PHOTOGRAPHY BY VIRGINIA HAROLD
Planter's House
There's no shortage of great options for exploring whiskey across St. Louis. Case in point: Zach and Mary Rice of the erstwhile Three Monkeys opened Black Sheep Whiskey + Wine in the same building in Tower Grove South (3153 Morganford). Their goal is to offer 100 whiskeys and the same number of wines, as well as appetizers, flatbreads, and entrées. Black Sheep is just the latest addition to the St. Louis scene, though. Here are 10 other outstanding spots to enjoy whiskey across the region.
At the West County staple, pair a whiskey with your favorite cut of steak. End the evening with a whiskey-infused dessert, such as the Maker’s Mark Bourbon Crème Brûlée. 16806 Chesterfield Airport Road.
The St. Louis spot for whiskey and cigar lovers, this cozy Central West End bar stocks a wide variety of bourbons, ryes and single malts, including some unlikely “unicorn” bottles, such as Blanton’s. 316 N. Euclid.
For fun whiskey cocktails, check out this corner lounge in Benton Park. The drinks feature an outrageous array of garnishes, sure to have you glancing over at the next table and saying, “Oooh! What’s that?” 1811 Pestalozzi.
Hamilton’s Steakhouse & Urban Bourbon Bar
While Hamilton's is best known for steaks, the bourbon selection is also noteworthy. Follow the restaurant on social media to be the first to know about whiskey-themed dinners. 2101 Chouteau.
The popular Lafayette Square establishment sets the bar high for St. Louis’ bar scene and features a whiskey collection that’s second to none. Scotch fans can find nearly every expression of Compass Box at the award-winning bar. 1000 Mississippi.
The knowledgeable staff can help provide guidance while perusing the whiskey options. The restaurant also offers a Whiskey Club punch card, which allows guests to work toward whiskey rewards with every pour. 5065 Highway N, Cottleville.
When looking for limited-release whiskeys, you might not automatically envision a local barbecue chain, but Tom Schmidt's popular restaurants frequently offer these finds at reasonable prices. Multiple locations.
The Central West End haunt is a can’t-miss destination for local and out-of-town whiskey lovers alike. 8 S. Sarah.
More than 120 whiskeys are available at the Midtown spot, which features a 1930s Art Deco-style lounge. Can’t decide what to order? Small Batch offers whiskey flights. 3001 Locust.
Cherokee Street’s whiskey dive offers a fantastic selection of 50-plus whiskeys and a superb cocktail menu. Like any good dive bar, the drinks are strong and affordable. 2651 Cherokee.
Elisa Essner is a member of the Missouri Whiskey Society.
