Let’s get one thing straight: I have no idea what the Saint Louis Zoo was serving between 2003 and 2010, which were the primary years I took my own kids to the Zoo —maybe Bud Light, maybe a budget brew best left forgotten—but whatever it was, it wasn’t this.
STL Zoo Bier, the light American lager from Urban Chestnut Brewing Company (4% ABV, 95 calories), is back for summer 2025—and this year, it’s waddling into the spotlight with refreshed can art featuring the return of the 2021 king penguin design, plus the same conservation-driven mission that’s made it a hometown favorite.
This season’s label stars none other than the king penguin, one of the tallboys of the Antarctic and proud resident of the Zoo’s Penguin & Puffin Coast. Regal, dignified, and dressed like he owns the place, this bird is now the face of one of STL’s most chill sippers.
The brew behind the bird
Originally released in 2019 as Grizzly Ridge Kölsch, the Zoo’s first-ever beer collab has grown into a warm-weather staple. While it started Kölsch-style, STL Zoo Bier now leans into its lager roots—light, crisp, and endlessly drinkable. It’s the kind of beer that doesn’t overthink itself, which makes it perfect for drinking while you overthink whether the Zoo train is worth a second loop.
Urban Chestnut nails that balanced, clean profile that plays well with heat, hamburgers, and whatever chaos summer throws at you.
Zoo Bier gives back
Sure, the can’s cute—but this beer comes with a mission. For every case sold at participating retailers, Urban Chestnut donates $3 to the Saint Louis Zoo, helping fund animal care and global conservation work. That includes penguins, sure—but also giraffes, grizzlies, and some far-flung species you might not even realize the Zoo helps protect.
In 2019, sales of 1,740 cases generated over $5,000 for the Zoo. And with this year’s rebrand and renewed buzz, the bar’s officially been raised.
“As an animal lover and life-long advocate of the St. Louis region, this partnership means a lot,” said David Wolfe, co-founder of Urban Chestnut Brewing Company. “We’re thrilled to continue this partnership.”
Where to find Zoo Bier
You’ll find STL Zoo Bier on draft at the Zoo (yes, you can sip a lager next to sea lions now), and in 4-packs of 16 oz. cans at grocery stores, beer shops, and coolers across St. Louis City, County, St. Charles, and Metro East.
And don’t wait—it’s a seasonal release, and nothing says summer like realizing your favorite Zoo brew is sold out.
Why you should try it
Besides the playful label and patio-perfect drinkability? This is beer with heart. It’s a crisp, easy lager that does more than cool you down—it supports one of our city’s most beloved institutions.
Whether you’re zoo-hopping with kids, stocking the cooler for a Forest Park picnic, or just feeling like your fridge needs more penguin energy, STL Zoo Bier brings the refreshment and the feel-good vibes.
Because when your beer helps save penguins, that’s not drinking—it’s civic duty. 🐧🍻
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