Draft Recipe

Chill glassware and pitcher

Place clean beer glasses and the serving pitcher in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes prior to serving. If you need them chilled quickly, fill glasses and pitcher with ice and cold water for 5–10 minutes, then discard ice and water and dry briefly so no ice remains when pouring beer.

If you prefer a salted rim on one or more glasses, lightly wet the rim with a lemon or lime wedge then dip the rim into coarse salt. Set the prepared glasses aside on a clean surface.

Open and inspect beer

Ensure the beer is well chilled (38–45°F / 3–7°C). Remove the bottle or can from the fridge and visually check for excessive sediment or cloudiness (normal for some styles). If using kegged draft, confirm proper CO2 pressure and line cleanliness.

First pour — create the head

Hold the chilled glass at a 45° angle. Begin pouring the beer slowly down the side of the glass about an inch from the lip. Pour until the glass is about half full. This gentle pour reduces over-foaming while introducing CO2 slowly to the liquid.

Second pour — settle and finish

Straighten the glass upright and pour the remaining beer directly into the center of the glass from a height of about 2–3 inches above the rim. Aim for a final head of 1/2 to 1 inch (roughly 1–2 cm), which releases aroma and creates an attractive appearance.

If pouring from a keg with a tap, open the faucet fully in one smooth motion and close it fully in one motion to avoid foaming. Adjust CO2 pressure or temperature if excessive foam forms; lower pressure or cooler beer reduces foam.

If you salted any rims, serve those glasses to guests who requested them. Optionally garnish one or two glasses with a lemon or lime wedge on the rim for guests who prefer a citrus note.

Place the pitcher on a chilled surface or nestle it in a bowl of ice if it will sit for more than a few minutes. Serve immediately to preserve carbonation and optimal aroma.

Provide a clean coaster and napkin with each glass. Encourage guests to drink within 15–20 minutes for best taste and carbonation.