Brewery
Unclaimed profileCivil Life Brewing Co.
St. Louis, MO · $$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Civil Life Brewing Co. Is a St. Louis brewery that excels with English-style ales and rare cask-conditioned beers, backed by GABF gold and Craft Beer & Brewing recognition. The wine program is surprisingly broad, spanning global regions and large formats, with to-go and in-pub pricing. Non-alcoholic options include beer, wine, and kombucha, making the program inclusive. A reliable stop for beer purists and wine-curious alike.
- What should I order?
- Start with the American Brown Ale, a flagship with caramel, cocoa, and coffee notes. For cask-conditioned variety, ask what's on the beer engine. If wine is more your pace, try the 2023 Vite Colte Chardonnay or a large format for sharing.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Beer enthusiasts seeking traditional English styles and cask ale will find a rare haven. Wine drinkers will appreciate the extensive list and non-alcoholic alternatives. Casual visitors can enjoy affordable pints and growlers to go.
- When should I go?
- Visit on a relaxed afternoon to sample the rotating cask offerings, which are often tapped in limited quantities. Evenings are suitable for pairing beers with pub food or exploring the wine list.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Pints are $6.38, growler fills range from $4.56 to $9.11, and six-packs to-go are $9. Wine prices vary widely, with bottles from $13.50 to $888.50 in-pub.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The brewery's commitment to English-style ales and cask-conditioned service is rare in the US. With 35-40 beers annually and a wine list spanning six countries, it's a dual-threat beverage destination. Non-alcoholic options further broaden its appeal.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Wine
Extensive wine list covering multiple regions and styles, with by-the-glass and bottle options. Large formats up to 6 liters. Non-alcoholic options available. Pricing is transparent with to-go and in-pub tiers.
Menu strengths
- — Broad international selection including France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Australia, and the US.
- — Offers both to-go and in-pub pricing, providing flexibility for customers.
Standout selections
- — NV Tarrida Cava, Brut – Spanish sparkling, $15.99 to-go, $28.99 in-pub.
- — 2023 Vite Colte Chardonnay, Fosche – Italian white, $13.50 to-go.
- — 2021 Josef Leitz Riesling 'Eins Zwei Dry 3' – German Riesling, $16.88 to-go.
- — 2019 Ch. Fleur de Lisse – Bordeaux red, 1.5L, $75.99 to-go.
Pricing: To-go and in-pub pricing; example: 2023 Vite Colte Chardonnay $13.50 to-go, $28.50 in-pub; large formats up to $888.50 in-pub.
Beer
Award-winning brewery with a focus on English-style ales and cask-conditioned beers. Annual production of 35-40 beers, many recipes dating to opening. Recognized with GABF gold and Craft Beer & Brewing accolades.
Menu strengths
- — Award-winning beers, including GABF Gold and Craft Beer & Brewing recognition.
Standout selections
- — American Brown Ale – flagship, deep brown with caramel, cocoa, and coffee notes.
- — Rye Pale – Gold medal at GABF 2014.
- — Belgian Table – low-alcohol Trappist single with fruit and spice.
- — Bee Civil Honey Wheat – crisp with honey aromatics and dry finish.
Pricing: 16oz pints at $6.38; 32oz growler fills $4.56; 64oz growler fills $9.11; 6-pack cans $9.
Nonalcoholic
Diverse non-alcoholic offerings including beer, wine, mocktails, and kombucha. Specific pricing limited, but NA wine is competitively priced.
Menu strengths
- — Variety of non-alcoholic options beyond typical soda, including beer and wine.
Standout selections
- — Leitz Eins Zwei Zero NA Sparkling Rose – non-alcoholic sparkling wine from Germany.
- — Confluence Ginger Lavender Kombucha – local St. Louis kombucha.
Pricing: Leitz Eins Zwei Zero NA Sparkling Rose $5.63 to-go, $8.00 in-pub; other items not specified.
How it sits with the food
The American Brown Ale's caramel and coffee notes pair well with grilled meats or chocolate desserts. The Belgian Table's spice and fruit complement mild cheeses. For wine, a German Riesling like the Josef Leitz 'Eins Zwei Dry 3' suits spicy dishes.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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