St. Louis is renowned globally as the “Beer Capital of the World,” primarily due to the success of the Anheuser-Busch Company and its flagship brew, Budweiser. However, the city’s connection to beer extends far beyond this iconic brand. St. Louis boasts a rich brewing heritage that spans over two centuries, with a vibrant history of more than 20 breweries operating simultaneously at its peak. Here are some fantastic international styles brewed right here in St. Louis to enjoy in celebration of International Beer Day.
Doppelbock
A strong, dark beer with a high alcohol content that originated in Bavaria, Germany, brewed with a lot of malted barley.
- Rockwell Beer Co. | Foeder Bock (7.6% ABV / 24 IBU)
- Urban Chestnut Brewing Company | Doppelbock (ABV 7.3% / IBU 22
Bitter
A long-standing British beer style with a desirable flavor profile.
- Perennial Artisan Ales | ESP (5.3% ABV)
- The Civil Life Brewing Co. | The Angel & The Sword (4.6% ABV/ 32 IBU)
India Pale Ale (IPA)
Invented in England to maintain quality during the long journey from England to India, this modern classic beer style contains large amounts of hops to help it survive the voyage.
- 2nd Shift Brewing | Art of Neurosis IPA (7.6% ABV / 76 IBU)
- Modern Brewing | Citrapolis (6.8% ABV / 70 IBU)
Lambic
A term protected by law in Belgium that refers to spontaneously fermented beer, similar to how “Champagne” is protected in France.
- Side Project Brewing | Kriek Noir du Fermier (7% ABV) (Available for online purchase)
Pilsner
A light, crisp beer that originated in the former Kingdom of Bohemia, now the Czech Republic, traditionally made with Bavarian bottom-fermenting lager yeasts, light malts, and Saaz hops.
- Stubborn German Brewing | Peterstown Pilsner (4.8% ABV / 35 IBU)
- Heavy Riff Brewing | Czechmarks (5.1% ABV / 20 IBU)
Witbier
Also known as Blanche, this famous Belgian beer often includes coriander and lemon peel, differing from its German counterpart Weizen.
- Main & Mill Brewing Co. | Belgian Wit Ale (4.5% ABV / 9 IBU)
- Third Wheel Brewing | Ophelia’s (5.2% / 12 IBU)
Berliner Weisse
An older beer style that likely originated in Germany and Northern Europe in the 17th and 18th centuries, valued for its lactic properties and refreshing taste.
- Bluewood Brewing Co. | Blackberry Hop Tart (5.0% ABV )
- 4 Hands Brewing Co. | Lemon Drop Prussia (4.0% ABV)
Helles
A clear, light-colored, well-bodied lager that originated in Bavaria and Southern Germany, similar to Czech beers but slightly maltier.
- Narrow Gauge Brewing Co. | Helles Gamed (4.7% ABV / 20 IBU)
- Schlafly Beer | Summer Lager (4.5% / 17 IBU)
Altbier
A regional specialty from western Germany, particularly the Dusseldorf area, with a history that goes back centuries.
- Peel Brewing Co. | Alterior Motive (6.8% ABV / 25 IBU)
In addition to these local delights, indulge in some classic international beers available across St. Louis:
- Sapporo: A crisp and refreshing Japanese beer, perfect for those hot summer days.
- Peroni: This Italian beer is smooth and classic, offering a taste of Italy in every sip.
- Becks: Renowned for its traditional German brewing techniques, Becks delivers a reliable and clean flavor.
- Corona: Transport yourself to the beaches of Mexico with this ever-popular summer beer.
- Pilsner Urquell: Embrace the Czech Republic’s brewing legacy with the world’s first-ever pilsner beer.
- Guinness: Savor the rich and velvety taste of this iconic Irish stout.
- Stella Artois: Enjoy the sophistication of Belgian craftsmanship with this elegant brew.
