7 Shocking Secrets Behind 4 Peaks Brewery Tempe AZ: The Ultimate Guide To Arizona's Craft Beer Legend
Step inside the historic red-brick walls of Four Peaks Brewing Company in Tempe, Arizona, and you are not just walking into a brewpub; you are entering the heart of Arizona’s craft beer history. Since its founding, Four Peaks has grown from a local favorite to the state’s largest and oldest craft brewery, establishing itself as an essential stop for beer lovers and history buffs alike. As of December 21, 2025, the brewery continues to blend its rich heritage with modern brewing innovation, making its 8th Street location a vibrant hub for community events, award-winning beers, and classic pub fare.
The Tempe location, particularly the flagship 8th Street Pub, is more than just a place to grab a pint of the legendary Kilt Lifter. It’s a testament to the founders' vision, housed in a truly unique and historic building that has anchored the local community for over a century. This deep dive reveals the hidden history, the must-try beers, and the latest news, including the highly anticipated 2025 Oktoberfest dates.
The Founders and the Historic 8th Street Foundation
The story of Four Peaks Brewing Company is inextricably linked to its founders and the landmark building they chose in Tempe. Their vision was to create a community-driven brewpub that produced exceptional beer, a goal they have consistently achieved since opening their doors.
Founders' Biography and Vision
- Andy Ingram: Co-founder and Brewmaster. Ingram is the driving force behind the brewery's recipes and is credited with developing many of the flagship beers. He is one of the three current owners.
- Jim Scussel: Co-founder. Scussel, along with Ingram and Schultz, was instrumental in establishing the brewery's initial operations and community presence.
- Randy Schultz: Co-founder. Schultz completes the trio of founders who continue to own and operate the company, guiding its growth from a local pub to a regional powerhouse.
- Arthur Craft: Also mentioned as a co-founder in some early accounts, indicating a strong initial partnership in the venture.
- Founding Date: The brewery was officially founded in 1995 and opened to the public on December 11, 1995, or early 1996, making it the oldest craft brewery in Arizona.
The Secret History of the 8th Street Building
The main brewery and pub at 1340 E 8th Street is housed in a structure that predates the brewery by over a century, contributing significantly to its unique atmosphere and topical authority.
- Original Construction: The construction of the building began as early as 1892.
- Former Use: Before becoming a brewery, the red-brick structure served as the Borden Co. Creamery and Ice Factory.
- Architectural Significance: The large, resilient building was perfectly suited for the industrial demands of a modern brewing operation, maintaining a historic aesthetic that draws visitors in. The "Resiliency of 8th Street" is a theme often associated with the building's long history.
- Location: The pub is situated near Arizona State University (ASU), making it a popular spot for both students and locals in the Tempe area.
The Essential Lineup: Flagship Beers and Seasonal Brews
Four Peaks has secured its place in the Arizona craft beer scene through a commitment to quality and consistency, producing a core lineup of beers that are instantly recognizable. Their dedication to blending tradition and innovation ensures a diverse selection for every palate.
The Legendary Flagships (The Core Entities)
The brewery’s success is built on a foundation of classic, award-winning brews that have become staples across the state. These beers are the cornerstone of the Four Peaks brand and are available year-round at the Tempe pub and beyond.
- Kilt Lifter Red Ale: This is arguably Four Peaks' most famous beer, a Scottish-style ale known for its smooth, malty flavor with notes of caramel and toffee. It is an American Amber/Red Ale and a true Arizona icon.
- 8th St Pale Ale: Named after the flagship location, this beer is a balanced and approachable American Pale Ale, a refreshing choice that pays homage to the brewery's roots.
- Peach Ale: A popular fruit beer, the Peach Ale is a light, crisp wheat ale infused with natural peach flavor, making it a perfect choice for the Arizona heat.
- Wow Wheat: An American Pale Wheat beer, known for its light body and refreshing character. A variant, Wow Berry, is also a popular choice.
- Hop Knot IPA: A classic India Pale Ale known for its prominent hop profile, catering to fans of bitter, aromatic beers.
- Golden Lager: A clean and crisp Helles Lager, offering a traditional, easy-drinking option.
The Rotating Seasonal and Specialty Beers
Beyond the mainstays, Four Peaks constantly rotates a selection of seasonal beers and limited releases, keeping the offerings fresh and providing LSI keywords like *Arizona microbrewery* and *craft beer innovation* with new material. Recent offerings have included:
- Cosmic Daydream: A hazy-style beer, reflecting the modern trend in craft brewing.
- Imperial Daydream: A stronger, more robust version of the Daydream series.
- Bad Birdie: Another specialty brew that rotates through the tap list.
- Mittwinternachtmarkt: A recent event-specific or seasonal beer, suggesting a focus on winter and holiday-themed brews.
The Tempe Experience: Food, Tours, and the 2025 Outlook
The experience at the 8th Street Pub is a full sensory one, combining the aroma of hops with a menu of elevated pub food and a calendar packed with community activities. The brewery's commitment to the local scene extends beyond beer, cementing its role as a Tempe landmark.
Must-Try Brewpub Food Pairings
The menu at Four Peaks is designed to complement their extensive beer list, featuring comfort food favorites with a local Arizona twist.
- Kilt Lifter Fish & Chips: A signature dish where the batter is made using the brewery’s flagship Kilt Lifter Red Ale.
- Green Chile Mac & Cheese: A creamy, spicy take on a classic, incorporating local Southwestern flavors.
- 8th St Pale Ale Chicken Strips: Chicken strips battered with the 8th St Pale Ale, offering a perfect pairing for the beer.
- Brickhouse Pretzel: A popular appetizer, often served with house-made beer cheese or mustard.
- Carne Adovada and Chicken Enchiladas: Menu items that further showcase the Southwestern culinary influence.
The Wilson Tasting Room and Weekly Events
While the 8th Street Pub is the historic heart, the Four Peaks Wilson Tasting Room at 2401 S Wilson St. offers a more focused tasting experience, open seven days a week. Furthermore, the brewery’s event calendar is consistently full, providing engaging activities for the community:
- Weekly Beer Tours: Offering a deep dive into the brewing process and the history of the facility.
- Fitness Events: Regular events like Yoga and Pure Barre classes paired with post-workout beer specials.
- Beer Dinners: Specialty events where the chef pairs unique menu items with specific Four Peaks beers.
The Highly Anticipated 2025 Oktoberfest
A major annual event that draws massive crowds and showcases the brewery's community partnership is the Four Peaks Oktoberfest. This event is a crucial part of the Tempe social calendar and a perfect example of fresh, current information.
- 2025 Dates Announced: The brewery has confirmed that the 52nd annual Oktoberfest will take place on October 10 through 12, 2025.
- Location: The three-day Bavarian-themed festival is held at Tempe Town Lake.
- Partnership: The event is a collaboration between Four Peaks Brewing Co. and Tempe Sister Cities.
- Focus: It features German food, German-style beers, and entertainment for all ages.
Four Peaks Brewery in Tempe, AZ, is much more than a destination; it's a living piece of Arizona history and the undisputed champion of the local craft beer scene. From the historic creamery walls on 8th Street to the latest seasonal brew and the confirmed 2025 Oktoberfest dates, the brewery offers a rich, flavorful, and constantly evolving experience for every visitor.
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