Saint Paul, MN Local Craft Beer Guide
Your Expert Tour of the City's Best Brews
Saint Paul, Minnesota offers an eclectic and vibrant craft beer scene, with a range of breweries and brewpubs dotting the cityscape. Each establishment brings its unique flair to the brewing industry, from innovative microbreweries to taprooms that double as community hubs, providing both locals and visitors a taste of the city's diverse beer culture.
Craft beer aficionados can explore an array of flavors and styles across Saint Paul. Some of the names that stand out in the local scene include Summit Brewing Company, known for their pioneering role in the craft beer movement, and Black Stack Brewing, which has made a name for innovative and bold beer selections. With a growing number of breweries, Saint Paul is fast becoming a destination for those passionate about quality brews.
The city's commitment to craft beer is evident not only in the variety of unique beers available but also in the attention to atmosphere and customer experience. Breweries like Bad Weather Brewing offer seasonally rotating beers that reflect local tastes and preferences. By engaging with its rich history and tapping into the creativity of skilled local brewers, Saint Paul has managed to carve out a distinctive niche in the Midwest's craft beer landscape.
History of Craft Beer in Saint Paul
Saint Paul boasts a rich tapestry of brewing history that saw a revival with pioneers like Mark Stutrud and the establishment of breweries like Summit Brewing Co. This growth signifies Saint Paul's dedication to quality and tradition in the craft beer scene.
Prohibition to Revival
The Volstead Act of 1919, which enforced the prohibition of alcohol, dealt a severe blow to breweries across the United States, and Saint Paul was no exception. Breweries either had to shut down or pivot to other products to survive. One of the most significant historical breweries, Yoerg Brewing, originally founded in 1848, faced these challenges until Prohibition ended in 1933. The revival of the brewing scene, particularly craft beer in Saint Paul, began slowly but gained momentum as the nationwide interest in craft beer surged.
Pioneers of the Saint Paul Craft Scene
Mark Stutrud is a central figure in the resurgence of craft brewing in Saint Paul. In 1982, Stutrud began laying the groundwork for what would become Summit Brewing Co., which officially opened its doors in 1986. Summit Brewing Co. played a crucial role in reigniting local interest in craft beers and has grown to be synonymous with Saint Paul's craft beer identity. They paved the way for new breweries to establish themselves, fostering a vibrant craft beer culture within the city.
Notable Saint Paul Breweries
In the Saint Paul area, discerning beer enthusiasts have the opportunity to taste some of Minnesota's finest craft brews. Noted for their artisan approach and unique flavors, the following breweries stand out in the local craft beer scene.
Summit Brewing Company
Founded in 1986, Summit Brewing Company is a pioneering establishment in St. Paul's craft beer world. Known for its Summit Extra Pale Ale, this brewery has played a significant role in shaping Minnesota’s craft beer culture.
Urban Growler Brewing Co
Urban Growler Brewing Co is the first woman-owned microbrewery in Minnesota. With engaging offerings like their "Plow to Pint" series, they focus on integrating local ingredients into their craft beers.
Bad Weather Brewing Company
Dynamic and innovative, Bad Weather Brewing Company produces an ever-changing roster of beers, capturing the essence of the season, from a crisp summer ale to a hearty winter stout.
Lake Monster Brewing Company
Lake Monster Brewing prides themselves on unique versions of classic beer styles. Their taproom offers an array of styles, ensuring a brew for every palate.
Barrel Theory Beer Company
At Barrel Theory Beer Company, beer aficionados can expect top-quality, small-batch beers with a creative edge, exemplified by their frequently rotating tap list highlighting bold flavors and intricate brewing techniques.
Exploring the Styles
The craft beer scene in Saint Paul, MN, offers a rich tapestry of flavors and styles, from bold IPAs bursting with citrus notes to complex stouts and ales that showcase local brewing mastery.
Crafting the Perfect IPA
Brewers in Saint Paul have honed their skills in producing India Pale Ales (IPAs) that balance crisp bitterness with a symphony of hop aromas. Enthusiasts can expect to find IPAs infused with citrus and peach, delivering a refreshing and nuanced tasting experience.
Mastering Stouts and Ales
Local breweries take pride in their stouts and ales, with each pint poured telling a story of tradition and innovation. Oatmeal stouts bring a smooth, creamy texture to the palate, while bold barrel-aged beers gain complexity from the intricacies of wood and time.
