It’s been one year since Catalyst Crafted Ales opened, and the brand is already redefining the local craft beer scene.
Catalyst Crafted Ales, a brewery and taproom located at 1845 E. Broadway Road, was founded on a passion for brewing exceptional beer and a desire to elevate Arizona’s beer scene. Head Brewer Will Walthereson, whose background includes work with Bruery Terreux, Wren House, and Shop Beer Co., first partnered with Grant Williamson to establish Ad Astra Brewing Company. The success of that venture laid the foundation for Catalyst Crafted Ales—the brewery they both envisioned would push boundaries.
“We love craft beer because while you have the same ingredients to create a brew, it takes ingenuity and creativity to make something truly beautiful, which is what Catalyst has done,” says Renee Dodge Rafferty, director of community relations. “[We prioritize] quality, innovation, and [have] a deep appreciation for the art of brewing. We think outside the box to bring flavors to all tastes through our wide style spectrums.”
Catalyst Crafted Ales, which is located in a centrally located, stunning space complete with a spacious outdoor patio, brews its beers on a custom-built, state-of-the-art water filtration system. Walthereson and Williamson created rigorous quality control standards for its creations, sourcing the finest ingredients and employing precise brewing techniques to ensure consistent excellence in every pour.
The team takes an experimental approach to brewing, introducing innovative and unique beers that challenge conventional norms.
“Our Paradise Valley Hazy IPA has consistently been a crowd favorite,” says Rafferty. “Its exceptional balance of juicy hops, smooth mouthfeel, and clean finish has made it a staple for beer enthusiasts across Arizona.”
Some of Catalyst’s more unique creations include its Purple Rain wine seltzer and Trappist Barrel-Aged Belgian Quad. A soon-to-debut flavor is the Guava Sour.
“They exemplify our commitment to experimentation and innovation,” Rafferty explains. “These showcase our dedication to exploring diverse flavor profiles and unconventional brewing techniques.”
In addition to the commitment to its creations, Catalyst Crafted Ales is dedicated to being an active member of Tempe’s community and supports local charities, hosts events, fosters partnerships with local businesses, and pursues other community-minded endeavors.
“Catalyst is more than just a brewery; it's an exclusively inclusive experience,” says Rafferty. “We cater to all taste preferences, from the seasoned beer connoisseur to the casual drinker. Our taproom isn't just a place to grab a drink; it's a destination where you'll be greeted by our top-notch staff. We defy categorization, offering a diverse range of beers that span the style spectrum. From our aged Belgian brews to our refreshing seltzers and hazy IPAs, our creativity knows no bounds.”