St. Louis, Missouri, boasts a thriving craft beer scene that rivals its famous arch in local pride. The city’s brewing heritage stretches back centuries, but today’s craft brewers are writing a new chapter in St. Louis beer history. From established names to innovative newcomers, the Gateway City offers a diverse array of taprooms and brewpubs for beer enthusiasts to explore.
St. Louis is home to over 50 craft breweries, each contributing unique flavors and experiences to the local beer landscape. Visitors can find everything from classic lagers to experimental sours within city limits. Many breweries offer tours, allowing guests to peek behind the scenes of the brewing process and sample fresh brews straight from the source.
Beyond the beer itself, St. Louis breweries often serve as community hubs. Taprooms frequently host events, live music, and food trucks, creating lively spaces for locals and tourists alike to gather and enjoy quality craft beer. With so many options available, beer lovers can easily spend a weekend hopping between breweries and discovering new favorites in this midwestern beer destination.
The History of St. Louis Beer
St. Louis has a rich brewing heritage dating back to the 19th century. German immigrants played a crucial role in establishing the city’s beer industry, introducing lager-style brews that would define St. Louis beer for generations.
Prohibition Impact on Local Breweries
Prohibition dealt a severe blow to St. Louis breweries from 1920 to 1933. Many local brewers were forced to close or pivot to producing non-alcoholic beverages. Some resorted to illegal production to stay afloat.
The city’s beer landscape changed dramatically during this period. Smaller breweries struggled to survive, while larger operations like Anheuser-Busch managed to weather the storm by diversifying their product lines.
After Prohibition’s repeal, the St. Louis beer scene slowly rebounded. However, many smaller breweries never reopened, altering the city’s brewing ecosystem permanently.
Anheuser-Busch: The Brewing Giant
Anheuser-Busch emerged as a dominant force in St. Louis brewing. Founded in 1852, the company grew rapidly under Adolphus Busch’s leadership.
Their flagship Budweiser beer, introduced in 1876, became a national sensation. The brewery’s innovative marketing and distribution techniques set industry standards.
By the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair, Anheuser-Busch was hailed as the world’s largest brewery. Their success continued through the 20th century, making St. Louis synonymous with American beer.
The company’s influence extended beyond brewing, shaping St. Louis’s economy and culture for over a century.
Understanding Beer Styles
Beer styles offer a framework for appreciating the diverse world of craft brewing. Knowing the characteristics of different styles enhances the tasting experience and helps drinkers find beers they enjoy.
Ale vs Lager: Basics of Beer Selection
Ales and lagers form the two main beer families. Ales ferment at warmer temperatures with top-fermenting yeast, resulting in fruity, complex flavors. They typically have a fuller body and higher alcohol content.
Lagers use bottom-fermenting yeast at cooler temperatures. This process creates crisp, clean-tasting beers with subtle flavors. Lagers often have a lighter body and lower alcohol percentage than ales.
Common ale styles include pale ales, stouts, and wheat beers. Popular lager varieties are pilsners, bocks, and märzens.
Stouts, Saisons, and IPAs
Stouts are dark ales known for their roasted malt flavors. They range from dry Irish stouts to sweet milk stouts and robust imperial varieties.
Saisons, originally farmhouse ales from Belgium, offer refreshing, spicy notes. They’re often highly carbonated with a dry finish.
IPAs (India Pale Ales) showcase hop bitterness and aroma. American IPAs tend to be more aggressively hopped than their English counterparts. Variants include New England IPAs, known for their hazy appearance and juicy flavors.
The Craft Beer Movement
St. Louis has embraced the craft beer revolution, with artisanal breweries flourishing across the city. This movement has transformed the local beer landscape, offering diverse flavors and styles to discerning drinkers.
Rising Popularity of Artisan Ales
Craft beer has gained significant traction in St. Louis over the past two decades. Local brewers have tapped into consumers’ growing appetite for unique, flavorful beers. Microbreweries and brewpubs have popped up throughout the city, each offering distinct recipes and brewing techniques.
