Tempe, Arizona has emerged as a vibrant hub for craft beer enthusiasts. The city boasts a growing number of local breweries and taprooms, each offering unique flavors and experiences. Tempe is home to 9 craft breweries, with over 75 more in the surrounding Phoenix area.
Beer lovers can explore a diverse range of brewing styles and tastes across Tempe’s craft beer scene. From innovative microbreweries to established local favorites, the options are plentiful. Visitors and residents alike can sample everything from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts at various locations throughout the city.
The craft beer culture in Tempe extends beyond just breweries. Bottle shops and beer-focused bars add to the rich tapestry of the local beer landscape. These establishments often feature rotating taps and curated selections, providing even more opportunities to discover new and exciting brews.
History of Tempe Craft Beer
Tempe’s craft beer scene has deep roots in Arizona’s brewing history. The city’s journey into craft brewing began in the late 1980s, coinciding with the nationwide microbrewery movement.
Four Peaks Brewing Company, founded in 1996, played a pivotal role in establishing Tempe as a craft beer destination. Their flagship Scottish-style ale, Kilt Lifter, quickly became Arizona’s best-selling craft beer.
In the early 2000s, more breweries began to emerge in Tempe. Sleepy Dog Brewing and Huss Brewing Co. opened their doors, adding diversity to the local beer landscape.
The 2010s saw a significant expansion of Tempe’s craft beer scene. New breweries like Pedal Haus and The Shop Beer Co. entered the market, each bringing unique flavors and brewing styles.
Tempe’s universities, particularly Arizona State University, have influenced the craft beer culture. Many brewers and beer enthusiasts developed their passion while studying in the city.
Today, Tempe boasts a thriving craft beer community with over a dozen breweries and taprooms. The city’s craft beer scene continues to evolve, attracting both locals and tourists eager to explore its diverse offerings.
Key Breweries in Tempe
Tempe boasts a vibrant craft beer scene with several noteworthy breweries. These establishments offer a diverse range of beer styles, from traditional favorites to innovative creations, showcasing the city’s brewing talent and passion for craft beer.
Four Peaks Brewing Company
Four Peaks Brewing Company stands as a Tempe institution. Founded in 1996, it has become one of Arizona’s largest breweries. Their flagship beer, Kilt Lifter, a Scottish-style ale, has won numerous awards and gained widespread popularity.
Four Peaks operates out of a historic red brick building that once housed a creamery. The brewery’s taproom offers a welcoming atmosphere for beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
Their beer lineup includes year-round favorites and seasonal specialties. Four Peaks has expanded its distribution beyond Arizona, bringing Tempe’s craft beer to a wider audience.
Huss Brewing Company
Huss Brewing Company has made a significant impact on Tempe’s craft beer landscape since its founding in 2013. The brewery is known for its Scottsdale Blonde and Papago Orange Blossom beers.
Huss operates a taproom in Tempe featuring 24 beers on tap. Visitors can sample Huss favorites alongside guest craft beers, wines, and ciders.
While food isn’t available on-site, guests are welcome to bring their own or order local delivery. This flexibility adds to the relaxed atmosphere of the taproom.
The Shop Beer Co
The Shop Beer Co has quickly become a favorite among Tempe’s craft beer enthusiasts. Their flagship IPA, Church Music, has garnered praise for its balanced flavor profile.
Located in a renovated mid-century building, The Shop offers a unique taproom experience. The brewery focuses on creating innovative beers using local ingredients when possible.
Every Wednesday, The Shop features a special “Randall Wednesday” event. This showcases a unique infused beer concoction, highlighting their commitment to creativity in brewing.
Pedal Haus Brewery
Pedal Haus Brewery combines craft beer with a lively atmosphere on Mill Avenue. The brewery has gained recognition for its European-inspired beers and commitment to sustainability.
Their spacious indoor-outdoor setup includes a large patio, making it a popular spot for social gatherings. Pedal Haus offers a diverse beer menu, featuring both traditional styles and experimental brews.
The brewery’s name reflects its bicycle-friendly ethos, with ample bike parking available. Pedal Haus also serves a full food menu, pairing well with their craft beers.
Goldwater Brewing Co
Goldwater Brewing Co brings its craft beer expertise to Tempe with a taproom location. The brewery is known for its innovative approach to beer-making and unique flavor combinations.
