freepour

Freepour is a term commonly used in the context of craft brewing and homebrewing to describe a method of transferring beer from one container to another without the use of a pump or siphon. This technique relies on gravity to move the liquid, typically by pouring beer from a fermenter or carboy into a keg or secondary vessel. The process is often employed during the final stages of brewing, such as transferring beer for secondary fermentation, conditioning, or packaging.

The freepour method is favored for its simplicity and lack of reliance on specialized equipment. It involves carefully tilting the source container and allowing the beer to flow out through a spigot or tap, while minimizing exposure to oxygen. Proper technique is essential to avoid splashing, which can introduce oxygen and spoil the beer. Brewers often use a freepour tube—a flexible, narrow tube attached to the spigot—to control the flow rate and reduce turbulence.

While freepour is straightforward, it requires practice to master, particularly when dealing with larger volumes or steep containers. Some brewers combine it with other techniques, such as racking candy or using a racking cane, to further refine the process. Despite its simplicity, freepour remains a staple in both small-scale and professional brewing operations due to its efficiency and minimal equipment requirements.