Down on the dusty west side of Tucson lies a taproom laden with brews more crisp than the dew that forms on the hoodoo rock formations guarding the mountains that give this brewery its name: Dragoon. As one of the more prolific and steadfast craft brewers in Tucson, Dragoon is not only keeping pace with the often turbulent waters of brew house ownership; they are thriving. Just about any place in town that has beer on hand carries at least their flagship offering, Dragoon IPA.
“At last count, that makes up something like 75 to 80 percent of what we’ve made throughout the years.” says Head Brewer Matthew Underwood. “I think that Dragoon IPA is the easiest way for people to get a glimpse into the kind of beer we make. I do think, funnily enough, that it may be a bit intense for new drinkers; it’s pretty intense, it’s pretty bitter, and full bodied.” While the IPAs are having their time in the limelight, Matthew also says to keep an eye out for other offerings like their Dragoon Amber that won Silver at the World Beer Cup 2025. “That one is a lot more approachable and there is a pretty good demand for it.”
The brewery has two components to its production that help keep things both consistent and compelling. Their “year-rounders” include Dragoon IPA, Amber, Florecita Juicy IPA, and Pilsner and make up the bulk of their production, but they are very enthusiastic about the seasonal, rotating-flavor arm of their craft. Co-Owner Tristan White alludes to some cool new things on the horizon, more specifically, an upcoming test batch for a new brew. “We’re doing a test batch in the next couple weeks, so keep an eye out for a new brew in 2026.”
Simply put, the limited release beers and seasonals are where Dragoon keeps things fresh. Smaller batches allow for more experimentation and playfulness. That exploration has led to fun brews like tequila barrel-aged sours and bold imperial stouts. Or for a casual afternoon, visitors might sample one or more session IPAs—a lower ABV option of the classic beer style. Continuing off their specialty creations, Underwood also alluded to some more unconventional flavors and recipes on the horizon. “We’re thinking about seltzers and hop water. We would really love to do some non-alcoholic beverages, but we’re not quite there yet. That requires some major testing… and we’re a ways off from that, but I think it’s really important for people to have options. The more people we can get into our space, the better.”
The spirit of inclusiveness has fostered some significant community engagement and has helped bolster their already glowing reputation. Aside from a cadre of rotating food trucks, Dragoon has found itself to be a regular watering hole beloved by the Tucson bicycle community. This has seen the inclusion of regular community bike rides in cooperation with local bike shops like Transit Cycles and a consistent presence at places like Cyclovia and Tour de Tucson. A notable product of the Tour de Tucson connection was a collab with El Tour entitled “Dragoon Pils” that featured art from a renowned artist and muralist Joe Pagac.
Community, tasty and intentional brews, strong convictions and belief, and a general “everyone come grab a can of suds” vibe set Dragoon up to be a long-lasting member of the Tucson food, bike, and beer scene. Next time you’re in town, head west on Grant until you see the black and white signs leading you to a taproom ready to serve you a memorable cold one. Maybe even stop in for a yoga session, sensory beer tasting class, or another one of their rotating events found on their website.
written & photographed by: isaac stockton