Gilbert, AZ Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Essential Directory
Gilbert, Arizona has become a beacon for craft beer aficionados, boasting a diverse range of breweries that celebrate the vibrant local brewing culture. As a suburban locale nestled in the Phoenix metropolitan area, Gilbert offers residents and visitors a compelling mix of traditional and innovative beer experiences. With an ever-growing list of breweries, such as 12 West Brewing, Arizona Wilderness Brewing, and Desert Monks Brewing Co., the town caters to a spectrum of tastes and preferences, ensuring that each pint is as unique as the patron who enjoys it.
These craft breweries are not just about producing beer; they serve as communal spaces where creativity and community intersect. Each establishment tells a story, often reflective of Arizona's spirit and the passionate individuals behind the brews. They are dedicated to using local ingredients when possible, embodying the essence of what it means to savor a truly local craft beer. Patrons can expect to find an array of offerings, from the classic ales and lagers to experimental and seasonal brews that challenge and delight the palate.
For those looking to immerse themselves in Gilbert's craft beer scene, there's no shortage of breweries to explore. Highlights include the environmentally-conscious efforts of Arizona Wilderness Brewing, the creative contributions of 12 West Brewing, and the artisanal approach of Desert Monks Brewing Co. These establishments, among others, form the backbone of Gilbert's beer community, each playing a distinct role in positioning the town as a noteworthy destination for craft beer enthusiasts.
History of Craft Beer in Gilbert
Gilbert, Arizona, has witnessed an impressive surge in the craft beer scene, mirroring the nationwide trend in recent years. It began to truly flourish with the establishment of Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co., which set the stage for a burgeoning craft beer culture in the town.
The town's craft breweries are known for both their innovation and homage to local flavors. Gilbert's journey into craft beer has been marked by both historical tributes and contemporary creativity. Typical of Gilbert's offerings, Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co., located at 721 N Arizona Avenue, has been recognized for its commitment to locally sourced ingredients and environmental stewardship. Likewise, 12 West Brewing has made a splash with its diverse selection of beers and modern approach at their location on 3000 E Ray Road.
Below is a snapshot of key players in Gilbert's craft beer evolution:
Brewery Name Address Contact
Arizona Wilderness Brewing 721 N Arizona Ave, Gilbert, AZ (480) 497-2739
12 West Brewing 3000 E Ray Rd, Gilbert, AZ (480) 404-9699
Desert Monks Brewing Co. 1094 S Gilbert Rd, Gilbert, AZ (480) 525-7444
Brewery enthusiasts and tourists alike are often intrigued by the stories each craft beer tells—a narrative of Gilbert's spirit and inventiveness. The emergence of taprooms and brewpubs like OHSO, Desert Monks, and Flying Basset reflects Gilbert's transformation into a hub for craft beer aficionados.
The town's commendable selection of establishments continues to create a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere for both locals and visitors, while contributing significantly to Gilbert's local economy and community identity. Gilbert's craft beer scene has thus become an integral part of its cultural fabric, offering a taste of both tradition and contemporary taste-making.
Top Craft Breweries in Gilbert
Gilbert, Arizona has become a hotspot for craft beer enthusiasts, boasting several acclaimed breweries known for their quality and innovation. Here are some of the top craft breweries that have put Gilbert on the map within the craft beer community.
Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co
Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co is celebrated for its commitment to sustainability and use of locally-sourced ingredients. It consistently draws praise with a diverse beer selection that highlights the flavors of the region. The brewery is located at 721 N Arizona Avenue and has become a cornerstone of the Gilbert craft beer scene.
Address: 721 N Arizona Avenue, Gilbert, AZ 85233
Contact: (480) 497-2739
Noteworthy Beers:
Refuge IPA - A staple for hop lovers
American Presidential Stout - Rich and robust
12 West Brewing Co
Next is 12 West Brewing Co, which has garnered attention for its artisanal approach to brewing. The brewery has a notable presence at Barnone, a craftsman space that houses its brewing operations along with other local businesses. With high ratings in reviews, visitors often recommend its flavorful and well-crafted beers.
Address: 3000 E Ray Road, Gilbert, AZ 85296
Contact: (480) 404-9699
Signature Selections:
Frontside IPA - A balanced and citrusy IPA
Zona Pils - A crisp and refreshing Pilsner
BarNone
BarNone, located within the Agritopia community, is not a brewery itself but a craft collective that encompasses 12 West Brewing among others. It is highly regarded for providing a unique space where patrons can experience a spectrum of craft beer. The creativity and craft evident in the beers available at BarNone are a testament to the thriving craft beer culture in Gilbert.
