Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or simply enjoy having your favorite beer on tap at home, understanding the capacity of a mini keg is essential.
From the convenience of compact storage to the sheer joy of pouring your draft beer, mini kegs offer a unique beer-drinking experience. But one question often pops up, “How many beers are in a mini keg?”
Let’s dive in and find the answer!
What is a Mini Keg?
A mini keg is a small container resembling a barrel, typically made of aluminum, used to transport and serve draft beer. They are commonly used for personal use or at parties and can hold up to 5 liters (1.32 gallons) of beer, providing around 14 twelve-ounce beers or ten sixteen-ounce beers on average.
This makes them the perfect size for smaller gatherings of friends looking to enjoy draft beer without committing to purchasing much larger standard keg sizes such as a sixth barrel or quarter barrels, which typically hold 7.75 gallons (62 pints) and 15.5 gallons (124 pints), respectively.
Additionally, mini kegs provide convenience in terms of both storage space needs as well as transportation—something half-barrel kegs lack due to their large size—and are becoming increasingly popular among craft beer drinkers looking for an easy way to try different types of brews from one convenient source without having to commit large amounts money ahead of time with glass bottles and cans.
Mini kegs come in many sizes depending on the type of beer they contain, with some brands like Heineken offering unique “mini” sized versions that hold just over 169 ounces (10 beers).
How many beers are in a mini keg?
A standard mini keg, often referred to as a “bubba keg,” typically holds 5 liters of beer. This is approximately equivalent to 10.5 pints or 14 12-ounce cans, making it a great choice for small gatherings or intimate parties. It’s important to note that these measurements can vary slightly based on the serving size.
What Beers are available in mini kegs?
Mini kegs typically hold 5 liters of beer, which is roughly equivalent to 14 standard 12-ounce beers.
Here are some popular options, each with unique flavors, alcohol by volume (ABV), and calorie count.
Heineken Lager
Known for its balanced, refreshing flavor, a Heineken mini keg has an ABV of 5% and approximately 150 calories per 12-ounce serving.
Newcastle Brown Ale
This unique British ale blends malted barley, hops, and brown sugar. A Newcastle mini keg has an ABV of 4.7% and around 138 calories per serving.
Coors Light Lager
A lighter option, a Coors Light mini keg has an ABV of 4.2% and just 102 calories per serving, ideal for those watching their calorie intake.
Spaten Premium Lager
This rich Munich-style lager from a mini keg has an ABV of 5.2% and about 180 calories per serving.
DAB Original Lager
This traditional German beer has an ABV of 5% in a mini keg and contains approximately 143 calories per serving. Enjoy the crisp, light beer flavor at its freshest.
How long will a mini keg last?
Mini kegs can last from 24 hours to nine months, depending on whether the keg has been opened and what type of beer is inside. Unopened mini kegs, such as Heineken, can last up to nine months when stored properly, similar to bottled or canned beers.
Once opened, finishing it within 24-48 hours is recommended for optimal taste and quality. However, the mini keg may last longer than 48 hours when stored in a refrigerator cellar and sealed after each use.
If non-pasteurized beer is inside, a mini keg dispensed with carbon dioxide could stay fresh for 45 – 60 days. It’s important to note that this timeline also depends on the size of the beer and whether or not it is poured into different glasses over multiple uses, increasing exposure to air, which rapidly decreases freshness once tapped.
Keeping the co2 connected will ensure your bag stays bubbly and delicious until its expiration date. Ultimately follow any instructions given by individual brands should you plan on using their products!
Final Take
Understanding the capacity of a mini keg helps you to plan your events efficiently and avoid running out of beer. With approximately 14 standard beers per keg, mini kegs offer convenience and the pleasure of serving draft beer right in your home. Remember to consume responsibly, and enjoy the fresh, flavorful experience that mini kegs provide!
FAQs on How Many Beers are in a Mini Keg
How many 12 oz beers are in a mini keg?
There are approximately 14 standard 12 oz beers in a mini keg.
How long does beer stay fresh in a mini keg?
If unopened, a mini keg can keep the beer fresh for several months. Once tapped, it’s best to consume the beer within 1-2 days.
Can mini kegs be reused?
Generally, store-bought mini kegs are not designed to be reused. However, there are specially designed mini kegs available for home brewing that can be reused.
Do mini kegs need to be refrigerated?
Yes, for the best taste and freshness, mini kegs should be refrigerated.
