Anchor Brewing Was San Francisco(defector.com)
defector.com
Anchor Brewing Was San Francisco
https://defector.com/anchor-brewing-was-san-francisco
56 comments
One thing I appreciated about Anchor was that, unlike most California breweries, it didn't focus on highly-hopped, high ABV beers. I'll miss it.
I feel like this hasn't been true in a while. I have no problem going to breweries down here in so cal and getting tasty beer of all styles.
i have problem with with going into stores and getting not ipa and not beer flavored sparking water. (lets put heineken/stella/etc imports aside)
I don’t know about breweries in CA but the ones in CO all have beer that is up and down the “heaviness” scale. Most breweries you can get a light larger that’s like 4.1 ABV all the way up to double IPA’s that are running in the 9-10% ABV
Plenty of crisp, light beers now.
You gotta brew what people buy.
Anchor was everywhere when I lived in SF for a good while. It was the reliable staple when you knew everything else at the party would taste like bitter barf. It did sell where it was made; perhaps they could've made a stronger effort to make a name for it elsewhere.
The first Anchor I ever had was in Denver of all places. This was over 20 years ago. They made a name for themselves at least as far as there.
The first one I had was in Boston well over a decade ago - many bottles were consumed during undergrad.
Sitting here in Chinatown ending a tradition!
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I drank Anchor occasionally, but then Fort Point was a better local, everyday beer.
Now I think I East Brother is the best regional option for pilsner - just a little extra maltiness is really nice.
Now I think I East Brother is the best regional option for pilsner - just a little extra maltiness is really nice.
https://vinepair.com/articles/anchor-brewing-company-union/
I wonder if they would have been better able to control costs and stay in business if their workers hadn't unionized?
I wonder if they would have been better able to control costs and stay in business if their workers hadn't unionized?
I listened to a podcast with one of the people involved in leading the unionisation, it sounded like the company was already in bad shape before that point. During the process, they also had contact with other Sapporo owned breweries in Japan who had unionised and stayed successful.
If you enjoy Anchor, highly recommend Olfactory in Dogpatch… which is a rare (very new) SF brewery specializing in lagers and pilsners which are excellent.
the thing about anchor (and i don't mean only steam, but also lager, pilsner and liberty ale) it's that I can hop into safeway or liquor store on the corner and it will be there. cold and nicely balanced.
new craft breweries are nice for when you go out, etc. or live near by. but it doesn't replace something you can buy on the go .
new craft breweries are nice for when you go out, etc. or live near by. but it doesn't replace something you can buy on the go .
Sierra Nevada always fills that niche for me: ubiquitous and of reliable quality. I don't like every SN beer, nor are they my absolute favorite, but their popular ones are consistently solid.
no lager there. i just want nicely balanced lagers and pilsners. not "summer hoppy pilsner". not "italian pilsner". not "whatever coast lager".
but I guess i am asking for too much
but I guess i am asking for too much
Try Trumer Pils. Or Longboard Lager.
Or grab a case of Kirin or Asahi from costco.
Or grab a case of Kirin or Asahi from costco.
kirin/asahi for me only good when it's going together with yakitori. and bottle of sake.
longboard/trumers are kinda ok but they are somewhat not right . anchor steam bears for me and for my wife have better taste (we come from lager/pilsner dominating countries)
Agreed. I love a good traditional pilsner, but there's nothing ubiquitous on the market. Scrimshaw is good, and somewhat available, but it's not everywhere.
There's a deep irony. Anchor's lager was unique because it was terrible.
They wanted to set up a "modern" lager brewery like what was killing off all of the historic beer styles on the East coast. But they did not have any of the refrigeration equipment. So the entire concept of "steaming" beer was the result of a low-tech hack/workaround to make a "modern" lager beer without the facilities. It exists today as a unique historical artifact, but it was honestly pretty lucky to survive past the introduction of real lagers in California on kitsch alone.
The story is remarkably similar to Boudin sourdough. That "signature" taste is not from San Francisco's air (or not entirely), but it's of a normal sourdough bread aged incorrectly.
They wanted to set up a "modern" lager brewery like what was killing off all of the historic beer styles on the East coast. But they did not have any of the refrigeration equipment. So the entire concept of "steaming" beer was the result of a low-tech hack/workaround to make a "modern" lager beer without the facilities. It exists today as a unique historical artifact, but it was honestly pretty lucky to survive past the introduction of real lagers in California on kitsch alone.
The story is remarkably similar to Boudin sourdough. That "signature" taste is not from San Francisco's air (or not entirely), but it's of a normal sourdough bread aged incorrectly.
> Anchor Brewing was a cockroach. The San Francisco brewery survived the great earthquake of 1906, the subsequent fire that destroyed the city, its owner being run over by a cable car right after the fire, World War I, the Volstead Act, World War II, a series of midcentury closures and re-openings…
So maybe it survives this one too?
So maybe it survives this one too?
I don't think this is as much about Japanese management, poor flavor, etc. As has been pointed out by the comments.
