What’s up, my people! I know, a keg sounds crazy for a kit brewer, right? Actually, it’s pretty awesome. I store part of every batch in a mini keg, and I love it.
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Why I use a mini keg
In my brewing with kits cost breakdown I explain that if you can pony up for a couple of kegs, they’ll drastically cut down the number of bottles you need. The mini keg system I use saves me from bottling somewhere around 14 beers per mini keg. That saves a lot of time cleaning and capping, and the beer tastes great. Really, if you’re going to brew long term, treat yourself.
How I split my batch
In my Brewing with Kits 101 guide I share my setup: I put 5 liters of my brew in a mini keg and the rest in 50cl recycled glass bottles. Kegs and mini kegs cost a little more up front, but cleaning and filling them is a breeze. They save tons of time, and they taste amazing!
Cleaning it
Kegs need cleaning too, but it’s easy. In my cleaning and sanitizing tools post I mention that the same bucket of hot water and cleaning solution I use for bottles is helpful for cleaning kegs, and I even use my bottle drying tree to dry out my kegs.
Pair it with second-hand bottles
For the beer that doesn’t go in the keg, reused glass bottles are the best and cheapest option. Start saving your bottles now and ask friends to save theirs too. Between the mini keg and second-hand bottles, you’ll spend a lot less time and money on storage.
Is it worth it?
If bottling day feels like a chore, a mini keg is one of the best upgrades you can make. Fewer bottles, less cleaning, great beer. You can brew it!
Read more: Brewing with kits cost breakdown: how much will it cost?, Brewing with kits 101: how to brew beer using a kit, 5 time-saving tools for cleaning and sanitizing your gear