Scottsdale, AZ Local Craft Beer Guide

Your Ultimate Directory

Scottsdale, Arizona has established itself as a vibrant hub for craft beer enthusiasts. The city's local brewing scene is teeming with innovative small breweries that reflect its unique Southwestern character. From family-owned operations to Mexican-inspired brewhouses, these establishments offer an array of handcrafted beers that cater to a wide range of taste preferences. Visitors and locals alike have the opportunity to explore a variety of flavors, from traditional ales and lagers to more adventurous brews infused with local Arizona cactus fruit and indigenous botanicals.

The breweries here are known for their dedication to the craft and for creating a welcoming atmosphere that is all about the beer. Goldwater Brewing Co., an example of Scottsdale's brewing excellence, operates a sleek, no-frills taproom where visitors can taste beers poured straight from the tank. Each brewery in Scottsdale contributes to a larger tapestry of local businesses supporting the community's growing appetite for quality, handcrafted beer.

With numerous breweries scattered throughout the city, Scottsdale offers a comprehensive craft beer experience. Maps and guides are available for those looking to embark on a self-guided brewery tour. Beer connoisseurs can easily find a favorite spot to savor a pint or discover new, innovative flavors. Craft beer shops complement the breweries, providing a selection of both local and international options that ensure every visitor can find something to suit their palate.

History of Craft Beer in Scottsdale

The craft beer scene in Scottsdale has evolved significantly, marked by collaboration and innovation. The journey of craft beer in this region reflects local flavors and brewing mastery.

Early Beginnings and Growth

In Scottsdale, Arizona, craft beer's inception can be traced back to the greater appreciation for locally sourced and meticulously crafted beers. The first wave of local craft brewing saw enthusiasts and entrepreneurs coming together to create unique brews that highlighted regional tastes.

Scottsdale's craft beer scene experienced rapid growth. Enthusiasts quickly transitioned from homebrewing to establishing professional breweries. It became commonplace to encounter a diverse array of beers crafted to perfection, offering something for every type of beer lover.

Scottsdale's Brewing Tradition

Scottsdale has forged a brewing tradition that emphasizes quality and diversity. Local brewers draw from a palette of flavors that are as dynamic as the Arizona landscape. It was during the 1950s that A-1 became a top-selling beer in Arizona, laying the foundation for a rich brewing lineage.

Brewers in Scottsdale have continued this heritage, producing a variety of craft beers. As veterans of the industry aligned with local talent, breweries in Scottsdale thrived, creating a vibrant craft beer culture. This culture is sustained by those who strive to elevate the local beer experience, ensuring each pint poured is a reflection of a history rich with character and dedication.

Guide to Scottsdale's Craft Breweries

Scottsdale's vibrant craft beer scene is as diverse as it is dynamic, offering a range of full-flavored brews for every palate. Visitors and locals alike can immerse themselves in an array of family-owned breweries, each with unique offerings from traditional styles to innovative creations, in settings that often boast pet-friendly patios and a welcoming atmosphere.

Goldwater Brewing Company

Goldwater Brewing Co. is a family-owned and operated brewery situated in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale. Their taproom serves up to 12 local beers, all freshly poured from the tanks. Noteworthy is their "Desert Rose," which is crafted with organic Arizona cactus fruit.

Fate Brewing Company

Fate Brewing Company offers a distinct craft beer experience at 1312 N Scottsdale Rd. With a reputation for creativity, Fate often features an eclectic rotation of seasonal and core beers. This Scottsdale destination is known for not only its craft brews but also its welcoming ambiance.

Wren House Brewing Company

Wren House Brewing Company stands as a celebrated part of Scottsdale's craft beer community, though it's primarily located in Phoenix. Their offerings are celebrated for both their traditional styles and innovative twists, leveraging local ingredients to create beers with a distinctly Arizona flavor.

Four Peaks Brewing

Four Peaks Brewing is a true pioneer among Arizona’s craft breweries and offers a variety of award-winning beers. The brewery has established a formidable reputation for its flavorful beers and has become a staple in the Scottsdale beer scene, with a notable selection including their flagship "Kilt Lifter" Scottish-style ale.

PHX Beer Co

PHX Beer Co is an emerging favorite within Scottsdale's craft beer landscape. They brew a range of accessible yet complex beers, catering to both the casual drinker and the beer aficionado. This brewery prides itself on creating beers that reflect the spirit and lifestyle of Phoenix and its surrounding communities.

Each brewery reflects a facet of Scottsdale's craft beer personality, from family-owned establishments to dog-friendly venues like OHSO Brewery. They collectively represent the dedication to quality and community that Scottsdale breweries stand for, making the city a must-visit destination for beer lovers.

Exploring Beers of Scottsdale

Scottsdale, AZ is quickly becoming a hotspot for craft brew enthusiasts, featuring an array of breweries with a wide selection of unique flavors and styles. The local breweries excel in creating beers that are distinctive to the area, ranging from vibrant IPAs to rich stouts.

