Review: Newcastle DraughtKeg
If you've been drinking beer for any length of time you've discovered that your favorite brew is always just a bit better when you get it on tap. But unless you live above a bar (I have a very lucky friend who actually does) then getting a drink of your favorite at its best is never quite as easy as walking to your fridge. Enter DraughtKeg, which promises to make all your "I wish my fridge had beer on tap dreams" come true.
You might say the Draught Keg goes both ways.
The infamous Pope-basher, Protestsant Reformer, and heavy drinker; Martin Luther, once said that "Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy." If the 5 liter kegs from the good people at DraughtKeg aren't proof of a loving God then I don't know what is. As far as I know they are currently only producing Draught Kegs for NewCastle and Heiniken, but that list should grow in the future. Their kegs pair with a device called a Beertender which keeps your mini-keg cold and dispenses it in style. They're around $100 and fairly stylish if you're into that sort of thing. Luckily the DraughtKeg does NOT require a Beertender to work.
You've probably seen a lot of other mini-kegs in stores lately. At first glance they look like the same product. The reality is that the DraughtKeg is completely different in that it contains an internal pressurization device (which sounds just like that thing in a can of spray paint) that keeps the beer fresh, carbonated, and properly pumping for up to 30 days. You'll notice that all the other kegs have their spouts at the bottom. So what you're really paying for is a big metal thing emblazoned with a brand that someone attached a spicket to. The DraughtKeg, on the other hand, pumps directly from the top just like a real keg. (Note: You don't actually have to pump it.)
What about the beer? Significantly better than the bottle, I say. The flavor is smoother and creamier than any bottle of Newcastle I've had. It's cheaper too. When measured by the pint you're paying about $2.18 each. It'll run you slightly more vs. the rate on a 6 pack, but it also takes up less room. Bottom line. I'm a fan and I want you to go buy this, so eventually we can have all our favorite beers sold this way. Ok? Thanks.
Our Rating: **** (Highly Recommended) Price: MSRP $22.99 (but can be found much cheaper)
February 19th, 2011 - 14:07
I have long wanted to live above a bar, although I realize that my days, though happy, would be numbered if it happened.
I might have to try this. Is it really five liters? The price is darn good if that is the case. If I try it I will report back after I sober up.
June 11th, 2011 - 23:58
The mini-keg is infinitely better than just from the bottle, though I think this should come with a keg of strongbow as well. New Castle is great and all, but a Strongcastle is a force to be reckoned with.
August 14th, 2011 - 18:36
very nice article, giving some explanation what i search before