Is it cheaper to drink from a keg?

Answered by Dustin Gorski

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that purchasing by the keg can indeed be a more cost-effective option compared to buying bottled beer. Not only does it save you money, but it also offers convenience and requires less storage space in your home.

When you buy beer by the keg, you typically pay around 50% less per unit than if you were to buy the same amount of beer in bottles. This significant cost reduction is due to several factors. First, when you purchase a keg, you eliminate the costs associated with packaging, such as bottles, labels, and caps. Additionally, kegs are designed for repeated use, so you don't have to pay for new packaging each time you want to enjoy a beer.

Another advantage of kegs is that they are more environmentally friendly. By opting for a kegerator in your home, you reduce the amount of waste generated from empty beer bottles. It's a small but impactful way to contribute to sustainability efforts.

Furthermore, investing in a kegerator unit can provide long-term savings. While the initial cost of purchasing a kegerator may seem high, it quickly pays for itself over time. Consider the number of times you make trips to the grocery store to buy cases or packs of bottled beer. Each time, you are paying a premium for the packaging and convenience. By having a kegerator at home, you eliminate these repeated expenses and enjoy the convenience of having fresh beer on tap whenever you desire.

In terms of storage space, kegs are more efficient compared to bottles. A single keg can hold the equivalent of multiple cases of beer. This is particularly advantageous for those who have limited space in their homes, as kegs can be easily stored in a refrigerator or dedicated kegerator unit.

From a personal perspective, I have experienced the cost-saving benefits of drinking from a keg. As a brewer, I have often purchased kegs for events and gatherings instead of buying bottled beer. Not only did it save me money, but it also allowed me to showcase my own brews to friends and family in a more economical and environmentally friendly way.

To summarize the advantages of drinking from a keg:

1. Cost savings: You can save approximately 50% when purchasing beer by the keg compared to buying the same amount in bottles.
2. Environmental friendliness: Kegs generate less waste compared to bottles, contributing to sustainability efforts.
3. Long-term savings: Although the initial investment in a kegerator may be higher, it pays for itself over time by eliminating repeated expenses of buying bottled beer.
4. Convenience: Having fresh beer on tap in your own home is incredibly convenient and eliminates the need for frequent trips to the grocery store.
5. Space efficiency: Kegs require less storage space compared to an equivalent amount of bottled beer, making them ideal for those with limited storage capacity.

Drinking from a keg can be a more cost-effective option compared to buying bottled beer. It offers financial savings, convenience, and environmental benefits. Investing in a kegerator unit can enhance your beer-drinking experience while also providing long-term savings.