How to Use a Cocktail Keg: A Step-by-Step Guide for First-Timers

It's easier than you think. We promise.

So you've got a Gloria Keg. First of all  great decision. Second of all, we know that the first time can feel a little unfamiliar. CO2, pressure gauges, ball locks... it looks more complicated than it is.

Here's the truth: using a cocktail keg is genuinely simple. Once you've done it once, you'll wonder how you ever hosted a party without it. This guide walks you through everything from first fill to first pour.

What You'll Need

Your Gloria Keg comes with everything you need to get started  the pour spout assembly with locking pin, the lid with pressure release valve, the CO2 regulator, a drip mat, and a chalk marker to label your contents right on the keg. As Gloria Keg puts it: "Everything you need but the drink."

The 7L Gloria uses 16g threaded CO2 cartridges  three are included, and one cartridge pressurises and dispenses one full keg. The Big G 10L uses a 500g CO2 canister, which lasts around 30 full kegs. Replacement cartridges are available in the shop. One important note: only use CO2  no nitrogen.

Step 1: Choose Your Recipe and Mix

Start by picking your recipe. If you're new to batch cocktails, something straightforward and crowd-pleasing is the way to go. A Paloma or a Moscow Mule are both excellent first-timer options  simple ingredients, great flavour, and loved by almost everyone.

Add your ingredients in the order listed in the recipe. This matters  carbonated ingredients always go in last, poured in slowly and gently to preserve the bubbles. Once everything is in, place the cover on and gently roll or shake the keg to mix everything together. Make sure the tapper is locked or removed before you mix.

One thing to keep in mind: don't add thick liquids, herbs, seeds, or anything with a lot of pulp. These will clog Gloria's ¼" pickup tube. Check the FAQ for the full list of what to avoid.

Step 2: Attach the CO2 and Pressurise

Attach the regulator assembly to the IN post and the pour spout assembly to the OUT post  the posts are labelled right on the keg between the lid and the posts, so you can't miss them. Getting these the wrong way around is the most common first-timer mistake, so double check before you go further.

Insert your CO2 cartridge and bring the pressure up to 5–7 psi. That's the operating sweet spot for a smooth pour and to keep your drink carbonated and fresh. If the pressure climbs too high  especially with carbonated beverages  pull up on the pressure release valve ring on the lid to bring it back down.

Step 3: Chill It Down

Gloria Keg is designed to keep your cocktail pressurised and fresh, not to cool it. Pre-chill your ingredients before filling, and once filled and sealed, place the keg in the refrigerator or a cooler until your guests arrive. Drinks are intended to be poured over ice in the glass.

Step 4: Pour and Enjoy

When your guests arrive, your keg is ready. Open the tap and pour. That's really all there is to it.

If the keg has been sitting for a day or two, give it a gentle shake before the first pour  some recipes can settle slightly over time. Check the pressure gauge and top it back up to 5–7 psi if needed before you start serving.

One full 7L Gloria pours up to 39 servings at 6oz each. The Big G 10L pours up to 56 servings. Plan accordingly.

Step 5: Clean Up Properly

When the party's over, rinse Gloria out thoroughly with hot water and 1 tablespoon of baking soda. Let it soak for 10 minutes, dump, rinse, and allow it to fully air dry. Avoid soaps, detergents, and chemicals  they can contaminate your next batch. Wash the lid and pour spout assembly separately with hot, soapy water and rinse thoroughly.

The FAQ page has the full cleaning instructions if you want every detail.

And that's it. Fill it, seal it, chill it, pour it. Gloria Keg is built to be used, enjoyed, and shown off at every party you throw.

Born to pour, built for fun. Go Gloria.