Thinking about investing in a draft beer system?

Before you dive in, check out our comprehensive guide on draft beer systems. We break down the different types of draft beer systems, so you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

Read the article: Navigating the Draft: A Guide to Draft Beer Systems

Pros:

  • Taste that’s out of this world: Draft beer is served cold and straight from the keg, making it super fresh and flavorful.
  • Endless variety: With a draft system, you can offer a ton of different beers, from seasonal favorites to limited-edition brews.
  • Cool atmosphere: A draft beer system adds a chill vibe to your spot.
  • Cost-effective: While the upfront cost can be a bit steep, draft beer is usually cheaper per pour than bottles or cans.
  • Better for the planet: Less packaging and transportation waste means a smaller carbon footprint.

Cons:

  • Initial investment: Setting up a draft beer system can be pricey.
  • Maintenance: Keeping it clean and running smoothly takes time and effort.
  • Space eater: Kegs and equipment take up more room than bottles or cans.
  • Wasteful if not managed well: Unused beer can go bad if you’re not careful.
  • Technical know-how: You might need some expertise to keep it running smoothly.

So, is a draft beer system right for you? It depends on your priorities and how much you’re willing to invest. But if you want to offer your customers the best possible beer experience, a draft system is definitely worth considering.

As we mentionned, one of the biggest worries about draft beer systems is the upfront cost and the fear that it won’t pay off. Cervizi tackles these problems by making pouring beer super efficient and awesome for everyone involved. This means saving time and money.

How much time and beer waste can you save?

Cornelius Keg

Cornelius Keg

Alternate Names: Corny Keg, Homebrew Keg, Soda Keg

The tall, cylindrical Cornelius Keg (or Corny Keg) was originally developed (and still used) to store, distribute, and dispense soda like Pepsi or Coke.

However, with a five-gallon capacity (the size of a typical homebrew batch) and a design that’s easy to fill, clean, and maintain, Corny Kegs have become very popular with homebrewers who want to skip the process of bottling beer and enjoy their brew on draft.  

Most Cornelius Kegs utilize a ball-lock style connection, but some older models still feature a pin-lock style.

Cornelius Keg holds 53 12oz cans / bottles or 40 pints

  • Pints (16 oz) of beer per keg: Approx. 40
  • Cans / Bottles (12oz) per keg: Approx. 53
  • Capacity: 5 gallons / 18 liters / 640 ounces
  • Dimensions: 23" x 9"
Sixth Barrel Keg

Sixth Barrel Keg

Alternate Names: Sixtel, 1/6 Barrel, 1/6 BBL

A standard Sixth Barrel Keg (⅙ Barrel) is very similar in size, shape, and capacity to a Cornelius Keg but just a little bit bigger (5.16 gallon capacity vs. 5.0 in a Corny Keg). The main difference is that this style doesn’t utilize a ball or pin-lock connection system but a traditional keg valve that requires a keg coupler for dispensing.

⅙ Barrels (or sixtels, as they’re often called) have become increasingly popular because many craft brewers offer their small-batch experiments only in kegs of this size. Furthermore, many beer-minded restaurateurs that want to offer their customers a wide variety will opt for Sixth Barrel Kegs because they take up less space than their bigger brothers.  

If you opt for a dual-tap kegerator in your home, you’ll have plenty of options to serve on tap because you can fit two of these in one standard kegerator cabinet.

Sixth Barrel Keg holds 55 12oz cans / bottles or 41 pints

Quarter Barrel Keg

Quarter Barrel Keg

Alternate Names: Pony Keg, Stubby Quarter, 1/4 BBL

The Quarter Barrel Keg (AKA Pony Keg or Stubby Quarter) looks like the standard beer keg you’re used to from keg parties but much shorter (hence the “stubby” description). It's 7.75 gallons and perfect for small parties.

Quarter Barrel Keg holds 82 12oz cans / bottles or 62 pints

  • Pints of beer per keg: Approx. 62
  • Cans / Bottles (12oz) per keg: Approx. 82
  • Capacity: 7.75 gallons / 30 liters / 992 ounces
  • Dimensions: 13⅞" x 16⅛"
Slim Quarter Keg

Slim Quarter Keg

Alternate Names: Tall Quarter, Slim 1/4 BBL

This tall, slender keg holds the exact same amount as its stubbier relative, the Quarter Barrel Keg. Much like a ⅙ Barrel, the dimensions of this keg make it a popular choice for people with dual-tap kegerators, but it holds 7.75 gallons, making it more than two gallons larger than a sixtel.

Slim Quarter Keg holds 82 12oz cans / bottles or 62 pints

  • Pints of beer per keg: Approx. 62
  • Cans / Bottles (12oz) per keg: Approx. 82
  • Capacity: 7.75 gallons / 30 liters / 992 ounces
  • Dimensions: 23⅜" x 11⅛"
Half Barrel Keg

Half Barrel Keg

Alternate Names: Full Size Keg, Full Keg, 1/2 BBL

The granddaddy of them all, the 15.5 gallon Half Barrel Keg is probably what you picture when you think of a beer keg. This vessel has been used to distribute macro brews for generations, and if you’re reading this, you’ve likely served yourself a red Solo cup or two from one of these beauties.

Of course, this is also the keg that most bars and restaurants use, and it will also fit any standard-sized kegerator. If you’re interested in trying new brews, you’ll probably want to stick with the smaller sizes.

