18 SAC Appeals Phoenix Barracks Bar Liquor License
A legal challenge filed in August seeks to vacate the Phoenix venue's state-granted liquor license.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Cocktails
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18 SAC, LLC filed an appeal in Maricopa County Superior Court on August 17, 2026, to challenge the issuance of a liquor license to Barracks Bar Phoenix. The Arizona State Liquor Board had previously approved the license in July 2026.
Why it matters
The challenger argues that the board lacked substantial evidence to deem owner Matthew Moody qualified and failed to follow required administrative procedures. 18 SAC, LLC is currently seeking a trial de novo to overturn the approval.
The liquor board approved the license on the condition that partner Scott Murchison, whose former California business faced 66 administrative allegations, be fully bought out. Records indicate that Matthew Moody has since completed this buyout.
The players
18 SAC, LLC
This entity acts as the sole formal protestor in the legal battle to vacate the liquor license granted to Barracks Bar Phoenix.
Arizona State Liquor Board
This state regulatory body is responsible for granting liquor licenses and overseeing compliance with Arizona's alcohol laws.
Barracks Bar Phoenix
This establishment is the subject of a liquor license dispute following the board's approval of its application.
Matthew Moody
He is an owner of Barracks Bar Phoenix who was required to complete a buyout of his former partner to secure the license.
Michael Gottfried
He is the judge at the Maricopa County Superior Court currently overseeing the appeal regarding the liquor license.
The details
The dispute centers on whether the board correctly vetted the license application and adhered to procedural rules regarding evidence subpoenas. 18 SAC, LLC remains the only formal protestor actively opposing the license in the legal proceedings.
Timeline
The California investigation of Murchison's bar took place during 2023 and 2024.
Matthew Moody and Scott Murchison amended business filings on April 28, 2026.
The Arizona State Liquor Board held a hearing and approved the license in July 2026.
18 SAC, LLC filed the formal appeal in court on August 17, 2026.
Judge Michael Gottfried received the reassigned case on September 16, 2026.
Culture Shift
This case highlights the tension between local businesses and state regulatory bodies concerning Arizona's administrative procedure laws. The dispute serves as a test of the board's authority to set conditions and judge the suitability of individual license holders.
The ongoing court case could determine if Barracks Bar Phoenix is permitted to continue serving alcohol under its current license. Residents and local patrons should be aware that the status of the establishment is subject to potential change based on the judge's final decision.
The takeaway
Licensing disputes like this underscore the high stakes involved for business owners navigating strict state regulatory requirements. For entrepreneurs, thorough adherence to procedural rules and disclosure conditions is essential to maintaining valid operating rights.
Further reading
For more information on local drinking establishments, visit Phoenix Cocktails.
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