The mini keg is one of beer’s least utilized packaging techniques. Size and freshness work against it. Mini kegs are non-pressurized and typically will start to deteriorate in quality after 48 hours of opening. Plus it’s big as fuck, but there is the perceived notion that you’re getting more bang for your buck (though that is also debatable). Regardless, mini kegs just look cool sitting in your fridge or in the middle of your party, so the fun factor is high.
Bell’s Brewery is definitely one of the biggest product leaders of mini kegs in craft beer. For the last 13 years, Bell’s has released its Oberon Ale in mini keg format — always with a unique and interesting design. The Kalamazoo, Mich.-based brewery announced the 2018 incarnation of Oberon Ale will once again be sold in 5-liter mini kegs with a cool neon lake design that you can see below. Above, the video recounts the last 13 years of Oberon Ale mini keg designs. Enjoy both, then maybe reconsider if the mini keg fits into your product portfolio.
