Using casks

[screwybrewy]

Hi folks,

I’m thinking of getting a coupel of pub-style casks (pin – 4.5 gl size) to serve my beer at parties etc. Does anyone have a guide to filling/ sealing / opening them or any general tips for their use?

Cheers.

[Grindcrusher]

I'm in the same process, just got myself all the kit and yesterday brewed what will be my first cask ale.

I would recommend reading the CAMRA published book on Cellarmanship. It covers the info you need. You can also find good info on this website : http://www.cask-ale.co.uk

[SiHoltye]

Will only offer what I do and that's ferment to final gravity then chill the fermenter at 5 degs C for two days allowing some yeast to drop. If wanting super bright beer I add auxiliary finings before chilling down.
Then rack into sanitised cask with isinglass in it and fill the cask til overflow. Then seal and store at cellar temp. The temp change creates a pressure that gets into the beer and gives carbonation to a level I like my English ales at. Just like a pint from the pub. Mmmmm I fancy a pint now.

[Jim]

It's certainly worth having a skim through this sticky topic as well.