Our Inspiration

Winslow, AZ

Our Dad's '72 American Pale is an homage to the time before social media, cell phones, computers and the always connected life of today.  Truly a beer to enjoy while taking it easy, let this refreshing, well balanced beer transport you back to a simpler time.

Whether you are standing on a corner in Winslow, Arizona or sitting in your home office after a long day of remote work, relax and unplug with a pint of Dad's '72.

Don't get us wrong, we love today's technology and the tools that connect us in a digital world, but sometimes it is best to disconnect and enjoy a moment of quiet.

The original inspiration for our Dad's '72 American Pale Ale was an old, blue pickup truck that had been passed down through several generations.  Originally bought new in 1972 as a true work truck, it has continued to haul lumber, dirt, gravel, and even a few beer kegs.  In its 40+ year life, the truck has travel across America, including a few trips on the now retired and historic Route 66.  The original Route 66 stretched from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA and cut through the center of Winslow, AZ.  I-40 replaced Route 66 in the early 1980s, but not before The Eagles cemented Winslow in pop icon history forever with their mention of their town in a 1972 hit "Take it Easy."

The Style

American Pale Ale

True to the theme of taking it easy, our American Pale Ale is a classic, well-balanced American beer.  Although Pale Ales originated in England in the late 18th century, they became the first commercialized craft beer in America in the early 1980s, just around the time I-40 replaced the historic Route 66.  In Europe, the Pale Ale was equally transformational.  Before its release, most European beers were black or dark brown in color.  

Back in America in the late 1970s and early 1980s, the Pale Ale was a natural choice for the early craft brewers.  They were looking for a style that was similar to the popular macro beers that dominated the market - balanced, approachable, not too bold - but also distinguishable from Anheusuer Busch and Coors.  Seeking inspiration form the English pale ales, the first American craft brewers increased alcohol by volume, increased carbonation, and served the beer colder than the European counterpart.    Those first American Pale Ales would inspire a revolution.  The American Pale Ale represents the best of American craft beer history.  

The American craft beer industry has changed significantly from the 1970s and 1980s - much like I-40 has replaced the historic Route 66 and modern pickup trucks have replaced old work trucks - but sometimes (often!) there's nothing better than a cold, well-balanced American Pale Ale.

Earn & Redeem