The Bruery

Placentia, CA · $$

Inebrious

Beverage Program Score

Editorial review: 2026-08-25

Editor: Micah Rousey

How we score

The editorial take

The Bruery's taproom is a proving ground for ambitious brewing: barrel-aged imperial stouts that push past 20% ABV, tart stouts, and beer-wine hybrids that blur category lines. The bottle list reads like a collector's wishlist, with prices to match. Memberships add a layer of ritual for those who want first dibs on limited releases.

What should I order?: Seek out Black Tuesday, a 19.5% ABV imperial stout that anchors the lineup, or Flying High, a bourbon barrel-aged version at 21.3% ABV. Tart of Darkness offers a sour stout counterpoint. For something lower in alcohol, Ruekeller: Pilsener is a crisp lager at 5.8% ABV.
Who will enjoy this place?: Beer collectors chasing rare barrel-aged stouts and sours, plus anyone curious about beer-wine hybrids like Chère Mardi. Members of the Preservation or Reserve Societies will find the program especially rewarding.
When should I go?: Plan around major releases like the Black Tuesday Release Party or blending competitions, when the most coveted bottles pour.
What should I expect to spend?: Individual bottles range from $10 to $55; notable prices include $30 for Chère Mardi, $25 for La Grappe, and $22 for One & Dunn. Membership costs $80 per quarter for Preservation Society and $325 per year for Reserve Society Select.
What makes the beverage program distinctive?: The Bruery's focus on extreme barrel-aging and sour fermentations, alongside beer-wine hybrids, sets it apart from typical taprooms. Its tiered membership program—Preservation, Reserve, and Reserve Society Select—creates a structured path to limited releases.

Beverage categories

We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.

Beer

A deep, daring beer program centered on barrel-aged stouts and sours, with Belgian-style ales and beer-wine hybrids adding range. Membership tiers and release events reinforce a collector-focused culture.

Menu strengths

— Extensive and diverse selection, particularly in barrel-aged stouts and sours.
— Strong membership program offering exclusive access and discounts.

Standout selections

— Black Tuesday (2025): Imperial Stout, 19.5% ABV.
— Flying High: Bourbon Barrel-Aged Imperial Stout, 21.3% ABV.
— Tart of Darkness (2026): Sour Stout.
— Chère Mardi: Oenobeer, 14.1% ABV, $30.

Pricing: Bottles range from $10 to $55; examples include Chère Mardi ($30), La Grappe ($25), Relax Mango Hazy IPA ($16), and One & Dunn ($22). Memberships: Preservation Society $80/quarter, Reserve Society Select $325/year.

How it sits with the food

The brewery hosts beer & chocolate pairings, a natural fit for the rich, barrel-aged stouts. The sour and Belgian-style ales would also stand up to bold cheeses or charcuterie.

Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.

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