Cocktail dispenser from keg to tap
Cocktail kegs are stainless steel containers designed to store and keep premixed cocktails in optimal conditions. These kegs are corrosion‑resistant and built to withstand the pressure required to maintain proper carbonation, if the cocktail needs to be carbonated.
The fittings and tubing are essential for transporting cocktails from the keg to the dispensing tap. These lines must be made of suitable materials, such as stainless steel or food‑grade plastic tubing, to avoid contamination and ensure cocktail quality.
Pressurisation system: Depending on the cocktail, a pressurisation system may be required to maintain carbonation and prevent oxidation. CO2 or a blend of CO2 and nitrogen is generally used to pressurise cocktails that require it. The pressurisation system includes a pressure regulator and a gas cylinder, which allow you to adjust and maintain the correct pressure in the keg.
The dispensing tap is the device that allows cocktails to be served directly to the customer. It’s important to use a tap specifically for cocktails, as these taps are designed to properly handle the unique characteristics of cocktails and maintain their quality during dispensing.
To keep cocktails at the right temperature during dispensing, a refrigeration system is required. This may include a keg fridge, an in‑line liquid chiller or an ice bank that chills the lines and tap.
It’s essential to carry out regular maintenance on cocktail dispensing equipment, including cleaning and sanitising the lines and taps, as well as checking fittings and seals. Proper maintenance ensures the quality and safety of the cocktails served.
Cocktails on tap
Cocktails are mixtures of spirits and other ingredients, offering a wide range of flavours and presentations.
Cocktails on tap are premixed drinks stored in kegs or bag‑in‑box containers and served through a chilled system, ensuring consistent quality and flavour. This option is popular in bars, restaurants and events for its efficiency and consistency.
Advantages and benefits of cocktail dispensers on tap for hospitality
1. Variety of options: Column, countertop and wall‑mounted dispensers offer versatility to suit different types of venues.
2. Efficiency and speed: They streamline the cocktail‑serving process, enabling better customer service and a more positive experience.
3. Consistency and quality: Storing premixed cocktails ensures consistent flavour and quality in every drink served.
4. Portion control and waste reduction: They help serve accurate measures, reducing waste of ingredients and drinks.
5. Range of offerings: They allow you to offer a wide variety of cocktails, from classics to signature creations, helping venues stand out in the market.
6. Temperature control: Cooling systems ensure cocktails are always served chilled and delicious.
7. Aesthetics and modern appeal: They enhance the look and presentation of the venue, contributing to an attractive experience for customers.
Installing and setting up a cocktail on tap dispensing system
A cocktail on tap dispensing system stores and serves premixed cocktails from a keg or bag‑in‑box container through a tap, offering efficiency and consistent quality.
The cocktails are prepared in advance, kept in refrigerated containers and pressurised with inert gas. The lines connect the container to the tap, allowing the cocktail to flow and be served directly into the customer’s glass.
To install it, you must plan the location, purchase the appropriate equipment and hire a professional or follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Then fill the containers, adjust the pressure and carry out regular maintenance to ensure the quality of the cocktails served. This way, you can offer high‑quality cocktails efficiently in your venue.
Cocktail dispensing from keg to tap is a method of serving pre-mixed cocktails stored in kegs, directly through taps. This approach allows for fast, consistent cocktail dispensing in bars, restaurants and events, resulting in an improved customer experience and greater efficiency in drink preparation.
The key components in a cocktail dispensing system from keg to tap include the cocktail keg, the appropriate fittings and tubing, a pressurization system (usually using CO2 or a CO2 and nitrogen mix), and the dispensing tap.
Cocktail dispensing from keg to tap offers several advantages, such as greater speed and efficiency in drink preparation, improved consistency in cocktail quality and flavor, and the ability to serve large volumes of cocktails in a short time, which is ideal for events and high-demand venues.
Although some standard beer taps can work for dispensing cocktails from keg to tap, it is advisable to use taps specifically designed for cocktails. These taps are built to properly handle the unique characteristics of cocktails, such as viscosity and sugar content, and to maintain their quality during dispensing.
Generally, CO2 or a mixture of CO2 and nitrogen is used to pressurize cocktails in a dispensing system from keg to tap. These gases help maintain the proper carbonation in carbonated cocktails and prevent oxidation of the ingredients.
As with any dispensing system, it is important to carry out regular maintenance, such as cleaning and disinfecting the tubing and taps, and checking the fittings and seals. It is also crucial to ensure that the pressurization system is working properly and to maintain the correct pressure for the type of cocktail being dispensed.
Classic cocktails: Traditional cocktails such as Mojito, Margarita, Piña Colada, Cosmopolitan, Gin & Tonic and Aperol Spritz are popular on tap due to their constant demand and worldwide recognition.
Signature cocktails: Venues can serve signature cocktails on tap, offering exclusive, unique creations developed by professional mixologists. These cocktails can reflect the identity and concept of the bar or restaurant.
Wine-based cocktails: Cocktails that use wine as the main ingredient, such as Tinto de Verano, Sangria, Mimosa or Bellini, can be served on tap, capitalizing on the popularity of these drink styles and expanding the wine offering.
Alcohol-free cocktails: The growing demand for alcohol-free drinks makes it possible to serve mocktails on tap, such as Virgin Piña Colada, Virgin Mojito or Shirley Temple, providing options for customers seeking non-alcoholic alternatives.
Carbonated cocktails: Some tap systems allow you to serve carbonated cocktails, such as Moscow Mule, Paloma or Tom Collins, offering customers a refreshing, bubbly experience.
Beer-based cocktails: Cocktails that use beer as the main ingredient, such as Michelada, Black Velvet or Snakebite, can be served on tap to attract beer lovers looking for something different.
Spirit-based cocktails: The versatility of tap systems makes it possible to serve cocktails made with a wide range of spirits and liqueurs, such as Espresso Martini, Caipirinha, Mai Tai or Negroni.