Phoenix, AZ Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Insider Map to the Best Brews
Phoenix, Arizona offers a diverse and vibrant craft beer scene that reflects the city's dynamic culture and inventive spirit. The local breweries in Phoenix are known for their exceptional creativity, using Arizona's unique flavors and ingredients to create a wide range of craft beers. These local establishments brew an array of styles, from refreshing pilsners to rich and bold stouts, catering to various palates and preferences.
Phoenix's craft beer enthusiasts can explore a collection of breweries that are firmly rooted in the community, with many brewers prioritizing locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices. The Phoenix brewery landscape is not only about the inventive brews but also about the experiences offered. Many breweries boast welcoming atmospheres, often with tasting rooms and tours that invite both locals and visitors to delve into the brewing process and enjoy the finished product amidst the city's scenic backdrop.
Whether one is a seasoned beer aficionado or new to the craft beer world, Phoenix's brewery scene provides an expansive opportunity to discover unique and flavorful beers. Each establishment contributes its own distinctive touch to the city's growing reputation as a hub for craft beer, with some gaining accolades and building a following that reaches well beyond the borders of Arizona. The shared enthusiasm for craft beer among Phoenix's residents and brewers alike has cultivated a close-knit community that celebrates local craftsmanship.
History of Craft Beer in Phoenix
The craft beer scene in Phoenix has a rich history, marked by its resilient evolution from early roots to a boom in award-winning breweries.
Early Beginnings
The genesis of Phoenix's brewing history can trace its origins to German immigrants of the 19th century. These pioneers laid the groundwork for what would become a thriving brewing culture. The city's craft beer journey, however, faced significant obstacles. With the inception of Prohibition, brewing activities came to a grinding halt. It wasn't until Prohibition ended in 1933 that Phoenix saw its brewing arts revive. Arizonans, eager for local brews, supported the post-Prohibition era's lone startup, the Arizona Brewing Company.
Recent Growth
The foundation laid by early brewing efforts paved the way for Phoenix's current craft beer renaissance. Since 2013, Phoenix has experienced a surge in the establishment of craft breweries. Pioneers like the owners of Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co., Jonathan Buford and Patrick Ware, have pushed the boundaries of brewing by using local ingredients to craft unique beers. This trend led to the opening of Gilbert's first craft brewery and later, a beer garden in downtown Phoenix's Roosevelt Row. The success of these establishments has inspired others, contributing to the city's reputation for having an award-winning craft beer scene that attracts aficionados from all over.
Phoenix's Top Craft Breweries
Phoenix is home to an impressive array of craft breweries. Each offers a unique blend of local flavors, innovative brewing techniques, and a commitment to quality that stands out in the bustling city's beer scene. Below is a concise guide to some of the most esteemed craft breweries in Phoenix.
Huss Brewing Co
Huss Brewing is a family-owned establishment known for its inclusive atmosphere and diverse beer selection. Their flagship brew, the Scottsdale Blonde, is a local favorite, while their more adventurous varieties constantly attract beer connoisseurs.
Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co
Arizona Wilderness Brewing is celebrated for its creative use of local ingredients and its commitment to environmental sustainability. Their DIPA and sour beers are particularly noted for their complex flavors that reflect the Arizona landscape.
Wren House Brewing Co
Wren House Brewing Co stands out with its small-batch, meticulously crafted beers. The Wrenovation IPA and Jomax Oatmeal Stout showcase their knack for producing balanced and full-bodied beers.
Four Peaks Brewing Company
Four Peaks has earned acclaim far beyond Phoenix borders. Known for their award-winning Kilt Lifter Scottish-style ale, this brewery has become an institution that embodies the spirit and flavor of the region.
The Shop Beer Co
With a flair for creativity and experimentation, The Shop Beer Co has rapidly gained popularity. They're especially known for their range of IPAs and their vibrant cans that mirror the vividness and personality found in each brew.
Geographical Guide to Breweries
In the expansive Phoenix metropolitan area, known as the Valley of the Sun, the craft beer scene is as diverse as its geography. From innovative downtown Phoenix brewpubs to the laid-back alehouses of Scottsdale, each region offers a distinct beer-drinking experience, reflecting the local culture and community.
Downtown Phoenix Breweries
The heart of the city, Downtown Phoenix, is home to an array of breweries that exemplify urban craft beer culture. Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co. is renowned for their creative use of local ingredients. This area also boasts a vibrant atmosphere with its growing cluster of taprooms and gastropubs that are often within walking distance of one another.
