Phoenix Beer

Book excerpt: Phoenix's brewing history dates back to the mid-1800s, when small breweries had to contend with brackish water, searing desert heat and no refrigeration. By the time Prohibition arrived, the state's breweries were tapped out. It wasn't until the 1930s that Arizona Brewing Company left the first indelible mark on the Copper State's thirst. When its last call came, a new force called Four Peaks rose from the ashes as majestically as the mountains for which it is named. Author Dave Clark guides you from the area's beer icons of yesterday to the rapidly evolving brewing scene of today. Discover and appreciate Phoenix beer, from the classic, clean pilsner from Helton Brewing that rivals Germany's best to Fate's local taste of the Southwest, Hatch Chile Gatos.