Craft vs. Draft Beer: What’s the Difference?

Are you curious about the differences between craft beer and draft beer?

Most people have heard of Budweiser and other mainstream brands. However, there is a much more comprehensive selection of beers out there. Lots of beers you’ll never see on the shelves of a store.

This article will explain the differences between craft and draft beer and tell you a bit about what each is. So, keep reading to find out more!

What Is Craft Beer?

Craft beer is a beer that is in small batches, generally at a local brewery. Craft breweries use traditional brewing methods and often create unique recipes ranging from sweet and fruity to full-bodied and hoppy.

This beer is often higher in alcohol, bolder in flavor, and more flavorful. It’s usually served through a tap system that helps keep the beer fresh and preserves its flavor.

Visiting local breweries to compare the traditional beers produced by more prominent beer makers is also essential to find the perfect beer for you!

What Is Draft Beer?

Draft beer, also known as draught beer, is a beer brewed and served from a pressurized keg. It is kept at a temperature below the desired serving point. Barrels have a short shelf life, so draft beer needs to serve closer to the source, allowing for a fresher beer experience.

The pressure to push the beer out of the barrel creates a carbonation effect, making draft beer more carbonated than bottled beer. Draft beer also has a creamy and denser head than bottles and cans.

Difference in Taste

The difference between craft and draft beer on taste is quite significant. Craft beer often has a more complex flavor due to the use of high-quality ingredients and the mixture of different grains and hops.

Craft beer usually has an expected balance of sweetness and bitterness and a hop and malt presence that can develop the aroma when you drink beer.

Draft beer often contains fewer hops and a paler color because it is quickly served via a tap. Draft beer has a lighter body and a simple flavor, as it is meant to enjoy in a quick sitting.

The two beers have different tastes due to their manufacturing and fermentation processes, so it is essential to find what beer works best for the individual, depending on their preference.

Process of Brewing

Craft beer and draft beer have a similar brewing process with the same ingredients. However, the difference between the two is the configuration of the brewery’s setup and equipment.

Both involve the same process, but craft beer is generally brewed in smaller batches with greater attention to detail. Craft brewers may experiment further with the ingredients and use different methods to create something unique and flavorful.

Kegs also require a certain amount of additional work on the consumer as they will need to keep them cold, pressurize them, and change out the CO2 tanks. At the same time, the bottles can store wherever and consumed whenever.

Choose a Quality Draft Beer Today

Craft beer is an artistry that enjoys high demand; however, draft beer has a quality and price benchmark that suits a broader market. Try some craft beer to understand what sets it apart and to appreciate the difference – your taste buds will thank you!

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