As an experienced sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with some insight into the cost of filling a corny keg. The price can vary depending on several factors such as the type of beverage you are filling the keg with, the size of the keg, and where you are purchasing the liquid from.
1. Type of Beverage: The cost of filling a corny keg can greatly differ depending on whether you are filling it with beer, wine, or other types of beverages. Beer is typically the most common choice for a corny keg, and the cost can range anywhere from $50 to $200 or more, depending on the brand and quality of the beer. Wine, on the other hand, can be more expensive to fill a keg with, as it often requires a higher quality product and special equipment for dispensing. The cost for filling a keg with wine can range from $100 to $500 or more.
2. Keg Size: Corny kegs come in various sizes, including 2.5 gallons, 5 gallons, and 10 gallons. The larger the keg, the more expensive it will be to fill. The cost is usually proportional to the volume of liquid you are purchasing. For example, filling a 5-gallon corny keg may cost twice as much as filling a 2.5-gallon keg.
3. Source of Liquid: The cost of filling a corny keg can also depend on where you are purchasing the liquid from. If you are buying directly from a brewery or winery, the cost may be higher compared to purchasing from a distributor or online retailer. Local craft breweries often offer special deals or discounts for filling kegs, so it's worth exploring options in your area.
Personal Experience: In my experience, the cost of filling a corny keg with beer from a local craft brewery ranged from $80 to $150 for a 5-gallon keg. These prices included both the cost of the beer and the rental fee for the keg. However, it's important to note that prices can vary greatly depending on your location and the specific brewery or retailer you choose.
To summarize, the cost of filling a corny keg can vary depending on factors such as the type of beverage, keg size, and the source of liquid. It is best to do some research and compare prices from different breweries or retailers to find the most cost-effective option for filling your corny keg.