I think this is a simple combination of the decline of SF retail and the decline of alcohol culture. I would not be surprised to see more breweries following even in cities with healthier foot traffic.
I think this is a simple combination of the decline of SF retail and the decline of alcohol culture. I would not be surprised to see more breweries following even in cities with healthier foot traffic.
Once they did away with their iconic branding I couldn't find their beer in stores in the East Bay -- and when I noticed it I didn't recognize it. California Lager was one of my favorite beers. RIP old friend.
I really would like to see an analysis of Japanese companies expanding into overseas markets through acquisitions or mergers. Are there any standout successes? What factors limit Japanese companies when they expand in this way?
In my very qualitative experience working in and with Japanese companies, what is usually the case is that most such acquisitions tend to stagnate. A big reason for that is the highly disciplined and exacting culture in Japan, which they find hard to export over into other countries' cultures.
Moreover, the Japanese executives who are brought in to set things up (and whose responsibility it is to create said culture), mostly mull about going back to HQ instead of doing their jobs. This is especially the case for situations where relocations are hard for their families.
On the other hand, some of the best results often came when HQ was represented by someone much more wizened and experienced, almost retirement age. Almost all such folks I've met were exceptionally sharp and brilliant, and didn't have any obligations like family or HQ. Those guys didn't really give a shit and just gave the task their best shot, in very Japanese fashion.
Moreover, the Japanese executives who are brought in to set things up (and whose responsibility it is to create said culture), mostly mull about going back to HQ instead of doing their jobs. This is especially the case for situations where relocations are hard for their families.
On the other hand, some of the best results often came when HQ was represented by someone much more wizened and experienced, almost retirement age. Almost all such folks I've met were exceptionally sharp and brilliant, and didn't have any obligations like family or HQ. Those guys didn't really give a shit and just gave the task their best shot, in very Japanese fashion.
7-Eleven seems to be doing well since it was acquired in 2005 by Japanese company Seven & I Holdings.
Wasn't that just an inversion of ownership though? Wasn't Seven & I the Japanese owner of 7-Eleven brand?
I quickly looked top 100 listed companies. What I can easily found is Firestone by Bridgestone. CBS/Columbia/BMG by Sony has been the way to expand their business for entertainment (then gaming). Moreover, maybe Daikin NA acquisition worked well. Beam by Suntory (non-listed) seems to fine. There's very few than I expected.
I thought the issue was that millennials are aging out of binge drinking and Zers aren't taking it up?
Ironically, Anchor Brewing was:
* Originally built up by Germans
* Run into the ground by San Franciscans
* Rescued and reinvigorated by an Iowan
* Run into the ground by Japanese
which actually is a perfect SF story.
* Originally built up by Germans
* Run into the ground by San Franciscans
* Rescued and reinvigorated by an Iowan
* Run into the ground by Japanese
which actually is a perfect SF story.
Not enough good things said about the Germans and their influence in American culture
The tucked away little towns built by German hands are imo, some of the prettiest places in Texas. It makes you realize that places are what they are because of the people who made them and live in them. When humans love their craft, it shows. Imo, the love of one's craft is an area that German people have shined in for a long time. I am thankful.
For those not from Texas or not having visited before, two of the towns that almost certainly are being referenced by parent poster are New Braunfels and Fredericksburg. Both are somewhat well known by Texans but probably not known well outside of here (well, perhaps if you like wine you know of Fredericksburg otherwise).
Both are very cozy towns that are a bit touristy (Fredericksburg more so) that really cherish German culture and you can get about as authentic an experience as you can get in the States in each town. It is really neat
Both are very cozy towns that are a bit touristy (Fredericksburg more so) that really cherish German culture and you can get about as authentic an experience as you can get in the States in each town. It is really neat
You nailed it. Those were exactly the two places I had in mind. I'm thankful for those places. They make Texas better.
Yeah, the Buc-ee’s and Coopers of New Braunfels really brought me back to the old German countryside. :)
The most popular spots there aren’t even remotely German (even the non-chains like Gristmill), but it is interesting how appealing the German look is to some of the architecture in the old town. People’s infatuation with the location (including my own) does seem to be very superficial rather than any real relationship to Germany.
The most popular spots there aren’t even remotely German (even the non-chains like Gristmill), but it is interesting how appealing the German look is to some of the architecture in the old town. People’s infatuation with the location (including my own) does seem to be very superficial rather than any real relationship to Germany.
Yeah hence the “as you can get” qualifier. I do think the experience walks the line on kitsch, but in the absolute most positive way possible. There’s a lot of genuine love for the culture in both locations, even if it isn’t exactly 100% German. Bucees fits right in, since they really know how to kitsch it up. Wurstfest is a lot of fun
> it is interesting how appealing the German look is to some of the architecture in the old town
Architecture is a huge deal! Imo, it is fair and good to appreciate the architecture of other places.
I humbly implore you to read the book, "The Pillars of the Earth" by Ken Follett. It tells the story of the work that historically went into a cathedral. They didn't just spring up, some of these were generational projects. Architecture is a really big deal.
