Colt 45 Stout Malt Liquor 12 Oz Tab Top Can

Colt 45 Stout Malt Liquor Phoenix

The Colt 45 Stout Malt Liquor 12 oz can represents an interesting chapter in the regional packaging history of The National Brewing Company. While Colt 45 was marketed nationally, the specific "Stout Malt Liquor" designation was employed on cans distributed from National's Western Division facility in Phoenix, Arizona, tailored to meet regional labeling regulations and marketing classifications.

Brewery Background & Regional Context

The National Brewing Company established its footprint in the American Southwest by acquiring the historic Arizona Brewing Company facility in Phoenix. This regional production hub allowed National to supply western markets with its flagship brands, including Colt 45. The Phoenix plant produced cans featuring localized mandatory brewery statements credited directly to Phoenix, Arizona, making these cans a distinct focus for regional breweriana enthusiasts.

Graphic Design and Labeling

The can features the recognizable Colt 45 visual branding, highlighted by the iconic kicking horse and horseshoe insignia. Set against a clean background, the bold typography prominently showcases the "Stout Malt Liquor" label text. The side panels display the Phoenix brewery mandatory text alongside standard regulatory notices of the era.

Collector Notes and Variations

Collectors of National Brewing and Colt 45 memorabilia catalog various production differences on this Phoenix issue. Documented variations include differences in side-panel mandatory text, slight alterations in the American Can Company manufacturing logos, and variations in seam construction along the body. The Phoenix facility also occasionally used this brand styling in connection with regional promotions, tying the can closely to the industrial brewing history of Arizona.