When it comes to keeping your growler of beer fresh and carbonated, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. Follow these tips to ensure your beer stays crisp and maintains its carbonation even after opening.
1. Invest in an Airtight Container
The first step in preventing your growler from going flat is to store it in an airtight container. This will help minimize the amount of oxygen that comes into contact with the beer, which can cause it to lose its carbonation more quickly. Look for a growler with a sturdy seal or consider using a CO2 pressurized growler system to maintain freshness.
2. Keep it Cold
Temperature plays a crucial role in preserving carbonation. Beer stored at higher temperatures accelerates the release of CO2, leading to flatness. To keep your growler fresh, store it in a cool place, such as a refrigerator or a dedicated beer cooler. Aim to keep the beer between 38-45°F (3-7°C) to maintain optimal carbonation levels.
3. Minimize Exposure to Oxygen
Oxygen is the enemy when it comes to preserving carbonation in beer. Avoid excessive pouring or opening the growler unnecessarily, as each time it’s exposed to oxygen, it accelerates the loss of CO2. When pouring, use a gentle and controlled technique to minimize agitation and oxidation.
4. Drink it Fresh
While some beers can age gracefully, growlers are best consumed as fresh as possible to enjoy maximum carbonation. Ideally, consume the contents within a week or, at most, two weeks from the time of purchase. As time passes, the beer will naturally lose its carbonation, even under perfect storage conditions.
5. Handle With Care
Rough handling can cause the beer to agitate and release CO2, resulting in a flat taste. Secure the growler and avoid excessive shaking or jostling during transportation or storage. Treat it like the delicate liquid it is to maintain the desired carbonation levels.
6. Keep the Headspace Minimal
The headspace in a growler refers to the air-filled area between the beer and the cap. To reduce the chances of your beer going flat, consider using a smaller growler that accommodates the volume of beer you plan to store. A smaller headspace means less available oxygen and a better chance of preserving the carbonation.
7. Utilize Carbonation Caps
Another option to maintain carbonation in your growler is to use carbonation caps. These caps allow you to inject CO2 into the growler, effectively replenishing any lost carbonation. Simply attach the cap, inject CO2, and give it a gentle shake to distribute the gas throughout the beer.
8. Consider Nitrogen Tap Systems
If you’re a true lover of draught beer and want to ensure your growler stays carbonated for an extended period, consider investing in a nitrogen tap system. Nitrogen-infused beers tend to retain their carbonation for a longer time, providing a creamy and smooth drinking experience.
9. Take Note of Brewery Recommendations
Every brewery has its own guidelines for the optimal storage and consumption of their beer. Some may recommend consuming the entire growler within a specific timeframe, while others may suggest storing it at a particular temperature. Pay attention to any recommendations provided by the brewery to get the most out of your growler.
10. Recap the Growler Tightly
After each pour or when you’re finished enjoying your beer, make sure to recap the growler tightly. A loose or poorly sealed cap could allow CO2 to escape, leading to loss of carbonation. Give it an extra twist to ensure a secure seal and maintain the freshness of the remaining beer.
11. Avoid Direct Sunlight
Exposing your growler to direct sunlight can generate heat and negatively impact the beer’s carbonation. UV rays can interact with compounds in the beer, altering its flavor and hastening the release of CO2. Always store your growler in a shaded area away from direct sunlight to preserve its taste.
12. Experiment with Natural Carbonation
If you enjoy a bit of DIY experimentation, you can try natural carbonation methods. This involves adding sugar or priming tablets to the beer before sealing the growler. The residual yeast in the beer will consume the added sugar, producing CO2 and naturally carbonating the beer over time.
