Most people will never need a dedicated beer fridge. They’re expensive, excessive and use up both space and energy. But a beer fridge has its practical applications, too. For starters, it allows a beer collector to regulate the temperature that beer is temporarily stored and served at. Most ales should be kept slightly lower than room temperature, or about 50-55 degrees Fahrenheit; lagers, meanwhile, between 45-50. Store any higher than these averages, and beer risks going rancid. Any lower, and beer can develop what collectors call “chill haze,” which, though more of a cosmetic issue, is evidence that many beer styles should not be served ice cold.
An important note about refrigerators, however, is that they’re not just chilly — they’re dry. This can accelerate the disintegration of corks over long periods of time. If you plan to age large, corked bottles, keep them in a cellar. In fact, if you plan on aging your beer at all, keep it in a cellar. (More on aging beer here.) Utilize the fridge to more or less ready what you’d like to drink. A good rule of thumb: rotate often, drink often, be happy. Here’s what you need to build the ultimate beer fridge, including, of course, great beer.
The Fridge
True Residential Undercounter Refrigerator
True Residential 24-Inch Undercounter Refrigerator $3,000
The mack-daddy of beverage coolers, the Undercounter Refrigerator from True’s Residential line uses forced-air refrigeration that not only cools quickly, but stays at a consistent temperature. Its glass door is UV-tinted and UL-approved for outdoor use (should you choose to place it next to the grill). Also available with a stainless-steel door, the 24 x 34 inch fridge can comfortably house over 200 cans of beer, and also boasts 14 different LED color options.
The Beer
Classic Styles to Stock
Heady Topper by The Alchemist Learn More
Celebrator Doppelbock by Ayinger Learn More
Bell’s Brewery Two Hearted Ale by Bell’s Brewery Learn More
Tank 7 Farmhouse Ale by Boulevard Brewing Co. Learn More
Blanche De Bruxelles by Brasserie Lefèbvre Learn More
Orval Trappist Ale by Brasserie d’Orval S.A. Learn More
Bourbon Barrel Aged Plead The 5th Imperial Stout by Dark Horse Brewing Co. Learn More
Jai Alai by Cigar City Brewing Learn More
Double Jack IPA by Firestone Walker Brewing Company Learn More
All Day IPA by Founder’s Learn More
Bourbon County Brand Stout by Goose Island Brewing Company Learn More
Table Beer by The Kernel Learn More
Wit Fit by Mikkeller Learn More
Mama’s Little Yella Pils by Oskar Blues Brewery Learn More
BOMB! by Prairie Artisan Ales Learn More
Dead Guy Ale by Rogue Ales Learn More
Jammer by Sixpoint Brewery Learn More
La Fin du Monde by Unibroue Learn More
White Thai by Westbrook Brewing Company Learn More
The Details
Snacks and Accessories
Veritas Beer Glass by Riedel $69
Olive Wood Coasters by Be-Home $19
Issue Three by Pallet $15
Wicked Okra by Wickles $12
Hot Chili Spears by Gordy’s $10
Bottle Opener and Resealer by Westmark $9
Freezer and Refrigerator Utility Thermometer by Taylor $7
Salted Peanuts by Englewood $6
Pepperettes by Olympia Provisions $5
