Restaurant
Unclaimed profileThe Bellwether
St. Louis, MO · $$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
The Bellwether's beverage program is a serious, well-rounded operation. The cocktail list leans on house-made syrups and a diverse spirit base, while the wine list impresses with rare vintages and global reach. Local beers and a deep whiskey selection round out a program that rewards exploration. Priced fairly for the ambition.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Origin gin cocktail for its house-made allspice dram, or the Redwood Empire rye with cacao bitters. For wine, the 2005 Ch. Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is a rare treat. Beer lovers should try a local IPA from Bluewood or Maplewood.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Cocktail enthusiasts seeking inventive, house-made ingredients, wine collectors hunting aged vintages, and whiskey fans wanting a deep Scotch and rye selection. Also suitable for those who appreciate local craft beer.
- When should I go?
- Anytime the menu is in season; the extensive list suits a leisurely evening. The bar program shines after dinner hours.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails $14–$22; wine by the glass $13–$16; bottles $42–$650; beers $4–$16; spirits pours $8–$120.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- A beverage program with genuine depth: creative cocktails built on house-made syrups, a wine list with rare aged bottles like 2005 Montelena and 2015 Opus One, and a whiskey selection that includes limited editions. Beverage Director Travis Hebrank oversees the program.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Cocktails
Original cocktails feature house-made allspice dram, spiced pomegranate syrup, and cherry coconut syrup, using spirits from gin to mezcal and bitters from Bittercube and The Bitter Truth.
Menu strengths
- — Creative use of house-made ingredients; Diverse spirit selection
Standout selections
- — Origin gin cocktail with saffron liqueur and allspice dram
- — Redwood Empire rye with chipotle+cacao bitters
- — Madre mezcal with cherry coconut syrup
Pricing: Cocktails range from $14 to $22.
Wine
Extensive list spanning sparkling, rosé, white, and red, with international coverage and rare aged vintages. Includes a dedicated Champagne section.
Menu strengths
- — Deep international selection; Rare and aged vintages; Reasonable by-the-glass pricing
Standout selections
- — 2005 Ch. Montelena Estate Cabernet Sauvignon
- — Gaston Chiquet Brut Rosé 1er Cru
Pricing: Wine by the glass $13–$16; bottles $42–$650.
Beer
Diverse draft and bottled selection featuring local breweries like 4 Hands, Perennial, Civil Life, and Earthbound, with styles from pilsner to sour.
Menu strengths
- — Strong local representation; Variety of styles; Moderate prices
Standout selections
- — Bluewood Brewing Arch Cit Hazey IPA
- — Maplewood 'Son of Juice' IPA; Aspall 'Perronelle's Blush' English Cider
Pricing: Beers range from $4 to $16.
Spirits
Comprehensive liquor list with a focus on Scotch, Bourbon, and American/Rye Whiskey, including limited editions and craft distilleries.
Menu strengths
- — Extensive whiskey selection; Rare and limited editions; Range of price points
Standout selections
- — Baker's High Rye Ltd.; Barrel Bourbon #031
Pricing: Spirits range from $8 to $120.
How it sits with the food
The cocktail list's citrus and spice notes pair well with contemporary American dishes, while the wine list's international range offers flexible pairing options. Local beers complement casual plates.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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