Brewing Unique and Seasonal Flavors
Saint Paul's craft brewers are not afraid to experiment, often incorporating ingredients like Earl Grey tea into seasonal offerings for a memorable and distinctive beverage. These unique and seasonal flavors reflect the creativity and passion that drive the craft beer community in Saint Paul.
The Brewing Process
The brewing process in Saint Paul, MN's craft beer scene melds tradition with innovation, where brewers take grain from plow to pint and blend the art with science to craft beers with varying ABV (alcohol by volume) levels.
From Plow to Pint
The journey from plow to pint begins with the selection of quality grains. Farmers plow fields to grow barley, wheat, and other cereals that serve as the foundation for beer. These grains are harvested, malted, and milled to prepare for brewing, a step crucial for imparting character and flavor to the beer. The chosen grains reflect the style and desired ABV of the beer, which typically ranges from a light 4% ABV to a robust 12% or more.
Art and Science of Brewing
Mastering the art and science of brewing involves balancing technical precision with creative flair. Brewers carefully combine malted grain with water, hops, and yeast, meticulously controlling temperature and timing during the mash, boil, and fermentation stages. The brewer's artistry is showcased in:
Mash: Extracting sugars from milled grain to create wort
Boil: Adding hops for bitterness, flavor, and aroma
Fermentation: Yeast consumes sugars, producing alcohol and carbonation
This methodical process requires a deep understanding of chemistry and microbiology, culminating in a beverage that captures the essence of Saint Paul's local taste preferences and artistic spirit. Each step has an impact on the final ABV, which is carefully monitored to meet the intended profile of each crafted beer.
Guided Tours and Taprooms
Saint Paul's craft beer scene offers a broad spectrum of taproom experiences, brewery tours with educational insights, and social events that cater to both locals and visitors. Dive into the city's vibrant beer culture through these engaging avenues.
Taproom Experiences
Taprooms in Saint Paul provide an array of sensory experiences, from tasting flagship and seasonal brews to engaging with the local community. Urban Growler Brewing Company stands out as the first woman-owned microbrewery in Minnesota, offering a welcoming taproom environment. Visitors can also explore Vine Park Brewing, a unique brew-it-yourself establishment, where they can not only taste but also create their own beer.
Educational Brewery Tours
For those interested in the brewing process, educational brewery tours are available. Tours often allow behind-the-scenes access to production areas and provide knowledgeable insights into the brewing process. Summit Brewing Company, renowned for its craft beers, delivers informative tours that highlight their sustainable practices, ingredients, and history in the craft beer community.
Events and Gatherings
Brewpubs and breweries in Saint Paul host a variety of events that bring together beer enthusiasts. Dual Citizen Brewing Company is known for its community-centric approach, holding events that combine fine craft beer with local entertainment. Likewise, many local breweries schedule regular gatherings, such as trivia nights, live music events, and seasonal beer releases, fostering a strong sense of community among patrons.
Local Craft Beer Community
Saint Paul's local craft beer scene exemplifies a flourishing industry with its own unique culture and economic impact. It thrives on the twin pillars of community spirit and the pursuit of high-quality craft beer.
Festivals and Competitions
St. Paul hosts several beer festivals and competitions throughout the year, cementing its position in the Twin Cities as a hub for craft beer aficionados. Events like the Minnesota Craft Beer Festival showcase the creativity and brewing skill within the community, allowing locals to sample a broad spectrum of craft beers. These festivals serve not only as showcases for the breweries but also as gathering points for the community to celebrate local products.
Community Involvement
The breweries in Saint Paul hold a reputation for being more than just places to enjoy a pint. Many of them actively engage with the community, hosting events and activities that go beyond just serving beer. For instance, Lake Monster Brewing organizes engaging events with a capacity to entertain between 50 and 80 people, which often resonate well with the communal attitude prevalent across the region.
Supporting Local Economy
Craft breweries in Saint Paul contribute significantly to the local economy. By favoring the use of local ingredients when possible, they support regional farmers and suppliers. Additionally, they provide employment opportunities and attract tourists to the area. Craft breweries are a point of pride for residents, with establishments like Summit Brewing Company and Black Stack Brewing standing as cornerstones of local enterprise.
Specialty and Artisanal Brews
Saint Paul's craft breweries are recognized for their specialty beers, providing a diverse range of creative and distinctive brews. Artisanal expertise shines through in sour and barrel-aged options, the availability of gluten-free beers, and unique collaborations that capture the city's innovative spirit.
