Understanding Brewery Keg Sizes: From Full to Pony
Brewing and serving beer often involves the use of kegs, which come in various sizes to suit different needs and settings. Understanding the sizes of these kegs is essential not only for brewery owners but also for those managing pubs, bars, and restaurants.
Keg Sizing Information
Let's delve into the different keg sizes used in breweries and how many beers they can hold.
Full Size Keg
A full-size keg, also known as a barrel, holds an impressive volume of beer:
1/2 barrel 15.5 gallons 15.5 gallons 124 pints 124 pints 165 12oz bottlesFull-size kegs are typically used in large-scale operations or for brewery direct sales, where there is a significant demand for beer. They are also common in situations where multiple draft lines are needed.
Pony Keg
The pony keg, a smaller cousin to the full-size keg, holds a more manageable quantity of beer, perfect for less frequent or smaller establishments:
1/4 barrel 7.75 gallons 7.75 gallons 62 pints 62 pints 83 12oz bottlesThis size keg is used in settings such as small taverns, catered events, and as a convenient option for home brewing enthusiasts. The term "pony" is fitting as it can provide a refreshing drink to a “pony” in a racing context, but in beer jargon, it means a smaller, manageable portion.
Sixtel Keg
For those looking for an even smaller option, the sixtel keg is a compact choice:
1/6 barrel 20 liters 20 liters 5.2 gallons 5.2 gallons 41 pints 41 pints 55 12oz bottlesThis keg size is ideal for smaller venues, catering for events, test drinking, or as an easy-to-manage option for homebrewers. Its smaller volume makes it more versatile and adaptable to various settings where space is a factor.
Conclusion
Whether you're a brewer or a bartender, understanding these keg sizes can help ensure your operations run smoothly. By having the right size keg for the job, you can serve your patrons or guests with the perfect amount of beer every time.