Greg Fretz

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What’s your current position at your brewery, and how did you get started in the craft brewing industry?

I am co-founder, co-owner, and sales manager [at The Phoenix Ale Brewery in Phoenix, Ariz.]. I began in the craft beer business when I worked for a local Arizona distributor called Arizona Beverage. I was in the off-premise chain division and quickly learned that I loved talking about, selling, and drinking craft beer.

What’s new at The Phoenix Ale Brewery?

Our entire organization is brand new. The Phoenix Ale Brewery is the brainchild of both me and George Hancock (former president and CEO of Pyramid Breweries). Our first beer is called Fretzy’s Unfiltered Ale, an English-style pale ale. Our new 16,000-square-foot brewery sits on 1.5 acres just east of downtown Phoenix.

What’s the best part of being a part of the craft brewing community?

I love the sense of belonging that craft beer creates. It lets people relate to each other on a common level. I also enjoy all of the change that takes place in our community. It is nice to have a variety of different craft beers to try. Variety is the spice of life.

What do you like to do in your time away from the brewery?

I love to spend time with my family, play tennis, and golf.

What’s your favorite food and beer pairing?

Fretzy’s Unfiltered with pizza.

What’s your biggest accomplishment unrelated to your job?

Obtaining my Master of Administration degree in business leadership from Northern Arizona University in 2010 and balancing this feat with family and work.

What’s your favorite beer that your brewery does not produce?

Deschutes Black Butte Porter.

What’s the most memorable travel destination at which you’ve had a chance to sample the local beer?

I would have to say Portland, Ore. I love all of the breweries in the Northwest.


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