Beverage dispenser with enhanced functionality

A system for beverage dispensing comprising:

• a dispenser shaped for attachment to a beverage container;
• a mechanical interface for coupling the dispenser to the beverage container;
• a data reader configured to capture data from the beverage container attached to the dispenser;
• a user interface including a display disposed on an exterior of the dispenser;
• and
• a processor within the dispenser, the processor configured to receive information about the beverage from the data reader and to present corresponding information in the display.

A system for beverage dispensing comprising:

• a dispenser including a spout and a receptacle, the receptacle configured to removably and replaceably retain a beverage cartridge in an active engagement providing a fluid path to pour a fluid from the beverage cartridge through the spout;
• a cartridge interface disposed within the dispenser and configured to receive and mechanically retain the beverage cartridge in the active engagement with the dispenser, the cartridge interface further including a data reader configured to read information from the beverage cartridge about a beverage in the beverage cartridge;
• a processor within the dispenser, the processor configured to receive information about the beverage from the data reader;
• and
• a network interface configured to couple the processor in a communicating relationship with a remote resource for at least one of monitoring fluid consumption from the beverage cartridge, recommending an additional beverage for purchase, and performing a transaction to purchase a new beverage.