Beers

Best Microbrews in California

pale ale

Sierra Nevada Brewing Company
Sierra Nevada is quite well known, but its origins date back to 1976 when a chemistry student Ken Grossman started his own home brewing business. That passion for taste, innovation and flavor is what keeps Sierra Nevada at the top of everybody's favorite list and allows critics to title it "among the best brewed anywhere in the world." A visit to the brewery in Chico, CA will allow you to take a free of charge tour of their brewery, as well as dine in their superb restaurant. I would highly suggest the sampler, which allows you to taste around 18 different kinds of beers, laid out in shot glasses on a paper mat. Depending on the season, you can be privy to the robust Celebration Ale (available around Christmas time) or the tangy, pilsner style Summerfest lager.
If you are feeling brave, you can try the Bigfoot Ale which packs a hearty punch. A 12 time Gold Medal Winner in numerous festivals, Bigfoot is dark and rich, with a bittersweet quality coming from the hops. At 9.6% alcohol content it is also one of the more potent members of the Sierra Nevada family. If you are seeking out a microbrewery with something for everybody, a welcoming atmosphere and really fantastic beer, visit Sierra Nevada Brewing Company in Chico, CA.

Pyramid Brewery
Located in Berkeley, CA and established in 1985, Pyramid Brewery crafted one of the very first American microbrews with its signature Pale Ale. Similar to Sierra Nevada, the brewery also boasts an superb dining experience with includes cheerful staff and an array of beer-infused entrees. On the other hand, in regards to the microbrews, the Pyramid Haywire Hefeweizen is far and away the most popular and has won a 2009 Gold Medal at the American Beer Festival. This unfiltered wheat ale delivers a smooth and one of a kind taste, with Nugget and Liberty hops. Another popular and distinctive Pyramid selection is the Audacious Apricot, a light beer with a dash of apricot. This is far and away the most intriging selection, and can provide newbees with an unique tasting experience at Pyramid.

anchor

Anchor Steam
A key aspect of San Francisco's history, Anchor Steam has been around since 1896, created by a German brewer Ernst. F Baruth and his son-in-law. The Anchor Steam Porter is one of the more popular brews, created using roasted dark malts and a top fermenting yeast, the brew delivers a luscious rich flavor and thick head. Microbrew aficionados will surely tell you that the hints of toffee, coffee and chocolate are what make this Porter unique. The Liberty Ale is another celebrated brew due to its special "bunging" production process, as well its one of a kind aroma. The process titled "bunging" is a natural carbonation method which yields less larger, champagne bubbles within the beer. A process which is not widely in use today, it proves once again that Anchor Steam is determined to its traditional production process and top quality. If you are looking to savor a taste of history, tradition and appreciate rich microbrews, then Anchor Steam is a spectacular San Francisco treat awaiting you.

Kern River Micro Brews
Ingredients are the highest priority being monitored carefully at Kern River Brewing Company13415 Sierra Way. Only the freshest hops and barley from the field are brought in and elected for this brew. Fresh running water is filtered through for the finest liquid possible to be thrown in the mix. All of the ingredients are local which makes this micro brew a true taste that is California inspired and grown by local Kern County residents. The process is painstakingly slow as each and every step is followed to strict standards developed by the Kernville producers who know what they are looking for in a micro brew. Reproducing steps and quality control measures ensures each batch of their beer comes to meet the Kern River Brewing standard and carry a very hop filled taste that has a bitter end note fitting well with a filling meal. Check out their website for pictures of their lovely lagers and ambers today.