Architecture is a huge deal! Imo, it is fair and good to appreciate the architecture of other places.
I humbly implore you to read the book, "The Pillars of the Earth" by Ken Follett. It tells the story of the work that historically went into a cathedral. They didn't just spring up, some of these were generational projects. Architecture is a really big deal.
Some Czech culture here and there as well
Most of the midwest is so permeated by German substrate that it's not even visible. If it's not ethnic, it's German.
Apologies but this is such a hilarious Americanism: "If it's not ethnic it's German"
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> * Rescued and reinvigorated by an Iowan
A rich kid of German descent who bought a brewery. Go figure.
A rich kid of German descent who bought a brewery. Go figure.
I don't get what is SF about this - can you expand?
Since moving to the bay area 15 years ago, I've personally had this happen twice to my employer (get bought by people who don't have intimate knowledge of the particulars of the business, then mismanaged, then shutdown).
I dont know why, but I can confirm this is "so Bay Area/SF" for me relating to my personal experience.
I dont know why, but I can confirm this is "so Bay Area/SF" for me relating to my personal experience.
I was mostly riffing on the "Anchor Brewing Was San Francisco" title, but the boom and bust cycle of Anchor is quintessentially San Francisco.
But it goes further, including a disastrous rebranding that is probably familiar to many.
But it goes further, including a disastrous rebranding that is probably familiar to many.
I did the tour once. Seemed like a solid camaraderie among the team crafting and operating. Shame; but what is in a name; in a world where name and meaning is sold and operated.
And now a short eulogy by our AI overlords ...
In the realm of brewing, a twist of fate, Anchor Steam Brewery faced a daunting weight. Under Sapporo's wing, a Japanese beer, A tale of transformation, not to disappear.
From the city of San Francisco, so bold, Anchor Steam's journey began to unfold. But in the hands of Sapporo, a foreign hand, The winds of change swept across the land.
Japanese beer, a new direction took flight, Blending cultures, merging flavors with lack of delight. Anchor Steam's legacy, now intertwined, A fusion of traditions, a brewing bind.
A brewing tale, int In the realm of craft brewing, a dark twist unfurls, Anchor Steam Brewery caught in a whirl. Taken over by Sapporo, a corporate hand, The essence of craft lost in their command.
Once a beacon of independence and pride, Anchor Steam now struggles, feeling tied. Sapporo's grip, a suffocating hold, The spirit of creativity, slowly sold.
Gone are the days of small-batch delight, The heart and soul of craft, now overshadowed, By profit margins and strategies so hallowed.
San Francisco's brewing heritage, now in decline, As the corporate machine leaves little room to shine. The authentic flavors, once revered and pure, Now diluted, a hollow allure.
Yet, amidst the gloom, craft brewing persists, A movement resilient, fueled by passionate fists. Independent brewers, like rebels in the night, Keep the spirit alive, their craft alight.
Let us raise our glasses to these true artisans, The pioneers who defy corporate dominions. Craft brewing's spirit, forever untamed, In their hands, the legacy reclaimed.
Anchor Steam's plight serves as a reminder, Of the importance of staying true, never blinder. To support local breweries, their craft we embrace, Preserving authenticity, in each brewing chase.
And now a short eulogy by our AI overlords ...
In the realm of brewing, a twist of fate, Anchor Steam Brewery faced a daunting weight. Under Sapporo's wing, a Japanese beer, A tale of transformation, not to disappear.
From the city of San Francisco, so bold, Anchor Steam's journey began to unfold. But in the hands of Sapporo, a foreign hand, The winds of change swept across the land.
Japanese beer, a new direction took flight, Blending cultures, merging flavors with lack of delight. Anchor Steam's legacy, now intertwined, A fusion of traditions, a brewing bind.
A brewing tale, int In the realm of craft brewing, a dark twist unfurls, Anchor Steam Brewery caught in a whirl. Taken over by Sapporo, a corporate hand, The essence of craft lost in their command.
Once a beacon of independence and pride, Anchor Steam now struggles, feeling tied. Sapporo's grip, a suffocating hold, The spirit of creativity, slowly sold.
Gone are the days of small-batch delight, The heart and soul of craft, now overshadowed, By profit margins and strategies so hallowed.
San Francisco's brewing heritage, now in decline, As the corporate machine leaves little room to shine. The authentic flavors, once revered and pure, Now diluted, a hollow allure.
Yet, amidst the gloom, craft brewing persists, A movement resilient, fueled by passionate fists. Independent brewers, like rebels in the night, Keep the spirit alive, their craft alight.
Let us raise our glasses to these true artisans, The pioneers who defy corporate dominions. Craft brewing's spirit, forever untamed, In their hands, the legacy reclaimed.
Anchor Steam's plight serves as a reminder, Of the importance of staying true, never blinder. To support local breweries, their craft we embrace, Preserving authenticity, in each brewing chase.
Tradition only goes so far.