Scottsdale and Paradise Valley
Further north, the upscale neighborhoods of Scottsdale and Paradise Valley showcase breweries that often pair their bespoke beers with sophisticated ambience. These areas are perfect for those looking for a refined beer-tasting experience. Many establishments feature craft beers that cater to both casual drinkers and connoisseurs alike.
Tempe and Mesa
To the east, Tempe and Mesa attract a younger, energetic crowd with their university ties and cultural diversity. Tempe’s craft beer scene is bustling with innovation, while Mesa offers a mix of established and up-and-coming breweries, providing a broad spectrum of styles and tastes to explore.
Chandler and Gilbert
In Chandler and Gilbert, the craft beer movement has embraced suburban growth, leading to the opening of breweries that serve as community focal points. These neighborhoods blend family-friendly environments with a passion for brewing, offering tours and tastings that spotlight their unique local flare.
Glendale and Peoria
Lastly, Glendale and Peoria on the northwest side of the metro area, have seen recent growth in their brewery offerings. These areas are developing their own beer identity, delivering a mix of traditional and avant-garde brews that mirror the pioneering spirit of the greater Phoenix locale.
Guide to Beer Styles and Brews
Phoenix boasts a myriad of craft breweries, each offering unique and flavorful beer styles. From traditional stouts and ales to innovative IPAs and sours, the city presents a diverse beer landscape to explore.
Ales and Stouts
Ales in Phoenix range from creamy Milk Stouts to robust Scotch Ales. One standard offering is the classic stout, characterized by its dark hue and rich, roasted malt flavors. Breweries may also offer variations like the Milk Stout, a sweeter stout brewed with lactose for a smooth texture and slight sweetness.
IPAs and Hops
IPAs, or India Pale Ales, are a fan favorite in Phoenix's beer scene, revered for their strong hoppy character and complexity. They range in bitterness and can offer a wide spectrum of flavors and aromas, from citrus to piney. Hop enthusiasts can expect a selection that includes everything from double IPAs to more balanced, session varieties.
Sours and Unique Flavors
For adventurous palates, Phoenix breweries concoct Sours and beers with unique flavor profiles. Fruited Sours, such as a Boysenberry Sour, meld tartness with the sweetness of fruit, while other sours may present a complex, tangy base that's both refreshing and intricate. These beers often push the boundaries of traditional beer styles, creating unforgettable tasting experiences.
Brew Pub and Taproom Experiences
In Phoenix's craft beer scene, a variety of brewpubs and taprooms offer unique experiences ranging from gourmet food menus to live entertainment. These gathering places are not only about the quality of the beer but also about the ambiance they create for a community of beer enthusiasts.
Food Menus and Pairings
Patrons can expect diverse food menus at Phoenix brewpubs that often feature artisanal burgers and other pub fare designed to complement the wide selection of craft beers. Pairing suggestions may be provided by knowledgeable staff to enhance the tasting experience, such as matching a hoppy IPA with a spicy burger to balance the flavors.
Burgers and Beers: Look for brewpubs that pair their in-house brews with gourmet burgers, often highlighting local ingredients.
Pairing Suggestions: Staff typically assist with recommendations to elevate both the culinary and beer tasting experience.
Live Music and Entertainment
Many Phoenix taprooms and beer gardens become dynamic social hubs thanks to their live music lineups, ranging from local bands to larger acts. The entertainment schedule often includes themed nights and may feature genres that appeal to a wide audience, creating an energetic backdrop for enjoying craft beer.
Live Music Schedule: Weekly live performances add to the vibrant atmosphere of Phoenix's craft beer venues.
Entertainment Variety: Themed events and diverse music genres cater to different tastes, ensuring that there's something for everyone.
Family-Friendly and Pet-Friendly Options
The inclusive nature of Phoenix's craft beer culture is evident in the family-friendly and pet-friendly options offered by many establishments. Beer gardens often provide a relaxed setting where the whole family – including furry members – can enjoy a sunny afternoon.
Family-Friendly Spaces: Some venues have spaces dedicated to those visiting with children, offering games and a safe environment.
Pet-Friendly Policies: Many taprooms welcome dogs and provide amenities like water bowls and treats to make them feel at home.
