A technique originally developed to replicate the creaminess of cask-conditioned ale, nitrogenated (nitro) beer has the potential to elevate the beer drinker’s experience when properly applied. The Brewers Association Draught Beer Quality Subcommittee recently published A Simple Guide to Serving Better Nitrogenated Beer to provide best practice guidance to ensure quality and safety when handling nitro beer.

To the nitro novice, the task of serving this type of beer may seem simple on the surface, but there are several key elements worth the extra attention, including dialing in the right gas blend, managing serving pressure, and utilizing specialized equipment. This resource provides tips for keeping the right amount of nitrogen in beer throughout draught dispense and pouring the perfect pint. Unique safety considerations are also discussed, such as working with higher rated pressure vessels often required for nitrogenizing and serving nitro beer. For techniques to improve your nitro pour, review this short resource and visit the Draught Beer Quality Manual for more detailed information.

The Brewers Association Draught Beer Quality Subcommittee is comprised of 13 industry volunteers dedicated to helping brewers and retailers to preserve the flavor and aroma of draught beer as intended by the brewer. Additional fact sheets and resources can be downloaded from the Draught Beer Resource Hub free of charge and printed or reproduced as needed.