Abstract: Apparatus (10) for dispensing a potable beverage (B) stored in a container (K). A tap (16) is attached to the container and provides a discharge passage (18) for the beverage. A valve (20) opens and close the passage. A valve control unit (32) operates the valve. The container is a pressurized container and the valve control unit also utilizes this source (G) of pressure to operate the valve. A controller (60) activates the valve control unit. The controller includes a sensor (64) for first sensing when a receptacle is positioned adjacent the tap, to activate the valve control unit, for beverage to be dispensed into the receptacle. The controller subsequently senses when the receptacle has been withdrawn to deactivate the valve control unit and stop dispensing of the beverage. Dispensing is also automatically stopped if the receptacle is left in place for a preselected amount of time. The apparatus is available in a "kit" form for retrofitting existing dispensers.