The Ultimate Guide To Verde Brewing Company Camp Verde: 5 Reasons It's Arizona's Must-Visit Craft Beer Oasis
Verde Brewing Company (VBC) in Camp Verde, Arizona, continues its reign as a cornerstone of the Verde Valley's vibrant craft beer movement, offering a unique blend of local flavor, family-friendly atmosphere, and award-winning brews. As of December 22, 2025, the brewery remains a top destination for travelers heading between Phoenix and Flagstaff, firmly established in its current location on Industrial Drive with a full-scale, in-house brewing operation that serves 12 rotating taps of fresh, innovative craft beer. This guide provides the most current details on their must-try beers, the founders' story, and the unique local attractions that make a stop at VBC an essential part of any Arizona road trip.
Since its founding, Verde Brewing Company has been dedicated to incorporating local resources and inspiration into every glass, creating a true "Verde Valley experience" for both locals and tourists. The brewery's commitment to quality and community has earned it recognition, including a recommendation from *Phoenix New Times* as one of Arizona's top getaway breweries. Whether you are a craft beer enthusiast hunting for a great IPA or a family looking for a relaxed spot with great food, VBC offers a welcoming beer garden vibe right in the heart of Camp Verde, Arizona.
The Birth of Verde Valley's Craft Beer Scene
The story of Verde Brewing Company is one of passion, family, and a pioneering spirit that brought craft beer to a region previously known primarily for its burgeoning wine industry. VBC was officially founded in 2013, marking it as the very first brewery in the Verde Valley.
The initial funding for their first brewery equipment was achieved through a successful Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign, showcasing early community support for the venture.
The company is family-owned and operated, the brainchild of Alex Goetting and his father, Steve Goetting.
- Alex Goetting: Founder, Brewmaster, and Brewer. Alex began his brewing career at his parents' former restaurant, The Horn, before officially establishing VBC. He handles the creative and production side of the business.
- Steve Goetting: Handles the business and operational aspects of the company.
- The Move: The brewery moved to its current, larger location on Industrial Drive about four years ago. This move was pivotal, allowing them to install an onsite brewery, greatly expanding their production capacity and ensuring the freshest beer is always on tap.
The brewery’s location is strategically situated just off Interstate 17 (I-17) and State Route 260 (SR 260), making it an easy stop for anyone traveling through Central Arizona.
Must-Try Brews: From Flagship IPAs to Seasonal Releases
Verde Brewing Company consistently offers 12 different craft beers on tap, all brewed in-house, ensuring a variety of styles to suit any palate. The brewery is known for incorporating local ingredients and flavor profiles inspired by the beautiful Verde Valley landscape.
Flagship and Signature Beers
While the tap list rotates, several brews have become signature favorites that define the VBC experience. These beers are a testament to Brewmaster Alex Goetting’s skill and local focus:
- Wildflower Honey IPA: This is arguably VBC’s most famous beer and was the first to be offered in cans. It's described as an easy-drinking IPA that incorporates locally sourced wildflower honey for a unique, smooth flavor.
- Gold Buckle: A highly-rated brew with a lower ABV (5.2%) and IBU (14), making it a perfect, light-bodied option for Arizona's warmer days.
- Off To Jail: A stronger offering at 7.4% ABV, this beer is a popular choice for those looking for a bolder, more complex profile.
- Smokey Rye Lager: A unique, malty, and flavorful option that stands out among the typical brewery offerings.
- Rotating Hazy IPA: For hop-heads, VBC keeps a fresh, rotating Hazy IPA on tap, ensuring they stay current with the latest craft beer trends.
For those looking for the freshest local news, the Verde Valley beer scene is constantly evolving. In a notable local development for 2025, a limited-release *Rockin' River Ranch Rye IPA* was announced in July 2025 to celebrate Arizona's newest state park, Rockin' River Ranch, highlighting the region’s commitment to community-themed brews.
More Than a Brewery: The VBC Menu and Local Attractions
Verde Brewing Company is not just a destination for beer; it’s a full-service establishment offering a delicious, family-friendly food menu designed to complement their craft brews. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, often described as having a pleasant beer garden vibe.
The VBC Kitchen: Pub Fare and Vegan Options
The food menu focuses on classic, satisfying American pub fare, perfect for a casual lunch or dinner.
- Nachos: A signature item, available in various configurations, including a popular vegan nacho dish that can be customized with vegan protein.
- Sandwiches & Brats: The menu features hearty options like the Pulled Pork Sandwich, Roast Beef Sandwich, and Chicken Salad Sandwich, alongside classic hot dogs and brats.
- Appetizers: Popular sides include the classic Onion Rings.
The commitment to offering vegan-friendly options demonstrates VBC's effort to be an inclusive dining destination for all visitors to the Camp Verde area.
The Unique Camp Verde Location
A visit to Verde Brewing Company places you in the heart of a unique Arizona destination, surrounded by historical and quirky local entities.
One of the most notable nearby landmarks is the *World's Largest Kokopelli*. This 32-foot-tall monument, a tribute to the Navajo icon, sits near the I-17 exit and is a mandatory photo stop for travelers, located just a short distance from the brewery’s Industrial Drive address.
VBC also serves as an excellent starting or ending point for exploring the wider Verde Valley region, which is famous for its Sedona views and numerous wine and beer tours.
Activities and related entities nearby include:
- Verde Valley Brewery Tours
- Sedona Wine & Beer Tours
- Verde Adventures (for river activities)
- Historical sites like Fort Verde State Historic Park
Whether you're scheduling a brewery tour with Alex Goetting, the founder, or simply stopping in for a quick pint of *Wildflower Honey IPA* and a plate of nachos, Verde Brewing Company offers a genuine taste of Arizona’s growing craft culture. It is an essential stop that perfectly encapsulates the welcoming, innovative spirit of Camp Verde.
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