You no longer have to trek to downtown Chandler to enjoy one of SanTan Brewing Company’s ales. The city’s only independent microbrewery has begun making its beers available to other Valley restaurants and bars.
“The intention is to drive business back to the pub,” says brewmaster Anthony Canecchia, who opened SanTan in September 2007.
SanTan is the only Arizona brewery that self-distributes its beers. The few other available local beers, such those from Four Peaks or Sonoran, are among many brands handled by large distribution companies.
Canecchia, on the other hand, purchased his own delivery truck and is starting with just two dozen accounts across the East Valley and Phoenix, ranging from fine-dining restaurants like Cork to wine bars like Down Under to steakhouses like Trophy’s.
“I want to create personal relationships with these places that will have us on tap,” he says, reflecting his philosophy of supporting and promoting local businesses.
SanTan staffers will visit the restaurants and bars for promotions and giveaways.
Eye-catching tap handles in bright colors identify the pub’s seven signature ales: Sunspot Gold, Hefeweizen, Big Red, Sun Devil, Gordo Stout, Hopshock IPA and Strawberry Wit.
Canecchia leased a refrigerated, 600-square-foot storage space in May and began brewing every day, storing the extra beer that wasn’t needed for his popular pub.
“We’re able to do it (distribute) right now because we’ve built up an inventory,” he says.
To service more than two dozen accounts, though, Canecchia is planning to get more holding tanks, which also might enable the opening of other SanTan locations.
In the meantime, SanTan also is publicizing its brand by teaming up with other Chandler restaurants and stores for events, including:
• A SanTan beer class taught by Canecchia 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Thursday at Whole Foods in Chandler. Cost is $5. RSVP: (480) 821-9447 or e-mail sp.chr.marketing@wholefoods.com.
• A four-course dinner with SanTan beer pairings at 7:30 p.m. July 23 at Whole Foods. Cost: $35. RSVP: (480) 821-9447 or e-mail sp.chr.marketing@wholefoods.com.
• A five-course dinner with SanTan beer pairings at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 17 at Cork in Chandler. Price TBA. RSVP: (480) 883-3773 or e-mail info@corkrestaurant.net.
SanTan also holds its own Tuesday Night Tastings, featuring a four-course menu with beer pairings, the first Tuesday of every month. The next one is Aug. 4. Cost: $25.
SanTan Brewing Co.
Where: 8 S. San Marcos Place, Chandler
Open: 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to midnight Sunday
Prices: Beers $4.75 ($3.75 during happy hour), appetizers $5.50-$10, pizzas $8.50-$16.50, burgers and sandwiches $8-$10.50, entrees $7-$12.
Info: (480) 917-8700 or santanbrewing.com.
Photos by Tom Boggan, East Valley Tribune
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