I am currently in Chicago working on a theatre project at a halfway house on the Westside. While here I am staying at a priory. For those not familiar with what a priory is, think convent for priests. In past years working on this same project, I have stayed in an actual convent. I have to say, the priests have it better than the nuns. While being shown around the place it was pointed out to me that the refrigerator in the TV room is normally stocked with beer, although tonight it seems to be sadly lacking. I may have to remedy this. The refrigerator in the second floor common room, a quite well appointed room I might add, did have a couple of cans of Busch. Seeing as the Prior invited me to make myself at home, I had to avail myself.

I grew up in St. Louis. The Anheuser-Busch brewery tour was a frequently visited local attraction during my years at college. While I do still enjoy a Budweiser on occasion, I had not had the pleasure of indulging in a can of Busch in many a year. According to the Anheuser-Busch website, “the brand is the country’s largest-selling subpremium-priced beer in all major demographics.” So…in keeping with the spirit of of cheap beer night, here are my tasting notes.

Anheuser-Busch
Style: American Lager
Serving Style: 12 oz Can

Aroma: Very light sweet malt and sulfur. Pronounced green apple.
Appearance: Pale yellow. Brilliantly clear. Small white head that collapsed almost immediately.
Flavor: Tart green apple and lime dominate. Fairly sweet with little other malt character. Low bitterness and no noticeable hop flavor. Finish is watery with some lingering apple tartness.
Mouthfeel: Light body. High carbonation. Not much else.
Overall Impression: There are no off flavors as green apple acetaldehyde is acceptable for the style. This beer is very clean, but like many of the beers from cheap beer night, this seems a little sugary sweet. Green apple tartness balances this to some degree. Would be refreshing outdoors on a hot summer day, but there really isn’t much here.