Anchor Steam Beer
Anchor Brewing
Story by:
Steve Alvarez
California Common
Year-Round
California
United States
Judges Ratings 92
Aroma: 22 / 24
Flavor: 36 / 40
Appearance: 6 / 6
Mouthfeel: 10 / 10
Overall Impression: 18 / 20
Description
Anchor Steam® Beer derives its unusual name from the 19th century when “steam” was a nickname for beer brewed on the West Coast of America under primitive conditions and without ice. While the origin of the name remains shrouded in mystery, it likely relates to the original practice of fermenting the beer on San Francisco’s rooftops in a cool climate. In lieu of ice, the foggy night air naturally cooled the fermenting beer, creating steam off the warm open pans. Once a nickname for any Californian or West Coast beer brewed under these conditions, today the name “steam” is a trademark of Anchor Brewing and applies only to the singular process and taste of our flagship brand – San Francisco’s original Anchor Steam® Beer. The classic of American brewing tradition since 1896.
Beverage Profile
ABV: 4.90%
IBUs:
Served at: ()
Hops: Northern Brewer, Cascade
Malts: Two-Row Pale, Caramel
Judges Review
By Randy Scorby
Judges Ratings 92
Aroma: 22 / 24 / 24
Flavor: 36 / 40 / 40
Appearance: 6 / 6 / 6
Mouthfeel: 10 / 10 / 10
Overall Impression: 18 / 20 / 20
This beer starts with a lightly rich bready malt character that gives way to light toast and caramel as it warms and opens up. As the malt settles down, a woody, earthy hop aroma and light fresh apple ester offer a complementary balance. The flavor also does not disappoint. The bready, toasty and caramel malt sweetness is balanced by woody hops and a prominent hop bitterness that lingers into a crisp and dry finish. The breadiness from the malt lingers gently into the aftertaste. This beer pours an inviting copper color with an orange hue that pulls you into the glass.
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