Mini-barrels mean a quality pint — anywhere

April 26, 2007: Cellarmandirect.com is making locally-brewed craft beers and ciders available in cask-conditioned anywhere in the UK.

The service offers small breweries the opprtunity to sell high-quality cask-conditioned beer and cider nationwide in mini-barrels.

Five-litre mini barrels, with built-in taps, known as nine pinters, ensure the beer and cider is delivered in the best possible condition.

The orders are made by logging onto www.cellarmandirect.com. The firm dispatchesbeer or cider fresh from each brewery. A specialist courier company is used for deliveries.

Cellarmandirect.com was set up by David Arthur and Bob Hogg, who recognised the growing demand for quality beer and cider from the smaller breweries.

“The breweries were only going to be interested if the quality was not compromised," said David. "Our packaging and delivery methods mean the consumer is getting cask-conditioned ale and cider in their own homes.

“There is so much to discover, and it is an honour to bring the passion invested in these beers and ciders to so many more people,” he added.

The first beers and ciders on the site include products from Mordue Brewery from Wallsend, Tyne & Wear, Wapping Beers from Liverpool, Inveralmond Brewery from Perth, Scotland, and Peelwalls Cider from the Borders.

David and Bob have more than 20 years combined experience in the drinks industry. They previously worked together at a senior level for Glenmorangie, promoting the benefits of quality malt whisky. Bob worked at a senior level in export sales for Scottish & Newcastle.

Prices start from £19.99.