Their taproom offers a rotating selection of Goldwater beers, allowing visitors to sample a range of styles. The space provides a comfortable environment for enjoying craft beer and socializing.
Goldwater’s commitment to quality and creativity has earned them a loyal following in the Tempe craft beer community.
Fate Brewing Company
Fate Brewing Company has established itself as a key player in Tempe’s craft beer scene. The brewery focuses on creating flavorful, well-balanced beers across various styles.
Fate’s taproom offers a welcoming atmosphere for beer enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy their year-round offerings alongside seasonal and experimental brews.
The brewery’s commitment to quality and consistency has helped them build a strong reputation among Tempe’s craft beer drinkers.
Hundred Mile Brewing Company
Hundred Mile Brewing Company is a newer addition to Tempe’s craft beer landscape. The brewery emphasizes using local ingredients and supporting the Arizona community.
Their taproom provides a modern, inviting space for visitors to enjoy their craft beers. Hundred Mile offers a diverse range of beer styles, catering to various taste preferences.
The brewery’s name reflects their commitment to sourcing ingredients within a hundred-mile radius when possible, showcasing Arizona’s agricultural bounty.
Catalyst Crafted Ales
Catalyst Crafted Ales brings a scientific approach to brewing in Tempe. The brewery focuses on creating precise, well-crafted beers across a range of styles.
Their taproom offers a unique experience, blending elements of a traditional brewery with a laboratory-like atmosphere. Visitors can sample Catalyst’s core beers alongside experimental brews.
Catalyst’s commitment to innovation and quality has quickly earned them recognition in Tempe’s competitive craft beer scene.
Types of Beers Available
Tempe’s craft beer scene offers a diverse array of styles to suit every palate. From hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts and tart sours, local breweries showcase their creativity and skill.
India Pale Ales
IPAs reign supreme in Tempe’s craft beer landscape. Breweries like Four Peaks and Huss Brewing Company offer traditional West Coast IPAs bursting with citrus and pine notes.
New England-style hazy IPAs have also gained popularity, featuring juicy tropical flavors and a softer mouthfeel. Some taprooms rotate experimental IPA variants, incorporating unique ingredients or brewing techniques.
Many local brewers focus on showcasing Arizona-grown hops in their IPAs, creating beers with a distinct regional character.
Stouts and Porters
Dark beer enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in Tempe. Rich, roasty stouts and smooth porters are staples at most local breweries.
Four Peaks’ Oatmeal Stout is a year-round favorite, while seasonal offerings like imperial stouts and barrel-aged variants appear in colder months. Coffee-infused stouts are particularly popular, often featuring beans from local roasters.
Some breweries experiment with dessert-inspired stouts, incorporating flavors like chocolate, vanilla, or coconut.
Sours and Goses
Tart and refreshing sour beers have found a niche in Tempe’s hot climate. Local brewers produce a range of styles, from traditional German goses to modern American wild ales.
Fruit-forward sours are common, utilizing local produce when possible. Some breweries maintain dedicated sour programs, allowing for complex, barrel-aged creations.
Goses, with their hint of salt and coriander, offer a unique twist on the sour beer experience and pair well with Tempe’s culinary scene.
Unique Local Flavors
Tempe’s brewers take pride in crafting beers that reflect the local environment and culture. The Koffee Kolsch, a light-bodied beer infused with coffee, is a prime example of this innovative spirit.
Desert-inspired beers incorporating prickly pear, mesquite, or agave are not uncommon. Some breweries collaborate with local farms to source ingredients, resulting in truly farm-to-glass experiences.
Seasonal brews often celebrate Arizona’s heritage, drawing inspiration from regional foods, landmarks, or historical events.
Craft Beer Tasting Venues
Tempe offers several exceptional venues for craft beer enthusiasts to explore a wide range of flavors and styles. These establishments provide unique tasting experiences, showcasing local and regional brews in inviting atmospheres.
Taste of Tops
Taste of Tops stands out as a premier craft beer destination in Tempe. This cozy taproom features an ever-rotating selection of 31 beers on draft, ensuring a fresh and diverse tasting experience with each visit.
The knowledgeable staff provides expert guidance, helping patrons navigate the extensive beer menu. Taste of Tops also offers a curated bottle selection for those looking to take their favorites home.
