Beer Service and Cellar Management Flashcards

What CO2 pressure range is typically used to maintain a properly carbonated keg of American lager at 38°F?

Answer: 10–14 PSI

At 38°F, most American lagers (2.5–2.7 volumes CO2) require 10–14 PSI of serving pressure to maintain carbonation without over- or under-carbonating.

Beer lines that are too long or have too little resistance will cause:

Answer: Foamy, over-carbonated pours

If there is insufficient line resistance (lines too short or large diameter), beer flows too quickly and pressure drops cause CO2 to come out of solution, resulting in excessive foaming.

How often should draft beer lines be cleaned according to the Brewers Association guidelines?

Answer: At least every two weeks

The Brewers Association recommends cleaning draft lines with caustic or enzyme cleaner at least every two weeks to prevent biofilm, yeast, and bacteria buildup that can cause off-flavors.

What is the purpose of a mixed gas (beer gas) blend such as 70% N2 / 30% CO2?

Answer: To serve stouts and nitro beers at low carbonation with a creamy, cascading head

Nitrogen is nearly insoluble in beer and provides serving pressure without over-carbonating, allowing stouts and nitro beers to be served at the low carbonation levels needed for their creamy, cascading pour.

A 'bright tank' in a brewery is used for:

Answer: Final conditioning, carbonation, and storage before packaging or service

A bright tank (also called a serving tank or brite tank) receives filtered beer from the fermenter for final carbonation adjustment, clarification, and holding before packaging.

When tapping a new keg, what is the first step a cellarman should take?

Answer: Allow the keg to rest at cellar temperature for at least 24 hours before tapping

Kegs should be allowed to rest undisturbed at serving temperature for at least 24 hours after transport to allow CO2 to re-dissolve and any agitation-induced foam to settle.