Why Tilt Cask Ales?

For the unfamiliar, the idea of tilting a beer cask may well be a mystery. Why not simply rack (or 'stillage') a cask at a predetermined angle and leave it? We will leave the detailed explanations to the breweries and Campaign for Real Ale. In brief, a combination of cask design, method of maturation and the fact that cask ale is a 'live' product, all dictate the need to tilt the cask during the period of beer dispense.

This practice, traditionally undertaken by a dedicated cellar manager, requires time, skill and a steady hand. One slip up can result in not only disturbed (and most likely ruined) beer and lost profits, but also poses a safety hazard.

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How Not To Tilt Cask Ales?