two different heights, with the standard quarter-barrel offering greater stability due to its wider diameter, while the slim quarter is designed for vertical space utilization.
Sixth Barrel Keg
The sixth barrel keg, often referred to as a sixtel, holds 5.16 gallons, which is equivalent to about 41-42 pints or 55 12-ounce servings. This size is commonly used for specialty and craft beers, allowing for a diverse selection without the risk of the beer becoming stale. The sixth barrel keg is also a popular choice for beer-minded restaurateurs who want to offer their customers a wide variety of options.
Cornelius Keg
The Cornelius keg, fondly known as the "Corny keg," was originally designed for dispensing soft drinks but has become popular with homebrewers. It holds 5 gallons of beer, which translates to around 40 pints or 53 12-ounce servings. The Cornelius keg is known for its easy cleaning and filling process, making it a convenient option for homebrewers.
Mini Keg
The mini keg, also known as the bubba keg, is perfect for small gatherings or outdoor events. It holds 1.32 gallons of beer, which is equivalent to approximately 10 pints or 14 12-ounce servings. Heineken mini kegs are the most popular and easy-to-find version of this keg style, and they can be found in many liquor stores worldwide.
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Deposit and collection
When buying a keg of beer, you will usually be required to pay a deposit on top of the cost of the beer. This deposit is typically small, ranging from $15 to $30, and it is fully refundable upon the return of the empty keg. It is important to note that the deposit may vary depending on the location and the retailer.
To get your deposit back, you must return the keg in its empty state with the traceable tag still attached. This tag is important as it allows the retailer to identify the keg and process your refund. The process for returning the keg and receiving your deposit refund may vary depending on the retailer, so be sure to inquire about their specific requirements.
Some retailers may have additional requirements or fees associated with the collection of the keg. For example, you may need to provide your own transportation for picking up and returning the keg, as most retailers do not offer delivery services. Additionally, you may be responsible for providing your own bucket, tub, and tap for dispensing the beer. These items can usually be rented or purchased from the retailer, but it is important to plan ahead and communicate your needs in advance.
When picking up your pre-ordered keg, it is important to remember that you will need to be of legal drinking age and present a valid form of identification. The legal drinking age in the United States is 21 years old, and retailers will strictly enforce this requirement. Additionally, it is your responsibility to ensure that the keg is handled and transported safely and securely. Most retailers will not assist you in loading the keg into your vehicle, so you may need to bring someone with you to help.
Remember that keg beer is typically unpasteurized and has a shorter shelf life than bottled or canned beer. Once a keg is tapped, the beer will usually stay fresh for about 24 hours before starting to go bad. Therefore, it is important to plan your event accordingly and ensure that the keg is consumed within this timeframe. Proper care and storage of the keg, such as keeping it cold and settled before tapping, can help extend its freshness.
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Storage and serving
Storing and serving beer from a keg is a simple process, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your beer stays fresh and tasty. Firstly, let your keg settle for an hour or so after you get it home before tapping it. Beer isn't like other beverages and doesn't need to be shaken or stirred, so give it some time to rest.
Temperature is also crucial. Keep your keg in a cool place, ideally between 30-40 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the keg in a large bucket and cover it completely with ice to achieve this temperature range. This will help keep your beer refreshing and prolong its life.
Once tapped, keg beer has a shorter shelf life than bottled or canned beer. Unpasteurized beer will only last about 24 hours before it starts to go bad. Pasteurized beer will last longer, up to six to eight weeks, but it's still best consumed within the first few weeks of tapping.
When it comes to serving, there are two common pump styles: American and slider pumps. Make sure you have the right pump for your keg type. American (D-type) and European (A & M-type) are the two most common kegs. Also, ensure both the pump and the keg valve are clean and free of mold or damage.
To serve the beer, simply attach the pump to the keg valve and start pumping. The pumps use air to push the beer out of the keg. Always remember to check the pressure, as too much or too little can make your beer foamy. A pressure of 12 PSI is considered ideal.
Lastly, don't forget to stock up on cups and ice, and enjoy your freshly poured beer!
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Frequently asked questions
There are several places where you can buy cheap kegs of beer. Dirt Cheap, Beer Run, and Total Wine & More are some of the places that offer cheap kegs of beer.
The price of a keg of beer depends on the brand and size. For example, a half-keg of Budweiser is $174, while a half-keg of Bud Light is $179.
The different sizes of kegs include the half barrel, quarter barrel, sixth barrel, Cornelius keg, and mini-keg. The price of a half barrel, which holds 15.5 gallons, can range from $79 to $255. A quarter barrel, holding 7.75 gallons, can cost around $80. A sixth barrel, holding 5.16 gallons, can be priced at $112 to $157.