Anchor Steam Beer

Brewery: Anchor Brewing Company
Style: Steam Beer
Location: Sanfrancisco, CA
Brewery Website
Rating: A

The Anchor Steam Beer was one of the first true craft beers of modern times, and it is still one of the best. Modern production of Anchor Steam started in the early 1970's, at a time when mass-produced beer was reaching its pinnacle. To this day, Anchor still produces all their beer using traditional techniques.

Anchor Steam beer is deep amber in color with a reddish-brown hue. It has a bubbly, light off-white head that fades rather quickly. The nose has citrus and floral notes to it. There is also a faint nutty aroma.

On the palate the Anchor Steam has a mild acidity with bready malt flavor. There is noticible bitterness, but it is well-balanced with the other flavors. There is some sweetness and a hint of alcohol. There are supporting notes of earth, nuts, berries and hop flowers. The Anchor Steam Beer is mid bodied with hints of both juiciness and astringency. The finish has bread, berries and bitter notes.

I enjoyed my Anchor Steam Beer with some leftover pizza, and it goes great with barbecue as well. This is a classic beer that everyone should try. If you haven't had one recently, it may be time to give it another visit. Your taste buds will thank you.