Regular events, including tap takeovers and meet-the-brewer nights, enhance the tasting experience. The venue’s intimate setting encourages conversation and beer appreciation among patrons.
Spokes on Southern
Spokes on Southern combines a passion for cycling with craft beer appreciation. This unique venue features a spacious beer garden, perfect for enjoying Tempe’s pleasant weather while sipping on local brews.
The tap list showcases a thoughtful selection of craft beers, with an emphasis on Arizona breweries. Cyclists can take advantage of bike racks and repair stations, making it a popular spot for post-ride refreshments.
Regular live music performances add to the lively atmosphere. Spokes on Southern also hosts beer pairing events, offering patrons the opportunity to explore new flavor combinations.
Boulders on Broadway
Boulders on Broadway offers a laid-back environment for craft beer tasting. The venue boasts an impressive selection of 30 rotating taps, featuring both local and national craft breweries.
The staff is well-versed in beer styles and flavors, providing personalized recommendations based on patrons’ preferences. Boulders’ spacious patio is a popular spot for outdoor tasting sessions.
Weekly beer specials and tasting flights allow visitors to sample a variety of brews. The venue also hosts trivia nights and beer release parties, fostering a sense of community among craft beer enthusiasts.
Freely Taproom
Freely Taproom provides a modern and inviting space for craft beer exploration. This stylish venue offers 24 taps of carefully curated craft beers, with a focus on innovative and experimental brews.
The taproom’s knowledgeable bartenders offer insights into each beer’s flavor profile and brewing process. Freely Taproom also features a self-serve tap wall, allowing patrons to sample different beers at their own pace.
Regular beer education events and brewing demonstrations cater to those looking to deepen their craft beer knowledge. The venue’s sleek interior and communal seating encourage socializing and beer discussions among patrons.
Plan Your Brewery Visit
Tempe’s craft beer scene offers exciting opportunities for beer enthusiasts. Explore the city’s best breweries with helpful resources and seasonal events.
Brewery Map and Tours
Tempe’s brewery map makes planning visits easy. The map marks locations of all local breweries, allowing visitors to create custom routes. Several companies offer guided brewery tours, providing transportation and insider knowledge. These tours often include tastings at 3-4 breweries over 3-4 hours.
Popular stops include Pedal Haus Brewery on Mill Avenue and Huss Brewing Company’s Tempe Taproom. Both offer flights for sampling multiple beers. Pedal Haus features an expansive patio, while Huss boasts 24 taps with rotating selections.
Seasonal Activities
Spring brings exciting beer events to Tempe. The Arizona Craft Beer Festival in October showcases the state’s best breweries at Centerpoint Plaza. During MLB Spring Training, many taprooms offer baseball-themed specials and viewing parties.
Summer sees Arizona State University students flock to brewery patios. Pedal Haus hosts outdoor movie nights, while other venues feature live music. Fall and winter are ideal for brewery-hopping, with cooler temperatures perfect for patio drinking.
Many Tempe breweries participate in Phoenix Beer Week each November. This 10-day celebration includes special releases, food pairings, and meet-the-brewer events across the metro area.
The Community of Beer Enthusiasts
Tempe boasts a vibrant community of beer enthusiasts who are passionate about craft brews. These aficionados regularly gather at local breweries and taprooms to share their love for unique flavors and brewing techniques.
Beer enthusiasts in Tempe often participate in tasting events, brewery tours, and beer festivals. These occasions provide opportunities to sample new releases and connect with fellow craft beer lovers.
Many local beer enthusiasts are active on social media platforms, sharing reviews and recommendations of their favorite Tempe brews. This online community helps spread the word about new offerings and hidden gems in the area.
Some dedicated beer enthusiasts in Tempe even take up homebrewing as a hobby. They experiment with different ingredients and styles, sometimes drawing inspiration from the city’s professional brewers.
Local beer clubs and meetup groups bring together enthusiasts for regular tastings and discussions. These gatherings foster a sense of camaraderie and knowledge-sharing among Tempe’s craft beer community.
Tempe’s beer enthusiasts play a crucial role in supporting the local craft beer scene. Their enthusiasm and loyalty help drive innovation and quality among the city’s breweries, ensuring a thriving craft beer culture.