Features:
A variety of craft beers from on-site brewing operations
A shared space with other local artisans and makers
Guide to Gilbert's Best Beers
Gilbert, Arizona offers a vibrant craft beer scene, showcasing a variety of local brews that cater to every palate. Here is a focused look at notable IPAs, unique local flavors, and seasonal specialties that stand out in Gilbert's craft beer landscape.
Notable IPAs
Gilbert's breweries produce a selection of IPAs renowned for their boldness and hop-forward profiles. 12 West Brewing is known for its variety of IPAs, capitalizing on both traditional and experimental hop combinations. The Desert Monks Brewing Co. also offers IPAs with a balance of bitterness and aromatic nuance.
Unique Local Flavors
Local breweries infuse unique regional tastes, highlighting flavors like local fruits and native ingredients. Arizona Wilderness Brewing is recognized for its creative use of local inputs, producing beers that capture the essence of the Arizona landscape. Their offerings include brews that integrate indigenous fruits and even ingredients reminiscent of the French farmhouse tradition, adding a touch of rusticity.
Seasonal Specialties
Seasonal beers in Gilbert are a testament to the brewers' ingenuity, offering limited-edition brews that reflect the changing times of year. Seasonal specialties frequently utilize festive flavors such as pumpkin in the fall or bright citrus notes in summer offerings. The Flying Basset Brewing often has a lineup of seasonal ales that attract locals and visitors alike, eager to sample the fleeting flavors of the season.
Brewery Tours and Tastings
In Gilbert, AZ, beer enthusiasts can revel in an array of brewery tours that offer an intimate glimpse into the local craft beer scene. These tours provide an opportunity for visitors to engage with the passionate owners who have dedicated their work to brewing.
SanTan Gardens delivers a comprehensive experience with its brewery and distillery tours. Guests can explore the intricate process of beer-making, from grain handling to barrel aging, highlighting the owner's dedication to their craft.
For those inclined towards a variety of local flavors, Arizona Brewery Tours delivers an encompassing overview of Gilbert's beer landscape. Patrons may taste a selection of craft beers and absorb the unique atmosphere each establishment has to offer.
List of Gilbert Craft Beer Stops:
SanTan Brewing Company: Engage with 10 key stops along the brewery and distillery, ensuring a thorough exploration of their beer selection.
12 West Brewing: Fine-tune your palate with their craft beers, which are a staple in the local scene.
Arizona Wilderness Brewing: Noted for their work ethic and passion, this locale takes pride in pushing the envelope of craft beer innovation.
Desert Monks Brewing Co.: This taproom is a testament to the craft, offering a menu that reflects their commitment to quality and local identity.
OHSO Brewery: Recognized for its vibrant atmosphere, OHSO combines a lively setting with a diverse craft beer menu.
Each brewery showcases a tapestry of tastes, encapsulating the essence of Gilbert's craft beer tapestry. With each sip, visitors can appreciate the meticulous work and fervent passion that fortify Gilbert's local beer culture.
Food Pairings and Menus
When visiting craft breweries in Gilbert, patrons can enjoy a variety of food pairings designed to complement the local beer offerings. Breweries with food menus often curate their selections to match well with their house-made beers, providing a complete gastronomic experience.
Uncle Bear’s Brewery, for example, features a taproom and yard where visitors can savor their craft beers alongside a food menu that includes hearty and casual American pub fare. The bold flavors of their ales and lagers can be paired with the savory notes of burgers and sandwiches, creating a satisfying meal.
Arizona Wilderness Brewing is known not just for its beer but also for its commitment to local produce, which reflects in their food offerings. They often feature dishes that can accompany their wilderness-themed brews, with options ranging from snacks to full entrees.
For those looking for a more diverse selection, 12 West Brewing inside Barnone offers a food menu that pairs well with their artisanal beers. The availability of various snacks and small plates allows customers to mix and match, creating their own personalized tasting experience.
While traditional pub snacks are commonly found, some breweries and taprooms venture into offering unique items like artisanal ice cream, which can be a sweet counterbalance to a hoppy IPA or a robust stout. The contrast between sweet and bitter can enhance the flavors of both the beer and the ice cream, providing an unusual but delightful pairing.
Craft beer enthusiasts should remember that menus can change seasonally, and it's always a good idea to ask staff for recommendations to discover the most harmonious beer and food combinations available.
The Brewpub Experience
In Gilbert, Arizona, the brewpub scene is a vibrant tableau, inviting friends and beer aficionados to savor a spectrum of craft beers. These establishments combine the charm of a beer bar with the authenticity of an on-site brewery, delivering an immersive experience.
Visitors will find the atmosphere in Gilbert's taprooms to be welcoming and frequently animated with live music—a harmonious background for the clinking of glasses and friendly chatter. Four Silos Brewery, for instance, is not only known for its eclectic selection of beers but also for its engaging environment and live performances. Additionally, The Perch Brewery has been highlighted by patrons for its outdoor seating and festive ambience.
