California Common / Steam Beer

The California Common, or Steam Beer, is a hybrid style unique to the US. It's usually brewed with a special strain of lager yeast that works better at warmer (ale-like) temperatures. This method dates back to the late 1800's in California when refrigeration was a great luxury. At the time, brewers had to improvise to cool the beer down, so shallow fermenters were used. In a way, the lager yeast was trained to ferment quicker at warmer temperatures. Today's examples are light amber to tawny red in color, medium bodied, and possess a malty character. Some mildly fruitiness along with an herbal yet assertive hop bitterness are also typical. San Francisco's Anchor Brewing Company trademarked the term "Steam Beer" and as such all other examples of the style must be legally referred to as "California Common."

ABV: 4.0–6.0% | IBU: 35–45 | Glassware: Pint Glass (or Becker, Nonic, Tumbler)

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