How long should cask beer be consumed after it is tapped?

Cask beer, which is also known as real ale, is traditionally served from a barrel and is naturally carbonated through the secondary fermentation process that occurs within the cask itself. Once the cask is tapped, air begins to interact with the beer, which can lead to oxidation and changes in flavor, aroma, and overall quality.

The correct answer pertains to how the beer should be consumed within a few days due to air exposure. This timeframe allows the beer to maintain its intended freshness and quality, as the integrity of the flavors can quickly decline once the cask is opened. While cask beer can sometimes last longer than a few days, its optimal condition is typically best within this time frame to ensure that drinkers enjoy the fresh character that is characteristic of cask ales.

This question highlights the importance of understanding the nature of cask conditioning and the effects of oxygenation on beer, which is especially relevant for those working in beer service or production.