Refilling a growler is a simple and enjoyable process that allows you to bring home your favorite craft beer straight from the brewery. The steps may vary slightly depending on the specific brewery, but here is a general guide on how to refill a growler:
1. Choose the Brewery: Start by selecting a brewery that offers growler refills. Many craft breweries have dedicated growler stations or counters where you can bring your empty growler to be filled. It's always a good idea to check the brewery's website or call ahead to confirm their refill policy and available beer options.
2. Clean and Prepare Your Growler: Before heading to the brewery, make sure your growler is clean and free of any residue or odors from previous use. Rinse it with warm water and a mild detergent, ensuring that you thoroughly clean both the inside and outside of the growler. Rinse it well to remove any soap residue, and allow it to air dry before your visit to the brewery.
3. Choose Your Beer: Once you arrive at the brewery, take some time to explore the different beer options they have available for growler refills. Breweries often have a wide selection of their flagship beers, seasonal brews, and limited releases on tap. Feel free to ask the brewery staff for recommendations or samples if you're unsure which beer to choose.
4. Hand Over Your Growler: When you've made your selection, hand over your empty, clean growler to the brewery staff. They will typically inspect the growler to ensure it's in good condition and fits their refill requirements. Some breweries may only refill their own branded growlers, while others are more flexible.
5. Fill ‘Er Up: The brewery staff will then fill your growler with your chosen beer straight from the tap. The filling process may vary depending on the brewery's equipment, but it usually involves connecting a hose or tube to the tap and inserting it into the growler. The staff will take care to fill the growler properly, leaving the right amount of headspace to ensure the beer stays fresh.
6. Seal and Pay: Once your growler is filled, the brewery staff will seal it with either a screw-on or swing-top cap to ensure the beer remains carbonated and doesn't leak during transportation. They will then provide you with the total cost of the beer and any applicable discounts for reusing your growler. Pay for the refill and any other items you may have purchased, such as additional beer or merchandise.
7. Handle and Store with Care: After you've paid for your refill, it's important to handle and store your growler properly to maintain the beer's quality and carbonation. Avoid shaking or agitating the growler to prevent excessive foaming. Make sure to keep it upright and refrigerated until you're ready to enjoy the beer. Remember, the beer inside the growler is perishable and should be consumed within a few days to retain its freshness.
8. Enjoy Responsibly: it's time to savor your freshly filled growler of craft beer! Pour the beer into a glass, admire its color and aroma, and take your time to enjoy the flavors. Share it with friends or savor it on your own, knowing that you're supporting local breweries and reducing waste by reusing your growler.
By following these steps, you can easily refill your growler and continue to enjoy the delicious and diverse offerings of craft beer straight from the source. Cheers!