This week’s Malt Monday Beer Review of the Week is  a special one; it’s my first Beer Bowl in honor of Super Bowl XLVII.   Baltimore versus San Francisco all in the form of beer.  Instead of the Ravens versus the 49ers, it’s Anchor Steam Beer versus Heavy Seas.  East Coast versus the West Coast when it comes to the best brew and the ultimate Beer Bowl winner. 

Representing Baltimore we have Heavy Seas, Red Sky at Night

Style: Saison/Farmhouse Ale

Alcohol by Volume (ABV): 7.5%

Calories: 225

Price: $1.99/bottle

Baltimore-based Heavy Seas came to the Beer Bowl ready to rumble with a strong defense.  Packing a 7.5 percent ABV, Heavy Seas came ready to tackle all opponents.   Brewed as a Belgian style Saison Ale, Red Sky at Night is part of their seasonal collection.  The beer poured a beautiful red color and produced nice foam and a decent amount of lacing. My taste buds were met with a strong combination of sweet and spice with hints of citrus.  Medium-bodied, the beer was not difficult to drink, although I definitely felt the alcohol’s presence with each sip.

Representing San Francisco we have Anchor Steam Beer

Style: California Common

Alcohol by Volume (ABV): 4.9%

Calories:153

Price: $10.99/6-pack

San Francisco’s most iconic beer came to the Beer Bowl as the overall favorite, predicted to take it all without much of a fight.  Made in San Francisco since 1896, it’s hard to compete against such a long-standing beer with such a fine reputation.   A deep amber color, Anchor Steam presented with rich flavor and a thin body. Clean and refreshing and especially easy to drink. 

We all know when it comes down to the Super Bowl only one team can win.  The same holds true for the Beer Bowl, only one beer will reign supreme and victorious in its quest to be the best of the best.  While I can appreciate the spiciness and bite of Baltimore’s Heavy Seas, I found it a little harsh with a difficult aftertaste. 

Just like the computer models are predicting a win for San Francisco for Super Bowl XLVII San Fran and Anchor Steam take the title of Beer Bowl winner!  It’s hard to beat such a long-standing, well-known team and the same holds true for the Beer Bowl.  Anchor Steam has a long history and has proved they have the winning formula when it comes to beer and the ancient art of brewing.  Anchor Steam Beer is GGG approved!   

Stay tuned this week for more Super Bowl themed posts and fun recipes.