As the vibrant hues of fall blanket St. Louis and the crisp air signals winter’s approach, it’s time to turn to a seasonal favorite: stouts. While the first snowfall is still weeks away (hopefully), there’s no reason not to indulge in these big, boozy, dark ales, which are perfect for colder weather. Stouts are renowned for their deep, roasted flavors and dark, almost black appearance. The secret lies in roasted malt and barley, which undergo a caramelization process that imparts rich, toffee-like notes and an unmistakable hue. The style has something for every palate. (According to a recent report, global demand for stouts is set to reach more than $15 billion by 2027, driven by their rich taste, texture, and touted health benefits, thanks to their antioxidant content.) And subcategories range from bourbon barrel-aged to coffee, oatmeal, and vanilla stouts. This winter, consider some coffee stouts from area breweries—the perfect pick-me-up with a side of cozy.
The Classics
4 Hands Brewing Co. | Absence of Light | 7.1% ABV
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A peanut butter-chocolate stout that’s equal parts rich and balanced. Let it warm up a bit to unlock all the decadent flavors. Pro tip: buy extra to savor some now and save a few for next year.
Perennial Artisan Ales | Abraxas | 11.5% ABV
An imperial stout revered for its complex blend of cacao nibs, ancho chiles, vanilla beans, and cinnamon. The subtle heat from the chiles gives this winter favorite an unforgettable kick.
Side Project | Beer : Barrel : Time
Side Project’s collectible stout is a dream for beer enthusiasts, known for notes of vanilla, coconut, and chocolate. While 2024’s release is sold out, it remains one of the most coveted stouts in the craft beer world.
Schlafly Beer | Coffee Stout | 5.7% ABV
Silky and rich, Schlafly’s Coffee Stout is perfect for a campfire or gathering with friends. Consistently one of the most balanced coffee stouts in town.
Six Mile Bridge | Cinnamon Maple Stout | 8.0% ABV
Initially a slow burn, this stout’s cinnamon and maple flavors reveal themselves over time. It’s a warming winter treat that’s grown on me with each sip.
Public House | Giddy Goat Coffee Milk Stout | 5.5% ABV
A full-bodied stout with roasty coffee notes and creamy sweetness. The balance between the base beer and the Giddy Goat coffee is spot-on, making it a standout.
2nd Shift Brewing | Liquid Spiritual Delight (LSD) | 11.5% ABV
One of the original releases from 2nd Shift’s “wee little brewery,” Liquid Spiritual Delight has evolved from a modest 7% stout into the bold, velvety 11.5% powerhouse it is today. This American-style imperial stout delivers a rich, chewy profile with layers of molasses, fudge, bittersweet chocolate, and roasted barley. The result is an indulgent and complex brew that continues to captivate fans, year after year.
Narrow Gauge Brewing Co. | Peanut Butter Stout
This imperial stout, loaded with lactose, peanuts, and peanut flour, delivers a rich, dessert-like experience. Keep an eye out for barrel-aged variants with bourbon and cinnamon whiskey.
New(er) Stouts to Try
Goodwood Brewing | Bourbon Barrel Stout
Aged for three months in freshly dumped bourbon barrels, this stout offers notes of vanilla, oak, and baking spices, with a smooth bourbon finish. Available in four-packs and on tap, it’s perfect for chilly nights.
4 Hands Brewing Co. | Imperial Hot Chocolate Milk Stout | 8.5% ABV
An indulgent twist on their Chocolate Milk Stout, this version is infused with hot cocoa powder for a rich, velvety sip that’s a chocoholic’s dream.
Millpond Brewing x LongStory Coffee | LongStory Short Oatmeal Stout | 6% ABV
This collaboration features Costa Rican coffee beans roasted exclusively for this brew. It’s rich, smooth, and full of unique coffee depth, available in cans and on draft.
Wellspent Brewing | Mister Maraschino | 13% ABV
Barrel-aged with cherries and cacao nibs, this stout delivers decadent chocolate and cherry flavors. Available in bottles and on draft, it’s an indulgence worth seeking out.
Friendship Brewing | Blind Rage | 4.1% ABV
A sessionable milk stout with vanilla and coffee, this easy-drinking option lets you enjoy multiple rounds without feeling heavy. Smooth, sweet, and perfect for a relaxed evening.
Alpha Brewing Co. | Nutcracker Stout | 7% ABV
Brewed with hazelnut, vanilla, and cinnamon, then aged in whiskey barrels, this seasonal stout is warm and nutty, ideal for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in.
Bonus: A 2nd Shift Brewing Special Release
2nd Shift Brewing is gearing up for a release of a Willett Bourbon Barrel-aged stout, aged for 22 months. Members of the River Des Peres Row Crew will get first dibs, followed by a limited public release. Expect an adjunct series featuring collaborations with Kaldi’s organic masala chai for a unique twist.