Unique Local Flavors and Styles

Scottsdale's craft breweries put their own desert twist on classic and innovative styles. Goldwater Brewing Co. is known for its Desert Rose, an ale steeped with local cactus fruit, providing a taste that's both refreshingly tart and subtly sweet. This reflects the brewery's focus on incorporating indigenous ingredients into their beverages. Sours and citrus-infused IPAs are also commonly found, representing the vibrant and zesty flavors preferred by many Scottsdalians. These local touches provide a sense of place, immersing beer lovers in the region's culture and natural offerings.

• Popular Local Styles:

  • Citrus-infused IPAs

  • Sours with native fruits

  • Hefeweizen with southwestern twists

Popular Beers and Seasonal Specials

Beyond the consistent favorites, Scottsdale breweries offer a variety of popular beers and seasonal specials that cater to a diverse palette. For instance, Fate Brewing Company attracts customers with an appealing selection, like the creatively crafted Candy Bar Milk Stout, which boasts rich, decadent flavors reminiscent of a liquid dessert. Seasonal specials are eagerly anticipated, with limited-time offerings such as IPA variations that incorporate seasonal fruits and spices. These timely brews provide an ever-changing beer experience that encourages locals and tourists to frequent these establishments all year round.

• Seasonal Highlights:

  • Spring: Floral IPAs and light stouts

  • Summer: Refreshing citrus IPAs

  • Fall: Pumpkin spiced ales

  • Winter: Bold, warming stouts

Brewery Experience in Scottsdale

Scottsdale is home to an array of breweries that offer tastings, tours, and a chance to experience the local beer culture. Visitors can enjoy a range of brewery experiences from casual tastings to in-depth tours and delightful brewpubs serving food that complements the beer offerings.

Tasting Rooms and Beer Samplings

Scottsdale's craft breweries excel in providing an intimate tasting room experience. Goldwater Brewing Co. is a standout with its selection of 12 local beers on tap, straight from the tanks. Beer enthusiasts should try the Desert Rose, a unique concoction infused with organic Arizona cactus fruit. Many breweries also offer an Ale Trail, where guests can explore various venues and indulge in samples of diverse beer styles.

• Craft 64 stands out for wood-fired pizzas that perfectly pair with their craft beer selection.

• Happy hour enthusiasts will find that many breweries offer special pricing during these times, allowing for an economical tasting journey.

Tours and Behind-the-Scenes

For those curious about the brewing process, some Scottsdale breweries provide engaging tours. These behind-the-scenes explorations showcase the intricate craft of beer-making from hops to fermentation tanks. During tours, visitors often have the opportunity to learn directly from the brewers, gaining insights into the creativity and skill that shapes each unique brew.

• Scottsdale Brewery Tours offer a curated way to experience multiple breweries in a single afternoon, ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the local brewing scene.

Brewpubs and Eats

Brewpubs in Scottsdale not only focus on exceptional beer but also on offering delectable eats that enhance the brewery experience. Establishments such as O.H.S.O. Brewery + Distillery and Brat Haus provide a rustic, cozy atmosphere alongside a hearty menu.

• O.H.S.O. Brewery + Distillery is recognized for its craft beers and an extensive menu that satisfies both casual diners and food aficionados.

• Brat Haus presents a variety of sausages and other well-matched bites, ensuring a fulfilling meal with your beer.

Scottsdale's brewery scene is as much about the experience as it is about the beer. Each location offers a unique slice of Arizona's craft beer culture, inviting both locals and visitors to unwind and savor the flavors of the Southwest.

Events and Community

Scottsdale’s craft beer scene is as vibrant as it is welcoming, offering numerous events that showcase the creativity and camaraderie of local brewers. These occasions range from local gatherings to notable beer competitions, fostering a sense of community among beer enthusiasts and celebrating the finest in craft beer innovation.

Beer Festivals and Competitions

• Arizona Strong Beer Festival: A standout event, held annually at 7555 N. Pima Road in Scottsdale, features over 500 unique brews from more than 170 breweries. Designed for the true beer aficionado, the festival offers a chance to experience some of the most exclusive and sought-after craft beers.

• Goldwater Brewing Co.: Engages the community with events in its Old Town taproom, showcasing 12 local beers direct from the tanks. The brewery’s Desert Rose, infused with organic Arizona cactus fruit, exemplifies the local flavor and innovation celebrated at these festivals.

Local Beer Culture and Community Events

Celebrations:

• Arizona Craft Brewers Guild Anniversary: Marks 25 years with year-long festivities, highlighting the state's craft beer triumphs, including Arizona's impressive performance at the prestigious World Beer Cup.

• Community Brew Day: Events such as Greenwood Community Brew Day offer hands-on experiences, inviting everyone from novices to expert brewers to partake and contribute to the vibrant local craft beer tapestry.

Networking:

In addition to festivals, a variety of informal meet-ups and planned events provide relaxed settings for community members to network, share brewing techniques, and nurture a collective passion for craft beer. The support and participation in these events not only enrich the local culture but also contribute to the national craft beer movement, with Arizona brewers often recognized at the Great American Beer Festival and other significant competitions.

