In The Blue Corner: Cask Widge
Improved Flow Rate: Cask widge sets have a larger surface area and more holes than cask spears, which allows for a better flow rate and a smoother pour.
Reduced Oxygenation: Cask widge sets are designed to reduce the amount of oxygen that enters the cask during dispensing. This can help to preserve the flavor and aroma of the beer for longer, resulting in a better-tasting pint.
Easy to Clean: Cask widge sets are also easier to clean than cask spears. The design of the widge set makes it easy to remove and clean, which can help to prevent contamination and improve the quality of the beer.
Environmentally Friendly: Cask widge sets are typically made from biodegradable materials, such as cornstarch, which makes them more environmentally friendly than cask spears.
In The Red Corner: Cask Spear / Extractor Rod
Lower Cost: Cask spears are generally less expensive than cask widge sets, which can be a consideration for smaller breweries or those on a tight budget.
Easier to Install: Cask spears can be easier to install than cask widge sets, which may be beneficial for breweries with less experience or expertise in cask ale dispense.
Customization: Cask spears can be customized to fit specific cask sizes and shapes, which can be beneficial for breweries with unique cask configurations.
Space Limitations: Cask spears can be more space-efficient than cask widge sets, which may be an advantage in small cellars or bars with limited space.
We Go To The Judges Scorecards:
By split decision, your winner is Cask Widge!
It's important to note that while cask spears may have some advantages over cask widge sets in certain situations, they are generally not as highly regarded by cask ale enthusiasts due to the potential for increased oxygenation and reduced beer quality. Ultimately, the decision to use a cask widge set or cask spear will depend on the specific needs and priorities of the brewery or bar.