Cicerone Certified Beer Server Practice Exam

What modern style name best describes the flagship product of the Anchor Brewing Company?

1. American Amber Ale

2. American Pale Ale

3. Best Bitter

4. California Common

The correct answer is: California Common

The flagship product of Anchor Brewing Company is the California Common style, which is best exemplified by their Steam Beer. This style is unique because it is a lager brewed with ale yeast at warmer temperatures, which contributes to its distinctive flavor profile. California Common is known for its moderate hop character, with a malty backbone that balances the bitterness, and it typically has a clean, crisp finish, reflecting both the lager and ale characteristics. This style emerged out of the American craft brewing movement and is specifically tied to California, making it a fitting representation of Anchor Brewing's heritage and innovation in the beer industry. The name 'Steam Beer' derives from the fermentation method used, which produces vapor during the brewing process. In contrast, the other styles mentioned do not accurately capture the characteristics or historical context of their flagship product.