Pairing and Dining

Exploring Scottsdale's craft beer scene goes hand in hand with enjoying local culinary delights. Expertly pairing beer with food elevates the dining experience, allowing the flavors to complement each other.

Food Pairings and Recommendations

When selecting food to accompany craft beers, one should consider both contrast and complement. For example, wood-fired pizzas offer a robust flavor that is enhanced by hoppy IPAs, allowing the bitterness of the beer to cut through the richness of the cheese and charred crust. Similarly, sausages with their savory spices pair well with darker ales or lagers, as the malt sweetness complements the meat's flavors.

Here is a brief guide on pairing:

• IPA: Pairs well with spicy dishes and fried foods (What wine goes well with fried foods?).

• Stout: Best enjoyed with chocolate desserts (What wine goes well with chocolate desserts?) or hearty stews.

• Ale: Complements burgers, wings, and other pub fare.

• Lager: Works well with light seafood dishes (What wine goes well with seafood dishes?) or a plate of nachos.

Craft Beer and Dining Spots

One should not miss Scottsdale's combinations of craft beer and exquisite dine-in experiences. Craft 64 in Scottsdale emerges as a stellar example, with its selection of local brews paired with their signature wood-fired pizzas made from scratch. Here, diners can experience the subtle interplay of flavors between craft ales and artisanal pizza toppings. (What wine goes well with pizza toppings?)

For those with a palate for wine and craft beer, Scapegoat Beer and Wine offers an intimate atmosphere where one can indulge in both. Their handpicked selection ensures that whether one opts for a beer or a glass of wine, there will be a menu of small bites and meals tailored to elevate the chosen beverage.

Reviews and Recommendations

When considering the Scottsdale craft beer scene, reviews and recommendations play an essential role in guiding both locals and visitors to the top breweries and the most outstanding beers. These insights come from a variety of ratings and expert opinions, each with a unique perspective on the must-visit venues and can't-miss brews.

Venue Reviews and Ratings

Scottsdale's craft beer establishments are known for their quality and ambiance, with Goldwater Brewing Co. often praised for its focused approach to beer crafting, particularly highlighted by its Desert Rose flavored with Arizona cactus fruit. Similarly, PHX Beer Company garners attention for its combination of scenic views, enticing tap room, and community-centric atmosphere, alongside an array of craft beers. These locations, and others like them, are frequently celebrated for their unique contributions to local beer culture, as evidenced by positive customer feedback.

• Goldwater Brewing Co.: Appreciated for unique brews like Desert Rose.

• PHX Beer Company: Known for serene lake views and a welcoming atmosphere.

Top Picks by Local Experts

Local experts often pinpoint Total Wine & More for its unparalleled assortment of craft beers, displaying a range that impresses both casual drinkers and connoisseurs. Additionally, accolades are routinely awarded to breweries that excel in competitions, affirming Scottsdale's status within the craft beer genre. These expert opinions not only inform enthusiasts about the best breweries to explore but also which award-winning beers to sample.

• Total Wine & More: Extensive craft beer selection.

• (Awards & Accolades): Signals reputable breweries and exceptional beers.

Visitor's Information

For those planning to explore the burgeoning craft beer scene in Scottsdale, Arizona, the following information provides essential details on brewery locations and ideal visiting hours. This guide aims to ensure visitors get the most out of their Scottsdale craft beer experience.

Brewery Map and Locations

Scottsdale's craft beer aficionados often start their journey in Old Town Scottsdale, which is home to Goldwater Brewing Co. at 3608 N Scottsdale Road. Other notable spots in Scottsdale include Fate Brewing Company located at 1312 N Scottsdale Rd and Loco Patron Mexican Brewery at 14950 N Northsight Blvd. Scapegoat Beer and Wine is found at 7150 E 5th Avenue. Each of these locations promises a unique blend of flavorful brews and friendly service that caters to a diverse crowd, with some spots even offering a dog-friendly environment.

Scottsdale Craft Beer Locations:

• Old Town Scottsdale: Goldwater Brewing Co.

• Scottsdale Road: Fate Brewing Company, Goldwater Brewing Co.

• Northsight Blvd: Loco Patron Mexican Brewery

• East 5th Avenue: Scapegoat Beer and Wine

Hours of Operation and Best Times to Visit

The best times to visit these breweries generally vary, but many start serving in the early afternoon and continue into the evening. For example, Goldwater Brewing Co. has a reputation for pouring their beers straight from the tanks, so connoisseurs looking to taste the freshest beers should consider visiting during opening hours. Before planning a visit, one should check the specific hours of each establishment, as they might have different operating times. Early evenings are typically the most opportune moments to enjoy a bustling atmosphere without the late-night crowds.

Typical Brewery Hours of Operation:

• Weekdays: Early afternoon to late evening

• Weekends: May open earlier and close later

Visitors are recommended to verify with individual breweries for precise timings and the availability of dog-friendly areas, if applicable.