Phoenix's craft beer scene flourishes with brewpubs and taprooms that prioritize exceptional beer, tasty food, lively entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Seasonal and Special Release Beers
Phoenix's craft beer scene thrives on creativity, with local breweries often showcasing their brewing expertise through a variety of seasonal and limited edition beers. These offerings provide beer enthusiasts with unique tastes that capture the essence of the seasons or special occasions.
Seasonal Favorites
In Phoenix, breweries embrace the seasons by crafting beers that highlight the best of what each one has to offer. Summer might bring light and refreshing citrus-infused IPAs or pale ales, ideal for beating the heat. Fall sees the introduction of Oktoberfest lagers and pumpkin ales, rich in spices and warmth. Winter is celebrated with robust porters and stouts, often with festive additions like chocolate or coffee, and spring welcomes the arrival of hoppy and floral notes in beers that echo the renewal of the landscape.
Summer: Citrus IPAs, Pale Ales
Fall: Oktoberfest Lagers, Pumpkin Ales
Winter: Chocolate Porters, Coffee Stouts
Spring: Hoppy Ales, Floral Lagers
Limited Edition Beers
Local craft breweries often release limited edition beers that quickly become the talk of the town. These brews are typically available in short runs, during specific events, or as experimental batches. They range from rich and complex barrel-aged stouts to innovative sour ales infused with local fruits or botanicals. Limited edition beers can also include collaborations between breweries, bringing together the best attributes of each to create a unique and memorable drinking experience.
Barrel-Aged: Complex stouts aged in whiskey or wine barrels.
Collaborations: Unique brews created by two or more breweries.
Experimental Batches: Small-scale releases that test new flavors or brewing methods.
Local beer connoisseurs eagerly anticipate these releases, often marking their calendars and lining up to try them before they sell out. These beverages reflect the dynamic craft beer culture in Phoenix and the endless variety of beers that local breweries can produce.
Beer Tours and Events
Phoenix's beer scene offers a diverse range of events and tours that cater to both casual fans and aficionados alike. These experiences allow enthusiasts to explore local flavors, learn about brewing processes, and enjoy the vibrant beer culture that Phoenix has to offer.
Craft Beer Festivals
Phoenix hosts several craft beer festivals throughout the year, where one can sample a variety of beers from different breweries. These festivals often feature exclusive seasonal releases and special brews, alongside food pairings and live entertainment. They provide an excellent opportunity to discover new favorite beers and interact with local brewers.
Brewery Tours
Brewery tours in Phoenix, such as those offered by City Brew Tours Phoenix, combine the joy of beer tasting with educational experiences. Participants can go behind the scenes of craft breweries to see the brewing process firsthand. These tours typically include:
Tastings: A selection of beers to sample
Food Pairings: Often included to complement the beer
Transportation: Generally provided between locations
Guidance: Knowledgeable guides share insights into the beer-making process
For those looking to delve deeper into the city's beer culture, these tours can provide a well-rounded experience of Phoenix's craft beer landscape.
Brewery Operations and Sustainability
Breweries in Phoenix are increasingly focusing on sustainability, adopting eco-friendly practices, and driving community support. Their operations are not just about making great beer but also about contributing positively to the environment and local economy.
Sourcing Local Ingredients
Breweries like Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co. prioritize local ingredients, supporting area farms and reducing transportation emissions. This not only affirms their commitment to sustainability but also showcases unique Arizona flavors. Ingredients such as citrus, grains, and hops are often sourced from within the state, ensuring a fresher product and a smaller carbon footprint.
Local Hops: Some craft breweries have established connections with Arizona hop farms.
Citrus and Grains: Utilizing Arizona's abundant citrus and grains infuses local terroir into their brews.
Brewing Practices
Sustainable brewing practices are key components of Phoenix breweries' operations. Measures include water conservation techniques, energy-efficient brewing systems, and waste reduction strategies.
Water Conservation: Given Arizona's climate, breweries often employ water reclamation systems.
Energy Efficiency: Solar panels and energy-efficient equipment are increasingly common.
Greenwood Brewing highlights sustainability in its operations, often recycling spent grain for animal feed and employing energy-saving measures at the brewery.
Community Engagement
Phoenix breweries extend their sustainability efforts through community engagement. Educational initiatives, partnerships with local businesses, and events promote environmental awareness.
Events: They host events spotlighting sustainability, such as fundraisers for environmental causes.
