The PerfectDraft home keg system is making waves among beer enthusiasts, offering a way to enjoy pub-quality beer at home. This innovative machine, previously known as the Philips PerfectDraft, allows users to pour fresh, draft beer from miniature kegs that replicate the experience of a traditional pub.
What sets the PerfectDraft apart is its ability to deliver the same beer quality typically found in bars and pubs. However, its ownership by AB InBev, the largest beer company in the world, raises ethical questions for some consumers. Known for owning popular brands like Budweiser, Stella Artois, and Corona, AB InBev has faced criticism for acquiring independent breweries and altering their production methods, often to the detriment of beer quality.
Despite these concerns, many beer lovers find the economic and practical advantages of the PerfectDraft compelling. The device starts at £329 in the UK, which includes a 6-litre keg. In the US, it is priced at $399, currently available on sale for $299. The system is designed to cool kegs down to 3°C (37°F), ensuring that the beer is served at an optimal temperature.
Cost-Effective Beer Enjoyment
The financial implications of using the PerfectDraft are particularly appealing in the current economic climate. In the UK, a pint of Stella can cost over £6, with craft beers often exceeding £8. By contrast, the PerfectDraft system allows consumers to enjoy a pint for approximately £3.14. When considering the possibility of drinking two pints a week, the math gets even more enticing.
For example, drinking 104 pints in a year would require ten kegs, with the first keg bundled in with the machine’s initial cost. With the machine’s price of £329, the total expenditure for a year would be around £626. In comparison, purchasing the same amount of pints at a local pub would cost £624—making the PerfectDraft almost cost-neutral after the first year.
In the US, where beers are more expensive, the savings are even more pronounced. The PerfectDraft system offers a unique opportunity to enjoy high-quality beer at home without the steep prices typically found in bars.
Quality and Convenience
The taste experience of using the PerfectDraft has garnered positive reviews. Many users have reported that the beer tastes fresher and cleaner than what is often served in chain pubs, which are notorious for inconsistent beer quality. The PerfectDraft not only ensures optimal serving temperature, but it also allows users to pour their own beer, providing a level of control over the pour that can enhance the drinking experience.
The first keg tested by this reviewer was Stella Artois, a popular choice in the UK. The freshness of the beer exceeded expectations, proving that home-poured beer can rival that of local establishments. Subsequent kegs, such as Spaten—a crisp Munich Helles—have also impressed, providing a refreshing option during the summer months.
While the ownership of PerfectDraft by AB InBev may deter some consumers who prefer to support independent breweries, the machine’s ability to deliver quality beer conveniently cannot be overlooked.
As beer enthusiasts navigate their preferences, the PerfectDraft offers a practical alternative for those who appreciate both the flavor and economic benefits of home brewing. The ability to enjoy a variety of styles, from IPAs to Belgian blondes, adds an element of excitement to home drinking experiences.
In conclusion, the PerfectDraft system is not just a passing trend but rather a viable solution for beer lovers seeking quality, convenience, and cost-effectiveness in their drinking habits. With the rise of home brewing and the convenience it offers, it appears that this innovative keg system is here to stay.