Half Barrel Keg holds 165 12oz cans / bottles or 124 pints

  • Pints of beer per keg: Approx. 124
  • Cans / Bottles (12oz) per keg: Approx. 165
  • Capacity: 15.5 gallons / 58.7 liters / 1,984 ounces
  • Dimensions: 23⅜" x 16⅛"
50 Litre Keg

50 Litre Keg

Alternate Names: Import Keg, European Barrel, 50 Liter

A 50 Litre Keg is used by European Breweries and is similar in size to its American cousin, the Half Barrel Keg. This is the most common keg size in European countries, including the UK. Popular import brands in the US include Heineken, Newcastle, Hoegaarden and Stella Artois.

Remember that import kegs do not use a standard US Sankey D coupler. Check our keg coupler guide or ask your supplier to make sure you have the right coupler for your keg.

50 Litre Keg holds 140 12oz cans / bottles or 105 pints

  • Pints (16oz) of beer per keg: Approx. 105
  • Cans / Bottles (12oz) per keg: Approx. 140
  • Capacity: 13.2 gallons / 50 liters / 1,690 ounces
  • Dimensions: 20.94" x 16.06"
Mini Keg

Mini Keg

Alternate Names: None

Having a shape similar to a small barrel, a Mini Keg is a perfect option for a small gathering of friends where you might normally bring a 12-pack. The 5-liter mini keg holds about 14 12-ounce pours.

The most popular and easy-to-find version of this keg style is Heineken mini kegs, which contain a CO2 canister to dispense the beer. There isn’t a large selection of mini kegs available, but you can find a few additional imports (ex., Warsteiner, Bitburger) and some craft beers (ex., Bell’s Oberon Ale & Hopslam) depending on where you live. For these mini kegs, you introduce air by opening the bung at the top of the keg and then dispense the beer using the spigot at the bottom.

Mini Keg holds 14 12oz cans / bottles or 10 pints

  • Pints (16oz) of beer per keg: Approx. 10
  • Cans / Bottles (12oz) per keg: Approx. 14
  • Capacity: 1.32 gallons / 5 liters / 1,69 ounces
  • Dimensions: 9 ⅞” x 6 ¾”

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Draft beer systems offer a unique and enjoyable experience, but they also come with certain considerations. While the initial investment and maintenance requirements can be a challenge, the benefits of fresh, high-quality beer and a wider variety of options often outweigh the drawbacks.

Cervizi is a game-changer in the world of draft beer systems. By optimizing the pouring process, they make it easier, faster, and more efficient for bartenders and bar owners. This not only improves the customer experience but also increases profits. If you’re considering a draft beer system, Cervizi is definitely worth exploring.

FAQs

Pros:

  • Fresh, high-quality beer: Kegerators keep beer at the optimal temperature and pressure, ensuring a superior taste.
  • Wide variety: You can enjoy a wider range of beers, including seasonal and limited-edition brews.
  • Cost-effective: Buying beer in kegs can be more economical in the long run.
  • Convenient: Having beer on tap at home is convenient for entertaining and everyday enjoyment.

Cons:

  • Initial investment: Purchasing a kegerator and kegs can be expensive.
  • Maintenance: Cleaning and maintaining the kegerator and lines requires time and effort.
  • Space: You’ll need space to store the kegerator and kegs.
  • Noise: Some kegerators can be noisy, especially when cooling down.

Whether or not a beer dispenser is worth it depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re a frequent beer drinker who enjoys hosting parties or appreciates the quality of fresh draft beer, a beer dispenser might be a worthwhile investment. However, it’s important to consider the initial cost, maintenance requirements, and space needed to store the dispenser and kegs before making a decision.

With today’s technology, there are numerous options available for pouring draft beer. Several companies are innovating the pouring process to make it more efficient while maintaining the highest quality standards. Cervizi from Wild Goose Filling is a prime example of how technology can transform the draft beer experience for bartenders, customers, and bar owners by offering faster service and increased profits.

Yes, draft beer is often considered worth the hype for several reasons:

  • Superior taste: Draft beer is typically served at a lower temperature and directly from the keg, preserving its flavor and freshness.
  • Wider variety: Draft systems allow you to access a more diverse range of beers, including seasonal and limited-edition brews.
  • Enhanced atmosphere: A draft beer system can create a more inviting and authentic atmosphere for your establishment or home.
  • Cost-effective: While the initial investment can be higher, draft beer often costs less per pour than bottled or canned beer.
  • Environmental benefits: Using draft beer reduces waste associated with packaging and transportation.

 

While there are some initial costs and maintenance involved, many people believe that the quality and experience of draft beer are well worth it. 

 

 

 

Draft beer is often considered superior to bottled or canned beer for several reasons:

  • Freshness: It’s served directly from the keg, ensuring a fresher taste.
  • Flavor: Draft beer is often colder and has a more vibrant flavor profile.
  • Variety: Draft systems allow for a wider range of beer styles, including seasonal and limited-edition brews.
  • Atmosphere: A draft beer system can create a more inviting and authentic atmosphere.
  • Efficiency: Pouring draft beer is often faster and more efficient than pouring bottled or canned beer.

 

Ultimately, whether draft beer is “awesome” is a matter of personal preference. However, many beer enthusiasts appreciate the unique qualities and benefits that draft beer offers.

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