These artisan ales often feature locally-sourced ingredients and experimental flavor combinations. Many St. Louis craft breweries host tasting rooms where beer enthusiasts can sample limited-edition brews. Annual events like Microfest celebrate the city’s craft beer culture, drawing thousands of attendees.
Craft Breweries Influence
The rise of craft breweries has reshaped St. Louis’ beer industry. These smaller operations have challenged the dominance of large-scale producers, offering consumers more choices. Local craft brewers often collaborate, fostering a tight-knit community.
Many St. Louis craft breweries have earned national recognition for their innovative beers. This success has boosted the city’s reputation as a craft beer destination. Some local brewers have expanded distribution, bringing St. Louis-made craft beers to a wider audience.
Craft breweries also contribute to neighborhood revitalization, often setting up in former industrial spaces. They frequently partner with local businesses, supporting the broader community.
Brewery Highlights in St. Louis
St. Louis boasts a vibrant craft beer scene with standout breweries. These establishments offer unique flavors, innovative techniques, and community-focused experiences that have put the city on the map for beer enthusiasts.
Perennial Artisan Ales Pioneer
Perennial Artisan Ales has made a name for itself with its creative and experimental approach to brewing. Founded in 2011, this brewery specializes in small-batch artisanal beers that push the boundaries of traditional styles.
Their flagship beer, Abraxas, is a Mexican chocolate stout that has garnered national attention. Perennial’s tasting room offers a rotating selection of on-tap options, allowing visitors to sample their latest creations.
The brewery’s commitment to quality ingredients and innovative recipes has earned them numerous awards and a dedicated following among craft beer aficionados.
Urban Chestnut Brewing Company’s Tradition
Urban Chestnut Brewing Company embraces both old-world brewing traditions and modern American craft beer styles. With two locations in St. Louis, they offer distinct experiences for beer lovers.
Their Midtown Brewery & Biergarten features a traditional German-style beer hall atmosphere. Here, patrons can enjoy classic European lagers alongside innovative American craft brews.
Urban Chestnut’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their LEED-certified Grove Brewery & Bierhall. This location showcases their brewing process and offers a full food menu to complement their diverse beer selection.
4 Hands Brewing Co.: Innovation and Community
4 Hands Brewing Co. has become a staple of the St. Louis craft beer scene since its founding in 2011. Known for their creative flavors and community involvement, they offer a range of year-round and seasonal beers.
Their expansive taproom features arcade games and a family-friendly atmosphere. 4 Hands frequently collaborates with local artists and businesses, incorporating St. Louis culture into their brand and products.
The brewery’s commitment to innovation is evident in their barrel-aging program and experimental releases. Their City Wide American Pale Ale not only pleases palates but also supports local non-profits through its sales.
Exploring Local Taprooms
St. Louis offers a vibrant taproom culture with diverse beer bars and inviting outdoor spaces. Visitors can sample local brews while enjoying unique atmospheres across the city.
Discovering the Beer Bars of St. Louis
St. Louis boasts an array of beer bars catering to craft enthusiasts. International Tap House (iTap) stands out with its extensive selection of local and global beers. The knowledgeable staff guides patrons through diverse styles and flavors.
Baileys’ Range combines craft beer with gourmet burgers, offering a curated list of local brews. The Royale provides a laid-back setting to enjoy St. Louis beers alongside classic cocktails.
Handlebar attracts cyclists and beer lovers alike. This bicycle-themed bar serves a rotating selection of local craft beers in a quirky, welcoming environment.
Outdoor Spaces and Beer Gardens
Many St. Louis taprooms feature inviting outdoor areas. 4 Hands Brewing Co.’s courtyard at The District offers a sun-soaked space to enjoy their craft beers. Patrons can relax in the open air while sampling innovative brews.
Third Wheel Brewing in St. Peters provides a community-focused taproom experience. Their outdoor space hosts events like beer bingo, creating a lively atmosphere for locals and visitors.
