Revolution Brewing, located in Chicago, Illinois, is the brewery responsible for crafting the popular Anti-Hero beer. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of experiencing the growth and success of Revolution Brewing firsthand.
When Revolution Brewing first opened its doors in 2010, the craft beer scene in Chicago was vastly different than it is today. The city was just starting to embrace the craft beer movement, with only a handful of breweries in operation. Revolution Brewing quickly made a name for itself, not only for its high-quality beers but also for its commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional brewing.
Anti-Hero, Revolution Brewing's flagship IPA, was introduced in 2012. At the time, IPAs were gaining popularity across the country, and Revolution saw an opportunity to create a standout beer in this style. They wanted to craft an IPA that would showcase the bold flavors of American hops while maintaining a balance that would appeal to a wide range of beer drinkers.
The name “Anti-Hero” itself is a nod to the rebellious nature of Revolution Brewing and the beer's assertive hop character. It represents a departure from the traditional hero archetype and embraces a more unconventional, edgier persona. This rebellious spirit is reflected not only in the beer's name but also in its bold and distinctive flavor profile.
Anti-Hero is brewed using a combination of American hops, including Chinook, Centennial, and Cascade. These hops contribute to the beer's citrusy, piney, and resinous aromas and flavors. The use of a variety of hop varieties allows for a complex and well-rounded hop character that is both bitter and aromatic.
One of the things that sets Revolution Brewing apart is their commitment to using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. They strive to support local farmers and suppliers, which not only helps the local economy but also ensures the freshest and highest quality ingredients are used in their beers. This dedication to sourcing local ingredients is evident in the flavors of Anti-Hero, as the hops used in the beer are sourced from American farms.
Revolution Brewing has also made a conscious effort to be environmentally friendly and sustainable in their brewing practices. They have implemented energy-saving initiatives, such as using solar panels and energy-efficient equipment, to reduce their carbon footprint. Additionally, they have implemented water conservation measures and have partnered with local organizations to promote environmental stewardship.
Over the years, Revolution Brewing has grown significantly, expanding its production capacity and distribution reach. Today, they are the largest independent brewery in Illinois, and Anti-Hero has become the top-selling IPA in the state. This success is a testament to the dedication and passion of the brewers and staff at Revolution Brewing, who continue to push the boundaries of brewing and create exceptional beers like Anti-Hero.
Revolution Brewing is the brewery behind the creation of Anti-Hero beer. Their commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation has helped them become a staple in the Chicago craft beer scene. Anti-Hero's bold and complex hop character has made it a favorite among beer enthusiasts, solidifying its place as one of the top IPAs in Illinois.