What are the four most common problems with cask ale?

Research shows that the most common faults on beer dispense are:

  • Fobbing 39%
  • Temperature 18%
  • Head 15% (Source: The Publican)

What is the difference between cask and keg?

Casks have a curved shape designed to help any sediment settle at the bottom, while kegs are normally straighter with a single opening valve and an extractor or spear running through the middle. Both typically have rolling rings to aid movement.

Does cask beer need venting?

Drive the shank into the keystone and let any gas go, then close the vent tap. fermentation has completed in less than this time, the cask still requires the full 3 days from venting, to develop full flavour and aroma.

When must cask ale be flushed with water?

If you are fortunate to have surplus cask ale pumps it is good practice to flush through the line with cold water when changing a cask. Dirty beer lines are a major sin. Cellar temperature should always be 11-13°C and remain constant.

Why must casks not be moved once on sale?

The pay-off for this is that once the yeast has settled out, care should be taken not to move the cask as the yeast will resuspend itself and you will have to wait a day or so for it to resettle.

Why is cask cheaper than keg?

“A major reason for cask traditionally being cheaper is the shorter shelf life,” says Steve Grae, co-founder of London’s Affinity Brew Co. “Once you put that beer on it has to be finished in three days, and what are you going to do after 3-5 days; you’re going to go and buy another beer.

Is cask ale naturally carbonated?

Cask Ale is naturally conditioned! This allows the beer to naturally develop carbonation, as opposed to keg beer which has been filtered and force-carbonated and must be dispensed using additional gas to restore the fizz.

Is cask ale unfiltered?

It is often slightly cloudy, and is best served at cellar temperature (around 55°F). It’s considered “live” beer since it is unfiltered and has live yeast in the cask (which is how we get the final fermentation and carbonation).

How often should beer pipes be cleaned?

every 7 days
How often should I clean the beer lines? Unless you have special brewery approved equipment then you should clean (or if you employ a cellar services technician have them do it) at a minimum of every 7 days.

Why does beer pour foamy?

The most common causes are: Incorrect Temperature – If the beer is too warm or too cold, it will be more easily disturbed and pour as foam. In most models, the beer line is not refrigerated so the first pour will usually be a bit warmer and a bit more foam.

What is a cask ale?

Loading… Cask Ale is a form a beer that is served directly from a cask without the addition of Nitrogen or CO2, the gases used in any standard draft beer system. The absence of these gases and the addition of live yeast allows the Cask Ale to undergo a brief fermentation process within the cask, ultimately making the draught richer in flavor.

Why choose a-cask for your keg?

A-Cask is one of the leading manufacturers and suppliers of cask ale equipment, keg equipment and cellar supplies to the licensed pub trade and associated companies. We are also the nominated supplier for many brewers and wholesalers.

Why do they put live yeast in cask ale?

The absence of these gases and the addition of live yeast allows the Cask Ale to undergo a brief fermentation process within the cask, ultimately making the draught richer in flavor. Once tapped, the beer must be consumed within 48 hours because it is highly perishable.

How long does it take to drink a cask of beer?

Once tapped, the beer must be consumed within 48 hours because it is highly perishable. For those of you interested in experimenting with Cask Ale, shop our selection of related products including pin casks, spiles, and bungs.