If you’re a fan of dark, creamy beers like stouts and porters, having a good quality stout faucet can make all the difference when serving them from your kegerator or keezer.
Not all faucets are created equal, and finding the right one can enhance your drinking experience and ensure your beer is served just the way it was meant to be.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best stout faucets available on the market and discuss what features you should be looking for when choosing one.
Why Use a Stout Faucet?
Stouts and other similar beers have a unique texture and mouthfeel that can be difficult to achieve using a standard faucet.
The creamy, smooth finish that is characteristic of these beers is due to the use of nitrogen gas rather than carbon dioxide when dispensing them.
Stout faucets are specifically designed to accommodate nitrogen gas, resulting in a velvety smooth pour that can’t be achieved with a regular faucet.
Features to Consider
When choosing a stout faucet, there are a few features you should keep in mind to ensure you get the best possible experience:
Material
The material of the faucet is an important consideration, as it can affect the taste of the beer.
Stainless steel is a popular choice for faucets as it is easy to clean and doesn’t impart any off-flavors. Brass is also a good option, but it can tarnish over time and may require more maintenance.
Restrictor Plate
Some stout faucets come with a restrictor plate, which is a small metal disc that is inserted into the faucet to control the flow of the beer.
This can be helpful for achieving the perfect pour, but some beer enthusiasts prefer to remove the restrictor plate for a more unobstructed flow.
Spout Design
The spout of the faucet can also affect the pour, with some designs allowing for a more controlled flow that can minimize excess foam.
Look for a spout that is specifically designed for stout beer, with a slightly curved shape that encourages a smooth pour.
Ease of Cleaning
Finally, it’s important to choose a faucet that is easy to clean and maintain.
Look for a design that can be disassembled easily for cleaning, with minimal hard-to-reach areas where bacteria can accumulate.
Best Stout Faucets
Now that we know what to look for, let’s take a look at some of the best stout faucets on the market:
1. Perlick 63927 Faucet
The Perlick 63927 Faucet is a top-of-the-line choice for those who want the best possible pour quality.
It features a stainless steel construction and a forward-sealing design that helps prevent the faucet from sticking. The flow control lever allows for precise pour control, and the smooth bore spout ensures a velvety smooth pour.
2. Intertap Stainless Steel Stout Faucet
The Intertap Stainless Steel Stout Faucet is a versatile option that can accommodate a range of beer styles.
It features a stainless steel construction, a removable restrictor plate, and a spring-loaded lever that can be easily adjusted to control the flow. The forward-sealing design helps prevent the faucet from sticking and makes it easy to clean.
3. Kegco Stout Faucet
The Kegco Stout Faucet is a budget-friendly option that still delivers a high-quality pour.
It features a brass construction, a removable restrictor plate, and a slightly curved spout that encourages a smooth pour. The faucet can be easily disassembled for cleaning and maintenance.
4. Micro Matic 741SS Stout Faucet
The Micro Matic 741SS Stout Faucet is a durable and reliable option for dispensing stout beers.
It features a stainless steel construction and a removable restrictor plate for easy flow control. The smooth bore spout ensures a smooth and creamy pour, and the forward-sealing design helps prevent the faucet from sticking.
5. Stout Beer Faucet by Krome Dispense
The Stout Beer Faucet by Krome Dispense is a solid option for those on a budget.
It features a chrome-plated brass construction, a removable restrictor plate, and a smooth bore spout for a smooth pour. The faucet can be easily disassembled for cleaning and maintenance.
Investing in a quality stout faucet is essential for any beer enthusiast who enjoys creamy, smooth stouts and porters.
Final Thoughts
When choosing a faucet, look for a design that is easy to clean and maintain, with a spout and restrictor plate that allows for a smooth pour.
The Perlick 63927 Faucet and Intertap Stainless Steel Stout Faucet are both excellent choices for those looking for a high-quality, versatile faucet.
The Kegco Stout Faucet and Stout Beer Faucet by Krome Dispense are both more budget-friendly options that still deliver a solid pour.
FAQs
- Can I use a standard faucet to dispense stout beer?
While it is possible to use a standard faucet to dispense stout beer, it will not provide the same smooth, creamy texture that a stout faucet can achieve.
- Do I need to use nitrogen gas with a stout faucet?
Yes, nitrogen gas is necessary to achieve the creamy, smooth texture that is characteristic of stout beers.
- How often should I clean my stout faucet?
It is recommended to clean your stout faucet after each keg is emptied to prevent any buildup of bacteria or mold.
- Can I use a stout faucet to dispense other types of beer?
Yes, stout faucets can be used to dispense other types of beer as well, but they may not provide the same pour quality as they do with stout beer.
- Can I install a stout faucet on my existing kegerator or keezer?
Yes, stout faucets can be installed on most kegerators and keezers with a little bit of modification. It is recommended to consult with a professional if you are unsure how to do it yourself.