What sets these venues apart is their dedication to serving a variety of craft beers. With options like the award-winning West Coast IPA from an acclaimed local brewery which secured a gold medal at the 2023 Arizona Craft Beer Awards, beer enthusiasts can indulge their palates with confidence in quality and taste.
Taprooms like OHSO Brewery in Gilbert invite a social and educational angle, where guests can often meet the brewers and learn about the brewing process. This adds a layer of appreciation for the craft of beer making.
The selection in these spaces typically extends beyond their own creations. They also feature rotating taps of other local and regional microbreweries, ensuring a varied and satisfying experience.
Popular Brewpubs in Gilbert OHSO Brewery Arizona Wilderness Four Silos Brewery The Perch Brewery Desert Monks Brewing Co.
Each visit promises new flavors to explore, making Gilbert a renowned destination for craft beer lovers.
Craft Beer and Community Events
In Gilbert, Arizona, the local craft beer scene is an integral part of the community, contributing not just flavorful brews but also a vibrant culture. Brewery taprooms across the town function as hubs where friends gather, live music fills the air, and cultural events take place. These establishments are more than mere drinking spots; they are venues where locals and visitors alike can dive into the town's unique atmosphere.
Local Craft Breweries:
12 West Brewing: Offers an array of beers and often hosts events that bring the community together.
Arizona Wilderness Brewing: Known for their environmentally conscious approach and frequently features live music.
Desert Monks Brewing Co.: A popular haunt that infuses local culture into their events.
Monthly Events:
Tap Takeovers: Local brewers showcase their creations, providing an opportunity for beer aficionados to taste various styles and flavors.
Trivia Nights: These taprooms become battlegrounds of knowledge, combining fun with local craft beer.
Community Contributions: Breweries in Gilbert play their part in community development by organizing events that focus on local charities and causes. Each event provides a space where community members can contribute while enjoying the best of local craft beer.
Annual Highlights:
Craft Beer Festivals: Drawing crowds from near and far, these festivals celebrate local breweries and offer an array of beers, food, and live performances.
With a blend of friendliness and expertise, the local craft beer scene in Gilbert does more than simply serve beverages. It fosters a sense of togetherness and is a key player in town affairs - from stimulating the local economy to enriching the cultural fabric.
Craft Beer Retail and Merchandise
In Gilbert, Arizona, the craft beer scene is thriving with retailers offering an array of local craft beer options. The retailers range from specialized beer stores to gas stations that have dedicated a section to craft beers. Businesses like GIT N' RUN and Gilbert Convenient Mart have become popular stops for beer enthusiasts looking for a wide selection from local breweries.
One Stop Gas and Foodmart stands out for integrating technology in their services, providing customers with a convenient shopping experience. Although not a traditional craft beer destination, Quick N Shine Carwash has diversified, offering a variety of craft beers. Beer World is another notable retailer offering a plethora of craft beer selections.
Local breweries also often operate their own retail outlets, selling merchandise such as branded glassware, apparel, and other beer-related paraphernalia. This not only enables beer lovers to proudly display their loyalty to their favorite local brews but also supports the breweries directly.
Here’s a small table highlighting key local craft beer retail spots in Gilbert:
Retailer Specialty
GIT N' RUN Craft Beer Variety
One Stop Gas and Foodmart Tech-Enhanced Shopping
Gilbert Convenient Mart Local Craft Beer Selection
Quick N Shine Carwash Craft Beer Retail
Beer World Extensive Beer Options
Retailers ensure that the owners and staff have a clear understanding of the craft beer they sell, often providing recommendations and knowledge about the local craft beer scene. In doing so, they contribute to the community’s economic growth and cement Gilbert's reputation as a hub for craft beer lovers.
Insider Tips from Local Brewers
When visiting Gilbert, Arizona for its local craft beer scene, patrons can look to the founders like Jonathan Buford and Patrick Ware of Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co. for inspiration. Their passion for brewing is reflected in their dedication to local sourcing and crafting unique flavors that have put Gilbert on the map for beer enthusiasts.
Local Sourcing: Brewers emphasize the importance of Arizona-sourced ingredients, which not only support the local economy but also contribute to the distinct taste profiles of their beers.
Tasting Strategies:
Start with a Flight: New visitors should begin with a flight to sample the wide range of beers available.
Seasonal Offerings: Be sure to ask about seasonal brews; these are often where the brewers' creativity shines.
Gilbert's Craft Breweries: Noteworthy Stops
Brewery Must-Try Beer Unique Feature
12 West Brewing Flagship IPA Spacious patio setting
Arizona Wilderness Brewing Local-sourced saison World-renowned recognition
Desert Monks Brewing Co. House-special lager Cozy, communal atmosphere
Brewers in Gilbert advocate for visitors to engage with staff, noting that they are a wellspring of knowledge and are eager to share the stories behind each beer. This can enhance the visitor's experience and lead to a greater appreciation of the craft.
