Perennial Artisan Ales (8125 Michigan Avenue; 314-631-7300)
With a focus on barrel-aged, farmhouse-style brews like the delicious Hommel Bier, a dry-hopped Belgian pale ale, and the Saison de Lis (brewed with actual chamomile flowers), Perennial Artisan Ales in the quiet Carondelet neighborhood hopes to fill a special niche in the St. Louis beer scene. Since opening in fall 2011 Perennial has offered St. Louis ale sippers its selection of brews to enjoy in its 1,500-square-foot tasting room or outdoor beer garden. Patrons also have the opportunity to view the brewing process at the adjacent 6,000-square-foot brewery.
Ferguson Brewing Company (418 South Florissant Road, Ferguson; 314-521-2220)
Formerly known as Hill Brewing Company, owner Joe Lonero's Ferguson Brewing Company seeks to bring the craft-beer boom to north county with its first brewpub. With a lineup of ten ales on tap and a selection of three seasonal specials to boot, not to mention its mouthwatering food menu that includes slow-smoked barbecue and award-winning hot wings, it delivers a satisfying brewpub experience. Exceptional suds at Ferguson include the seasonal Peach Wheat, a sweet, fruity flavor perfect for sipping in spring, and the malty Munich Dunkel, a regular on draft.
Six Row Brewing Company (3690 Forest Park Avenue; 314-531-5600)
Since December 2009 Six Row Brewing Company has offered Midtown a comfortable watering hole with housemade brews and excellent eats. Located in the same complex as the old Falstaff brewery, Six Row's small, no-frills pub includes a long bar and minimal seating - both within eye range of its adjacent brewing operations factory. The beer selection at Six Row usually includes at least eight brews on draft, with a rotation of seasonal specials as well. Highlights include the bright, malty Whale and the earthy, surprisingly fruity Export Stout, a session ale. The food selection at Six Row is also first-rate, with a menu of American, Bavarian and bar-food standards.
