The Wonderful and Exotic World of Beer Growlers
Beer tastes better on tap, right? The reasons vary but they commonly tether to pressure, temperature, light and freshness. Regardless of the reasons, growlers have changed the game by allowing beer lovers to take home craft beer from their favorite local breweries and beer stores with fill up stations. All growlers may seem the same and fundamentally they are, but life is about understanding the nuances that cater to our particular needs. This list of product reviews provides you precisely that—the key differences and information on the perfect growler for you.
GrowlerWerks uKeg 64
The uKeg 64 may be the best growler out there. It’s a 64-ounce metal, vacuum-insulated, pressurized growler with a locking tap, and is exactly what it sounds like—a tiny, portable, mini keg. It sports a pressurized cap, which vacuum seals the vessel when turned into the off position and includes room for an 8-gram carbon dioxide cartridge easily slipped into the sleeve. As you turn the cap with CO2 cartridge installed, the built-in pressure gauge reflects the appropriate pounds per square inch (PSI). GrowlerWerks even provides its customers a carbonation guide of standard PSI ideal for different styles of beer. Its vertical site glass lets you know how much beer is left and the interior embossed fill line helps make sure that you don't overfill the basin. While the price is relatively high and CO2 cartridges are an added expense (albeit not much more coming in at about $1/cartridge), the uKeg 64 is worth it.
Buy Here – $154.00
DrinkTanks Craft Growlers
DrinkTanks Craft Growlers offer a great value and come in 64 or 128-ounce options, equating to 4 or 8 pints of frothy deliciousness. Unlike most pressurized growlers that feature a standard screw-on cap, when coupled with the keg cap accessory kit, the Craft Growler has a Kegulator topper comprising a regulator, integrated CO2, tap system, pressure gauge and purge valve. That’s the long way of saying it’s just like having a real keg at your disposal. The larger basin in the 128 oz version is more conducive to homebrewers opting to experiment with 1-gallon small batches whereas the 64 oz option is more suitable for those on the go. Either way, you can’t go wrong with DrinkTanks craft growlers.
Buy Here – $119.99
Miir Growler
This super low profile 64 or 32-ounce vessel is like the ninja of beer growlers. It cuts down on weight and bulkiness by omitting a full handle, yet it doesn’t compromise quality with a gasket top and double-walled insulation. The Miir growler will keep your beer cold and carbonated for up to 24 hours. Miir also makes it a point to give back and with every purchase of their product, they donate some of the proceeds to giving projects.
Buy Here –$54.95
TrailKeg Growler
Another convertible growler that comes in a standard 64 or 128-ounce option is from TrailKeg. Like other pressurized growlers, TrailKeg relies on CO2 cartridges for dispensing beer; however, the product offers a unique add-on accessory called the “dip tube” that helps with the perfect pour. Their growlers come with a ball lock fitting device to ensure an airtight seal to avoid accidental spillage when in transit. TrailKeg’s growlers are also insulated so you can leave them on the counter and not worry about your beer staying cold unlike uninsulated options that require refrigeration between use.
Buy Here – $149.00 (64 oz) or $179.00 (128 oz)
Hydro Flask 64 oz Growler
Hydro Flask makes all of their products with nothing but top of the line materials and their 64-ounce growler is no exception. It’s constructed with their standard stainless steel, BPA-free and Phthalate-free insular basin and the not so standard Hydro Flask TempShield insulation that eliminates condensation and keeps craft brews cold for up to 24 hours. The one aspect I don’t love is how easy the outer shell dents if dropped, but like all of Hydro Flask’s products, it comes with a lifetime warranty, so you’re covered.
Buy Here – $44.95
Orange Vessel Growlers
A perfect pair for craft beer, this craftily designed growler is unique and certainly a conversation starter. Orange Vessel’s growlers sport a funky ergonomically spaced handle for the best grip possible, which makes carrying and pouring their heavy-duty growlers a more comfortable and enjoyable experience. Each 32 or 64-ounce growler is kiln-glazed stoneware and they’re customizable too.
Buy Here – $49 or $62
Stanley Easy Pour 64
The Stanley Easy Pour 64 is a great low-cost option from a company that has stood the test of time. It comes with a lifetime warranty, a vacuum sealed lid and a large, rugged handle for bearlike man paws. The Easy Pour 64-ounce growler keeps beer cold for up to 24 hours and has a wider than normal mouth for easy cleaning, but what really what makes this growler unique is that it’s 100% dishwasher safe. Anyone that has spent time handwashing growlers with hot water and baking soda will appreciate that type of convenience.
Buy Here – $55.00