Lastly, they suggest taking time to enjoy the ambiance of each brewery. The collective spaces are designed to offer a complete experience, often combining elements like handcrafted beers with local food and culture, ensuring a memorable visit for every palate.
Exploring the Role of Craft Beer in Gilbert's Economy
The craft beer industry in Gilbert, Arizona, has become a significant contributor to the local economy. With a growing number of breweries in the area, these businesses are creating jobs, stimulating commerce, and contributing to the overall economic health of the region.
Craft Breweries in Gilbert:
Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co.
12 West Brewing
Desert Monks Brewing Co.
OHSO Brewery
Flying Basset Brewing
Economic Contributions:
Job Creation: Each brewery generates employment opportunities, from brewing to serving staff.
Local Revenue: Sales from craft beer contribute to local tax revenue, supporting public services.
Tourism Attraction: Craft beer enthusiasts often visit local breweries, boosting income for associated businesses like restaurants and hotels.
The presence of craft breweries can have a multiplier effect. As they source ingredients and services, they support local suppliers, furthering the economic interdependence within the community. Additionally, these breweries often become social hubs, enhancing Gilbert's cultural appeal and potentially leading to further investment in the area.
Craft beer's role in Gilbert reflects a broader trend across Arizona, with the state ranking 19th for the number of craft breweries. Gilbert's commitment to this thriving industry not only bolsters local business prospects but also positions it as a central player in supporting Arizona's economy through the craft beer niche.
Reviews and Recommendations
When exploring Gilbert, AZ for craft beer, enthusiasts are met with a kaleidoscope of local flavors and welcoming atmospheres. The Whining Pig - Gilbert and Wicked Rain have been highlighted by patrons for their extensive selection of craft beers and friendly vibes.
Arizona Wilderness Brewing stands out for its commitment to local ingredients and environmental stewardship, translating to an authentic craft beer experience praised in numerous reviews. The culture in Arizona Wilderness is often described as innovative and community-oriented, aligning with the values of craft beer enthusiasts.
Another notable stop is 12 West Brewing - Barnone, which has received acclaim for its bold flavors and inventive brews. Visitors appreciate the knowledgeable staff and the friendly culture that adds to the overall enjoyment of their craft beer journey.
For those interested in a more intimate setting, Hair of the Dog - Wine Bar And Tap House provides a cozy ambiance to enjoy carefully curated beers. Regulars often mention the personal touch in service and the well-informed recommendations from the staff.
The local beer culture is also reflected in the selection offered at retail. Craft Beer Store in Gilbert is a place where consumers can find a wide range of craft beers, with staff members providing insightful reviews and personalized guidance according to one's taste preferences.
Venue Known For
The Whining Pig Diverse Selection, Friendly Service
Arizona Wilderness Brewing Local Ingredients, Environmental Ethos
12 West Brewing Bold Flavors, Creativity
Hair of the Dog Intimate Ambiance, Expert Recommendations
It's evident that Gilbert hosts a vibrant community that cherishes quality and variety, with local breweries and taprooms receiving consistent praise for their contribution to the craft beer scene.
The Future of Craft Beer in Gilbert
The craft beer scene in Gilbert, Arizona, is experiencing dynamic growth, signaling a robust future. Local breweries are tapping into the latest beer trends, blending traditional techniques with modern innovations.
Trend Adoption: The breweries in Gilbert have shown a keen interest in adopting novel brewing methods. Incorporating technology such as automation and precision fermentation systems is likely to result in more consistent quality and flavor profiles, pushing the limits of creativity in craft beer.
Sustainable Practices: Desert Monks Brewing Co. and other local breweries have started using recycled wastewater for beer production, which may set a precedent for sustainability in brewing operations around Arizona.
Community-Based Events: Taprooms like Tap Dragon Craft Beer & Wine are becoming community hubs, and this trend is expected to continue. The integration of social spaces within breweries offers a unique experience that extends beyond the beer itself.
Expansion of Local Breweries:
Ongoing Projects: New taprooms are scheduled to open in the area, indicating expansion within the local market.
Collaborations: Partnerships between breweries and local businesses are on the rise, which may lead to innovative beer styles and flavors.
Education Focus: As interest in craft beer grows, there could be an increase in educational initiatives to inform consumers about the complexity and diversity of beer, further strengthening the local craft beer culture.
In summary, Gilbert's future in craft beer looks promising, with local breweries embracing new trends and technology, sustainable practices, and community-based approaches. Through these avenues, they are poised to deliver exciting experiences to craft beer enthusiasts.
