I ran a search and didn't find a direct hit, so I apologize if my search syntax is to blame. What are the recommendations for the brewery/beer store with the best selection of kegs for private consumption in the near west burbs? I've been tasked with the beer duty for our 4th of July block party, so I'm kicking around the idea of keg beer to minimize waste and make it easier on people...and let's face it...I don't need the excess Leine's Shandys & Stellas that people will undoubtedly bring. (Takes off beer snob hat for a moment) What that said, I am looking for something that will please the masses and the beer geeks in the crowd. So for anyone who has experience in the area, please share. I've got a pretty good line from my local store, but would be remiss if I didn't do some thorough research before pulling the trigger. A 1/4 barrel might work as they will be some other libations, but a 1/2 and some time to finish over the weekend isn't a bad goal either. Thanks.
Binnys has good keg lists, you just need to ask and almost any brewery will sell you a keg. To please everyone I would recommend a craft pilsner such as rev pils. Kegs are fun and all, and good and theory, but in my experience it's not worth hassle. Although they should be cheaper (no bottling, canning, packaging) they simply aren't. In fact craft kegs are usually more expensive per ounce then buying by the case. If you are not useing a kegerator that is already dialed in and can get the perfect temperature for the type of beer and correct line length, then you are going to deal with too much foam . If you truly want to please everyone get some cases of bud/miller/Coors, (some wont be pleased without this ), some 15 packs of founders and goose island, and some cases of revolution and half acre, & stash a couple of special 4 packs away. All that said- your party ain't shit if you don't got a keg. If you can manage to pull off a keg properly it's the best but I'm about 1 for 3. Protip if you do get a keg, don't tell anyone what it is and let them guess all night.
Speaking as a retailer, you’d have to ask what’s available from their distributors. Retailers aren’t sitting on craft kegs, it’s mainly BMC and the like which sell regularly.
Binny's carries a good standard stock and will special order for you. I used them a lot. Didn't have as much luck with Sals as they wouldn't let me know when my keg was in and at least twice lost my order.
Bottle shops, specially slashies are your best play. Places like open bottle, beer cellar, beer temple, several other bottle shop/taprooms can help you. Give them a week advance and they have a chance to custom order whatever you want.
