Anthrax Debuts Signature Beer Wardance

Scott Ian accomplished many things in his 35 years with Anthrax – he’s performed for millions, took a turn as sponsored poker player and now brew master. In cooperation with Butternuts Beer & Ale Brewery, Anthrax is releasing their own craft beer Wardance.

“I’ve wanted to do our own beer for a long time,” Ian said. “It was just finding the right guy to make that a reality. I am a fan of Butternuts, especially their Porkslap Ale, and when I found out that Chuck was interested in doing a beer with us I immediately said yes.”

Wardance will be available in New York state in late March with plans to expand nationwide. It is a pale ale with special blend of malts and hops to give it a unique flavor.

The project came together when the band was at a New York West Village bar when they remarked to owner Phil Casacelli how they wanted their own beer. Casacelli contacted Butternuts’ owner Chuck Williamson and everything fell into place after that.

“I spoke to Chuck and we talked about what we like/don’t like and what I would want form our beer,” Ian said. “It was simple, a beer that would very drinkable yet still have flavor.”

“Finding the right taste that all of us loved was really important,” said Charlie Benante, Anthrax’s drummer. “But it was also important that the beer not leave people feeling heavy or filled up afterwards. The other thing I love about our beer is that it goes really well with a burger.”

Wardance (5.5% abv) is brewed using a blend of both New York State and North American two-row malt barley. The hops are sourced through New York State and West Coast growers.  A percent of the hops is added in the boil kettle and a percent post fermentation to create a unique flavor profile that balances the rich flavor and aromas.