256: Tom Riley and Dane Volek of Anchor Open Up About Steam Beer and Open Fermentation

San Francisco’s historic Anchor Brewing maintains its legacy through a rigorous commitment to traditional open-top fermentation, a process that defines the unique character of its signature Steam Beer. Brewmaster Tom Riley and Assistant Brewmaster Dane Volek detail how this method, combined with a resilient house yeast strain, creates distinct ester profiles that distinguish their lagers and ales. The conversation highlights the technical precision required to balance historical recipes—like the foundational Liberty Ale and Porter—with modern ingredient sourcing and quality control. Furthermore, the brewery’s Public Taps R&D facility serves as a vital hub for experimentation, enabling the team to test hybrid fermentation techniques and push the boundaries of their core styles. This approach ensures that while the brewery honors its deep-rooted history, it remains adaptable and innovative within the competitive craft beer landscape.