Several breweries offer beer gardens where guests can enjoy St. Louis beer among greenery and fresh air. These spaces provide a perfect setting for socializing and appreciating the local craft beer scene.
Iconic Craft Beer Destinations
St. Louis boasts several must-visit areas for craft beer enthusiasts. These iconic destinations showcase the city’s brewing heritage and innovative spirit, offering unique experiences for locals and visitors alike.
The Neighborhood Charms of The Grove
The Grove neighborhood has become a hotspot for craft beer lovers. This vibrant area features several notable breweries and taprooms within walking distance of each other. Urban Chestnut Brewing Company’s Bierhall is a standout, offering a mix of traditional German-style beers and American craft brews.
4 Hands Brewing Co. is another popular spot, known for its creative seasonal releases and spacious tasting room. The Grove’s walkable nature makes it ideal for beer tours, allowing visitors to sample a variety of local brews while enjoying the neighborhood’s lively atmosphere.
Historic Soulard’s Beer Culture
Soulard, one of St. Louis’ oldest neighborhoods, carries on the city’s rich brewing tradition. This historic district is home to several craft beer destinations that blend old-world charm with modern brewing techniques.
The Anheuser-Busch Brewery, while not craft, offers tours that provide context for the city’s beer history. Nearby, smaller craft breweries like Earthbound Beer have set up shop in renovated historic buildings, offering unique brews that pay homage to St. Louis’ past while pushing boundaries.
Soulard’s numerous pubs and bars also feature extensive craft beer selections, making it a prime destination for beer aficionados.
Gateway Arch and Riverside Brews
The area near the iconic Gateway Arch has emerged as a craft beer destination in its own right. Breweries like Morgan Street Brewery offer scenic views of the Arch while serving up house-made beers.
Schlafly Tap Room, located just a short distance from the riverfront, is a pioneer of the St. Louis craft beer scene. Their extensive beer list and locally-sourced food menu make it a must-visit for beer tourists.
River excursions often feature local craft beers, allowing visitors to enjoy St. Louis brews while taking in views of the Mississippi and the city skyline.
USA Today’s Best Beer Scene Contenders
St. Louis has consistently ranked among USA Today’s “Best Beer Scene” contenders, competing with renowned beer cities like Asheville and Denver. This recognition highlights the city’s diverse and high-quality craft beer offerings.
Side Project Brewing, known for its barrel-aged and wild fermented beers, has garnered national attention. Their Cellar and Lounge in Maplewood attracts beer enthusiasts from across the country.
Perennial Artisan Ales, another nationally recognized brewery, showcases St. Louis’ innovative brewing spirit with their experimental and seasonal releases. These breweries, among others, have solidified St. Louis’ reputation as a top craft beer destination.
Microbreweries and Their Unique Offerings
St. Louis boasts a vibrant craft beer scene with several standout microbreweries. These local establishments offer distinctive brews that showcase creativity and quality.
2nd Shift Brewing and Their Eclectic Ales
2nd Shift Brewing, located at 1601 Sublette Ave, has earned a reputation for its diverse beer lineup. The brewery specializes in hop-forward IPAs and complex Belgian-style ales.
Their flagship beer, Art of Neurosis, is a well-balanced IPA with citrusy notes. 2nd Shift also produces popular sours like Katy and Cat Spit Stout, a rich imperial stout.
The taproom features a rotating selection of experimental brews, giving visitors a chance to try unique flavors. 2nd Shift’s commitment to quality and innovation has made it a favorite among St. Louis beer enthusiasts.
Side Project Brewing’s Barrel-Aged Specialties
Side Project Brewing has gained national recognition for its barrel-aged creations. The brewery focuses on small-batch, wood-aged beers with complex flavors.
Their Saison du Blé, a wine barrel-aged wheat saison, exemplifies their approach to brewing. Side Project also produces sought-after stouts like Beer : Barrel : Time, aged in bourbon barrels.
The Cellar, Side Project’s tasting room, offers a curated selection of their rare releases. Visitors can sample limited-edition beers and purchase bottles to take home.
