Beer-a-Day #319 
Anchor Steam derives its unusual name from the 19th century when “steam” seems to have been a nickname for beer brewed on the West Coast of America under primitive conditions and without ice. The brewing methods of those days are a mystery and, although there are many theories, no one can say with certainty why the word “steam” came to be associated with beer. For many decades Anchor alone has used this quaint name for its unique beer. In modern times, “Steam” has become a trademark of Anchor Brewing.
A pretty amber color with a thick head. Aroma is unique; I don’t know if I’ve ever smelled anything like it. My wife says it smells “clean”. Taste has a bit of oakiness and toastiness to it. It’s good.
When I moved from Germany to SF over 20 yrs ago, Anchor Steam quickly became a staple, and is still one of my all-time favorites.
My theory about the ‘Steam’ is based on their brewing method. They let fresh bay air in for cooling. SF is known as the Foggy City with good reason. Fog, steam, you get the connection.