Background – Barnstar Brewing Company
David and Sandy Bigelow had been visiting family in Skull Valley, Arizona for years. In 2011 when they decided it was time for a change, opted to open a brewery, kinda in the middle of nowhere. On the edge of Prescott National Forest they built a ranch house and a brewery. In January of 2012 Barnstar Brewing Company began brewing beer, initially selling to bars and restaurants in and around the Prescott area. In 2014 the Bigelows decided they would increase the variety of beer and sell it directy out of the tasting room at the brewery. The brewery is now open Saturdays, Sundays and some holidays from 12:00-5:00 and feature up to 12 handcrafted beers. Jason Johnson is the director of operations.
Experience
Barnstar Brewing Company has got to be one of the most unique breweries we have been to. We have visited Barnstar twice in the last couple years. The brewery is about 20 miles west of Prescott and 120 miles from Phoenix. There are a few miles of gravel road to travel to add to the adventure. The property has a tasting room with a few tables inside. There are also a dozen different outdoor spots to hang out and enjoy your beer and the beautiful vistas. A big attraction is to feed carrots to the two resident ponies. The first time we went we ordered a flight. We enjoyed a black IPA, the Pumpkin Ale is good, the peachy wheat and their Porter is good.
David, Sandy & Jason are very welcoming and friendly. It is like visiting friends when you go there. The family dog likes to greet the patrons and stay nearby for a shared hot dog. This establishment is very dog friendly. A small variety of food items are available, including brats, hotdogs, pulled pork sandwiches, chips and soft drinks. You can also leave with a growler.
Barnstar is a unique experience and we suggest when in the area, stop by and say Hi. Lots of camping options nearby. When in the area, check out Granite Mountain Brewing in Prescott.