Side Project’s meticulous brewing process and attention to detail have earned them a dedicated following among craft beer aficionados.
Modern Brewery’s Avant-Garde Approach
Modern Brewery takes an innovative approach to crafting beer, pushing the boundaries of traditional styles. Their experimental brews often incorporate unexpected ingredients and techniques.
The brewery’s Citrapolis IPA showcases their skill with hop-forward beers. Modern Brewery also produces unconventional offerings like Arkham’s Finest, a coffee vanilla porter.
Their taproom features a rotating selection of seasonal and limited-release beers. Visitors can expect to find unique flavor combinations and reimagined classic styles.
Modern Brewery’s willingness to take risks and explore new brewing methods has made them a standout in St. Louis’ craft beer scene.
Navigating the Festival Scene
St. Louis boasts a vibrant craft beer festival scene with events throughout the year. These gatherings celebrate local brews, foster community connections, and showcase the city’s rich beer culture.
Annual Events and Seasonal Tastings
The Brew in the Lou Festival stands out as a major annual event in St. Louis. Held in October at Francis Park, it features nearly 100 tasting stations offering local, regional, and national craft beers, wines, and spirits. The festival runs from 1-5 p.m., allowing attendees to sample a wide variety of beverages.
Microfest, one of the oldest beer festivals in St. Louis, has been running for almost two decades. This two-day outdoor event supports local charities and highlights the city’s craft beer tradition.
Seasonal tastings occur throughout the year, giving beer enthusiasts regular opportunities to explore new flavors and styles. These events often coincide with holidays or changing seasons, featuring specially crafted brews.
Community Gatherings and Beer Advocacy
St. Louis’s craft beer community extends beyond formal festivals. Local breweries frequently host tap takeovers, beer release parties, and brewing workshops. These smaller gatherings allow for more intimate interactions between brewers and beer lovers.
Beer advocacy groups in St. Louis organize educational events and tastings to promote craft beer appreciation. They focus on teaching attendees about brewing processes, ingredient selection, and flavor profiles.
Community-driven initiatives often pair beer tastings with local food vendors, live music, and artisanal crafts. These events showcase St. Louis’s broader cultural scene while centering on craft beer.
Some gatherings focus on specific beer styles or brewing regions, offering deep dives into particular aspects of craft beer. These specialized events cater to both novices and experienced beer aficionados.
Beyond St. Louis: Nearby Brewery Gems
St. Louis beer enthusiasts can explore exceptional craft breweries in neighboring areas. These local gems offer unique experiences and innovative brews just a short drive from the city.
Narrow Gauge Brewing Company’s Notable Creations
Narrow Gauge Brewing Company in Florissant, Missouri crafts exceptional New England-style IPAs. Their flagship beer, Fallen Flag, boasts a hazy appearance and tropical fruit flavors. The brewery’s intimate taproom features a rotating selection of small-batch releases.
Narrow Gauge’s attention to quality has earned them a dedicated following among craft beer aficionados. Their limited can releases often sell out quickly, with beer lovers lining up for the latest offerings.
Ferguson Brewing Company: A Suburban Standout
Ferguson Brewing Company, located in the heart of Ferguson, Missouri, combines craft beer with a full-service restaurant. Their Pecan Brown Ale, infused with locally sourced pecans, showcases their commitment to regional ingredients.
The brewery’s spacious patio provides a relaxed setting for enjoying their diverse beer lineup. Ferguson Brewing Company actively supports local causes, hosting community events and fundraisers throughout the year.
Scratch Brewing Company’s Foraged Beers
Scratch Brewing Company in Ava, Illinois takes a unique approach to brewing, incorporating foraged and locally grown ingredients. Their farmhouse brewery uses herbs, roots, and fruits from the surrounding Shawnee National Forest.
Scratch’s ever-changing beer menu reflects the seasons, with options like pawpaw ale in autumn and dandelion saison in spring. The rustic taproom and outdoor seating area offer visitors a chance to connect with nature while savoring these distinctive brews.
