What is Draught Beer: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding This Beer Style

Draught beer, also referred to as draft beer or keg beer, is a type of beer that is served from a pressurized container or keg. This is in contrast to canned or bottled beer, which is kept under carbon dioxide pressure and sold in sealed containers. Draught beer is typically poured from a tap or spout, making it a popular choice for bars, restaurants, and other establishments. The process of serving draught beer involves several steps, including keeping the keg under carefully controlled conditions to maintain the optimal temperature, pressure, and carbonation levels. In this way, draught beer provides a unique drinking experience that is prized by beer lovers around the world.

The History of Draught Beer

The Origins of Draught Beer

Draught beer, also known as draft beer, is a beer that is served from a cask or keg rather than a bottle or can. The term “draught” comes from the Old English word “dragan,” which means “to draw” or “to pull.” Draught beer has been around for centuries and was first popularized in Europe during the Middle Ages.

The Evolution of Draught Beer

Over time, different regions developed their own styles of draught beer. In the UK, cask ale is the most popular type of draught beer, while in Germany, beer is typically served from a keg. In the United States, draught beer is often served from a keg or a tap.

How Draught Beer is Made

The Brewing Process

Draught beer is made using the same basic brewing process as other types of beer. The first step is to mix malted barley with hot water to create a mash. The mash is then boiled with hops to add bitterness and flavor to the beer. Finally, yeast is added to the mixture to ferment the sugars and create alcohol.

Conditioning and Carbonation

After the beer has been brewed, it is conditioned and carbonated. Conditioning involves allowing the beer to mature and settle, which helps to improve its flavor and clarity. Carbonation is the process of adding carbon dioxide to the beer to create a bubbly texture.

The Advantages of Draught Beer

One key takeaway from this comprehensive guide to draught beer is that it is a beer style that has been around for centuries and has evolved over time in different regions, resulting in a wide variety of styles and serving methods. Draught beer is made using the same basic brewing process as other beers but is conditioned and carbonated differently to create a fresher, more flavorful, and smoother drinking experience. When serving draught beer, it is important to use the proper glassware, serve it at the right temperature, and use the correct pouring technique to create the perfect bubbly head. With its variety of styles and availability of seasonal and limited edition options, draught beer is an excellent choice for beer enthusiasts who enjoy trying new and different beers.

Freshness and Flavor

One of the main advantages of draught beer is its freshness. Because it is served directly from the cask or keg, it is typically fresher and more flavorful than beer that has been bottled or canned.

Temperature and Texture

Draught beer is also served at the optimal temperature and texture. It is usually served slightly colder than room temperature, which helps to enhance the flavor and aroma of the beer. The carbonation levels are also carefully controlled to create a smooth and creamy texture.

How to Serve Draught Beer

The Proper Glassware

When serving draught beer, it is important to use the proper glassware. Different styles of beer require different types of glasses, which can help to enhance the aroma and flavor of the beer.

The Right Temperature

Draught beer should be served at the proper temperature, which is usually slightly colder than room temperature. This helps to enhance the flavor and aroma of the beer and creates a refreshing drinking experience.

The Correct Pouring Technique

Finally, it is important to use the correct pouring technique when serving draught beer. This involves tilting the glass at a 45-degree angle and pouring the beer slowly down the side of the glass. This helps to create a smooth and creamy head and prevents the beer from becoming too foamy.

Variety of Styles

Another advantage of draught beer is the wide variety of styles that are available. From pale ales and stouts to lagers and IPAs, there is a draught beer to suit every taste and preference. Many breweries also offer seasonal and limited edition draught beers, which are only available for a short time each year. This makes draught beer a great choice for beer enthusiasts who enjoy trying new and different styles of beer.

FAQs – What is Draught Beer?

What is draught beer?

Draught beer is beer that is served from a keg or cask rather than from a bottle or can, as it is commonly referred to. It is typically dispensed by a tap or faucet at the bar and is served in a chilled glass or mug. Draught beer is known for its freshness and the unique taste experience it provides, making it one of the most popular forms of beer consumed across the world.

What is the difference between draught beer and bottled beer?

The main difference between draught beer and bottled beer is how they are packaged and served. Draught beer comes straight from the keg or cask and is dispensed into a glass through a tap or faucet. Bottled beer, on the other hand, is packaged in bottles or cans, and needs to be opened before being served. Generally speaking, draught beer is considered to be fresher than bottled beer as it doesn’t go through the same pasteurization and bottling processes.

Why is draught beer preferred over other forms of beer?

Draught beer is preferred over other forms of beer due to a variety of reasons. Firstly, draught beer is served at its optimal temperature and carbonation, allowing for a perfect pour every time. Secondly, since it is served in a chilled glass or mug, it provides a more refreshing taste and a superior drinking experience. Finally, some beer connoisseurs prefer draught beer because it is fresher and has not been exposed to the same level of heat and light as bottled beer.

What types of beer are available in draught form?

A wide range of beers are available in draught form, from popular lagers to craft beers and stouts. Whatever your preferences or tastes may be, there is likely a draught beer option available to suit your palate. From Guinness to Heineken, Stella Artois to local microbrews, there is a wide range of options to try and experiment with.

Is draught beer more expensive than bottled beer?

Generally speaking, draught beer is slightly more expensive than bottled beer, largely because it requires special equipment to dispense and serve. However, the cost difference is often offset by the superior quality and taste of the beer. And while bottled beer may be cheaper, it doesn’t offer the same level of freshness or drinking experience as draft beer. Ultimately, the decision to choose draught over bottled beer comes down to individual preference and budget.