Partnerships: Collaborations with local businesses make sustainability a shared goal.
By engaging with the community, breweries help foster a culture that values and invests in sustainable practices.
The Craft Beer Community
Phoenix's craft beer scene is vibrant and inclusive, with numerous online platforms and local clubs that cater to its diverse group of enthusiasts. These forums and clubs play a pivotal role in sustaining the city's thriving craft beer culture.
Online Forums and Meetups
Online forums and meetups are essential to Greater Phoenix's craft beer aficionados. These digital platforms enable members to share experiences, discuss favorite brews, and organize gatherings. Meetup.com, for instance, hosts the Phoenix Craft Beer Community, which brings together craft beer lovers who frequently meet in various pubs, breweries, and taphouses throughout the region. These meetups often focus on supporting local Arizona brewers and experiencing their latest offerings.
Craft Beer Enthusiast Clubs
Craft beer enthusiast clubs in Phoenix offer a more structured way for beer lovers to connect and learn. Members can participate in tastings, brewery tours, and educational events. Clubs like the Arizona Society of Homebrewers exemplify dedication to craft beer through their events and advocacy, promoting both homebrewing and the wider craft beer movement within the greater Phoenix area. They encourage local production and appreciation of craft beer's quality and variety.
Navigating Phoenix's Craft Beer Laws
In Phoenix, the evolution of beer laws over the years has fostered a thriving community for craft beer enthusiasts. Those interested in the city's beer culture should be aware of the specific regulations that govern the production, distribution, and consumption of beer.
Legal Drinking Age
In Phoenix, as in the rest of Arizona, the legal drinking age is set at 21 years old. Identification is required for purchase and consumption, and businesses are very diligent in checking IDs to comply with the law.
Licensing for Breweries
Breweries in Phoenix must navigate a series of licensing requirements to legally produce beer. The Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control issues several types of craft brewery licenses, with the Series 3 being the most common for microbreweries. This particular license allows breweries to both produce beer and sell it to the public, including on-site consumption and beer to-go.
Distribution: Breweries may self-distribute or work with distributors. Notably, mega-breweries like Anheuser-Busch often utilize extensive distribution networks.
Collaboration: Arizona law allows for in-state breweries to collaborate and share resources, benefiting smaller craft breweries.
Consumption Laws
Arizona has explicit consumption laws governing where and how beer can be consumed.
On-Site: Patrons may consume beer on the premises of the brewery.
Off-Site: Breweries may offer carry-out and to-go options for their products. However, there are restrictions on the hours and amount of beer that can be sold for off-premise consumption, following state liquor laws.
Public Consumption: Open container laws prohibit the public consumption of alcohol unless it's within a licensed premise or designated special event area.
By staying informed about Phoenix's specific craft beer laws, enthusiasts and brewers alike can fully enjoy and participate in the local craft beer scene.
Appendix: Glossary of Terms
Ale: A type of beer brewed using a warm fermentation method, resulting in a sweet, full-bodied, and fruity taste.
Craft Beer: Beer made in a traditional or non-mechanized way by a small brewery.
Fermentation: The chemical conversion of sugars into ethanol by yeast.
Hops: The flowers of the hop plant Humulus lupulus, used as a bittering, flavoring, and stability agent in beer.
Microbrewery: A brewery that produces a limited amount of beer, typically characterized by emphasis on quality, flavor, and brewing technique.
Pilsner: A type of pale lager that takes its name from the city of Pilsen, Bohemia, and is characterized by its clear golden color, light flavor, and crispy quality.
Saison: A pale ale that is highly carbonated, fruity, spicy, and often bottled conditioned. Originally from Wallonia, the French-speaking part of Belgium.
Stout: A dark, top-fermented beer with a number of variations, including dry stout, oatmeal stout, and imperial stout.
Table 1: Common Beer Types and Descriptions
Term Description
Ale Warm-fermented beer, sweet and full-bodied.
Craft Beer Traditionally made beer by a small brewery.
Fermentation Sugar converting into alcohol by yeast.
Hops Plant used for bittering, flavoring in beer.
Microbrewery A small-scale brewery focused on quality.
Pilsner Light lager with a clear golden color.
Saison Carbonated, fruity, and spicy pale ale.
Stout Dark beer with a variety of subtypes.
List 1: Key Ingredients in Beer Brewing
