I actually found that the pop-it valve for my Co2 was off-center. Corrected the issue and let it carbonate for a week. Wouldn't you know it, it turned-out awesome! My neighbors think it's the best one yet. No cardboard smell or taste. I think I got lucky this time.
Yeah, that's kinda what I was thinking. Was just wondering if there was a way to save the 5 gallons, or if I needed to hold a memorial for the AK-47. Thanks for the reply.
Been homebrewing for about 4 years, corny kegging for 2. I recently had a batch that appeared to go through the entire process fine. I put it in the keg, let it carbonate, and tried to pour a pint. The flow was really slow and I detected the odor/taste of what seemed like wet cardboard. Is...