Southern Tier 2X Steam
I think like many of you out there, one of the very first craft brews I ever encountered was a California Common — Anchor Steam to be precise. I also remember not being fully prepared for the massive headache that followed the next morning after consuming a few too many bottles. At any rate, the Common is still one of those beers that we just don’t see all that often. Last year’s Port City Brewing Dorecho Common was a happy mistake, but rarely do I see any pre-determined examples of the style on shelves.
Well, New York’s Southern Tier has decided to not just brew up their own Common, but to also give it a little more oomph. 2X Steam is not your common Common. The brew weighs in at 8% ABV (an Imperial Common I presume) and delivers a good amount of lagery flavor.
Appearance
Southern Tier 2X Steam pours amber in color with a smallish, but resilient cap of off-white foam.
Aroma
Toasted bread, grain, light caramel, honey and citrusy fruits fill the nose gently.
Taste
There is a good ho presence here that I wasn’t fully expecting. Grassy, herbal hop flavors along with a decent bit of grapefruit arrive first along with lightly toasted bread, grain and moderate malt sweetness. There’s a good array of flavors with this fairly full-bodied brew. The finish carries a slightly medicinal flavor that lingers a touch before fading smoothly. For as much alcohol that this beer brings, it is dangerously smooth and drinkable.
Overall
2X Steam is one of the more interesting versions of a Common that I’ve had the opportunity to try out. It’s a big beer for sure, but I’m not sure that the alcohol really plays all that much of a role in its uniqueness. Perhaps it’s the more abundant hop character. Regardless, the beer brings a wide array of interesting characteristics to the palate.
Rating: 3.75/5
