Yo, got a new Barq's BIB coming in. What's your go-to whiskey pairing for a quick root beer cocktail?+

Look, Barq's has that classic kick. For a quick cocktail, you can't go wrong with a decent bourbon or a spiced rum. The vanilla and spice notes in the Barq's really play well with those. A Canadian rye whiskey also works if you want something with a bit more bite. Just keep it simple, good ice, maybe a cherry.

Running an outdoor event this summer, thinking about getting this 20L Barq's. Is it a pain to set up on a mobile bar fountain?+

Nah, not really a pain. If you've got a standard portable fountain system, these 20L BIBs hook up pretty easy. Make sure your lines are clean, grab the right connector, and you're good. The volume is solid for events, means fewer swaps during a rush. Just keep it out of direct sun to keep it cool.

How long does a Barq's 20L BIB typically last for you guys in a moderately busy bar?+

Depends on your volume, obviously. For a moderately busy place that sells a good amount of root beer floats and a few cocktails, a 20L Barq's BIB can easily last a week, maybe two. If you're running it primarily as a standard soft drink, it'll move faster. Keep an eye on your usage trends. It's a lot of servings.

Any good non-alcoholic mixes you do with Barq's postmix for the sober crowd?+

For the sober crowd, Barq's is gold. Besides the standard float, try it with muddled mint and a squeeze of fresh lime for a "Root Beer Mojito" vibe. A splash of orange juice or even some Angostura bitters can make it interesting. Just simple stuff that doesn't need a lot of extra syrups.

What's the trick to getting really good carbonation with Barq's BIB in an old fountain machine?+

The trick with an older machine and Barq's BIB is usually your CO2 pressure and water chiller. Make sure your CO2 tank isn't low and pressure is dialed in correctly. And *critically*, your water needs to be consistently cold. If the water's warm, it won't hold carbonation, no matter how good the syrup is. Check your chiller unit.

I'm thinking of adding a signature root beer cocktail. What kind of liqueurs or infusions pair well with Barq's strong flavor?+

Barq's has that unique bite. For signature cocktails, think about what enhances its vanilla and spice. Coffee liqueur, like Kahlua, makes a "Dirty Root Beer." A touch of Cynar or another amaro can add depth. Or infuse a rum with some star anise or cinnamon for a real kick. Don't be afraid to try some smoky elements too, like a peated Scotch float.

What's the real benefit of Bag-In-Box for our bar's operations versus individual bottles of root beer?+

The real benefit of Bag-In-Box, especially with the 20L Barq's, is space and labour. You save a ton of fridge space, don't have to haul cases of bottles, and your garbage/recycling bins aren't overflowing with glass or plastic. Plus, consistent pour, every time. It just streamlines service for your bartenders.

Any tips for keeping the Barq's root beer lines clean in a high-volume setup?+

Keeping the lines clean in a high-volume setup with Barq's is key for taste. You need a regular cleaning schedule, ideally weekly. Use an approved beverage line cleaner, flush thoroughly with water, and make sure your staff actually does it. If you slack, you'll get off-flavours and inconsistent pours, especially with a sugary product like root beer.

What makes Barq's Root Beer Bag-In-Box a good choice for bar service?+

Barq's Root Beer Bag-In-Box is an excellent choice for bars because its 20L volume and postmix format deliver consistent, classic root beer flavour on demand. The Bag-In-Box system is designed for efficiency, ensuring fresh taste without the need for individual bottles, which speeds up service during busy shifts. It also simplifies inventory management and reduces waste compared to traditional bottled soft drinks, making it a practical solution for high-volume operations. This system means you always have fresh, carbonated root beer ready for floats, cocktails, or as a standalone drink.

How do bartenders typically use Barq's Root Beer Postmix in cocktails?+

Bartenders typically use Barq's Root Beer Postmix as a base or an extender in a variety of cocktails and mocktails. Its robust, spiced flavour, with hints of vanilla, pairs well with dark spirits like whiskey or bourbon in a 'Root Beer Old Fashioned' or a 'Spiced Rum & Root Beer.' For lighter options, it can be combined with gin and lemon juice, or used in non-alcoholic creations like a 'Virgin Root Beer Mojito.' The consistent carbonation from the BIB system helps maintain the drink's effervescence.