Anchor Brewing Liberty Ale

Where In Town: Daily Grill, 1200 18th St. NW

Price: $6.50/12 ounces

Brew Free or Die

It’s too easy to overlook the role that San Francisco’s Anchor Brewing played in the craft beer revolution. Not only did it create America’s first modern porter, Anchor Porter, but also its first modern India pale ale, Liberty Ale. Almost as easy to forget is how national chains like Daily Grill have adapted to changing times, adding craft beer to their menus. So do yourself a favor, keep your eyes open, and snag a Liberty Ale at Daily Grill (preferably during happy hour when its solid array of brews from the likes of Schlafly, 21st Amendment, and Flying Dog are all $2 off). It’s probably even better now than when it was first released in 1975.

Flower Power

Liberty Ale might not taste like most IPAs you’ve had: The style has become bolder and more bitter in recent decades. Still, this is a damn good beer, set apart by a floral and citrusy aroma imparted by Cascade hops, a variety made famous by Sierra Nevada Pale Ale. It smells slightly spicy, with notes of orange and ripe pear. The beer itself goes down easily—lemony, moderately bitter, and light, but not watery. Who cares if it’s old news? The classics are classics for a reason.

Photo by Daniel Fromson