Sour and Barrel-Aged Beers
Barrel Theory Beer Company stands out in Saint Paul for its expertise in crafting sour and barrel-aged beers. They employ a variety of barrels to impart complex flavors and nuances to their brews, creating a lineup that's both sophisticated and deeply flavored.
Barrel-Aged: Beers such as stouts and porters aged in whiskey or bourbon barrels.
Sour Beers: Including Goses and Berliner Weisses, often with added fruits for a tart and refreshing profile.
Gluten-Free Options
Gluten-free beers are a key part of Saint Paul's beer scene, ensuring that all patrons can enjoy craft brews. Breweries cater to this need with dedicated gluten-free options, so those with dietary restrictions don't have to miss out.
Dedicated Gluten-Free: Beers brewed with alternative grains like sorghum, rice, or millet.
Gluten-Removed: Beers treated with enzymes to break down gluten to trace levels.
Crafting Unique Collaborations
Collaboration is at the heart of Saint Paul's brewing innovation. Breweries often partner with others to create unique collaborative beers, pushing the boundaries of what beer can be.
Local Collaborations: Breweries join forces with local producers and businesses for exclusive, community-inspired creations.
Special Releases: Limited edition brews that often become sought-after for their originality and craftsmanship.
Sustainability and Craft Brewing
Craft brewers in Saint Paul are increasingly adopting sustainable methods, recognizing the importance of eco-friendly processes in brewing. These initiatives are not only beneficial for the environment but also resonate with consumers who value green practices.
Eco-Friendly Practices
Bang Brewing Company demonstrates leadership in eco-friendly brewing with its native prairie beer garden and is known for being Saint Paul’s first to provide on-street bike parking corral. Their focus extends to sustainably brewed beer, illustrating a commitment to reducing their environmental footprint. Similarly, the Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild promotes sustainable practices among its members, aiming to protect Minnesota's natural resources through responsible brewing operations.
Energy Efficiency: Many Saint Paul breweries employ energy-efficient technologies in cooling and heating during the brewing process, often using solar panels and LED lighting.
Water Conservation: Craft breweries implement water-saving techniques, such as recapturing water for multiple uses, and careful monitoring of water usage.
Brewing with a Conscience
The Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild encourages its members to engage in brewing with a conscience by fostering a healthy beer culture that integrates sustainability into their business models. They provide a Spent Grain Directory and a Spent Grain Disposal Guide to ensure responsible grain disposal and promote a positive farmer-brewer relationship.
Sustainable Sourcing: Breweries often source ingredients locally to support the community and reduce transportation emissions.
Waste Management: Effective spent grain disposal practices include donating to local farmers for animal feed, which supports local agriculture and minimizes waste.
Pairing Food and Beer
In Saint Paul, MN, the relationship between local craft beers and food is celebrated with thoughtful pairings that elevate the dining experience. Brewpubs in the area have honed their menus to complement their beer offerings, and for those at home, there are recommended recipes and pairings to recreate the synergy of flavors.
Brewpub Menus
Brewpubs in Saint Paul integrate their menus with their craft beer selection, considering the flavor profiles of both the food and beer. For example:
Saint Paul Brewing offers a cozy atmosphere that couples well with their immersive brews. Patrons can enjoy hearty, rustic fare that balances the intricate flavors of the house beers.
Bang Brewing emphasizes local and sustainable ingredients, with food selections designed to accentuate the unique qualities of their craft beers. Small plates may include artisanal cheeses or handmade sausages.
Recipes and Pairings
For those eager to explore at home, Saint Paul's craft beer scene inspires a variety of recipes and pairings:
Summit Brewing Company beers can be paired with robust grills and smoky barbecues. Their EPA perfectly complements a grilled steak.
Urban Growler Brewing Company might inspire a pairing such as a citrus-infused IPA alongside a spicy Thai curry (What wine goes well with spicy Thai curry?), the hoppiness cutting through the creaminess of the coconut milk.
Pairings should be seen as a guide rather than a rule, as the fun lies in finding the perfect match that suits one's own palate.
Craft Beer Terminology
Navigating the world of craft beer requires understanding its unique vocabulary. This section will clarify some key terms and answer common questions to enhance the reader's craft beer experience.
Understanding Beer Vocabulary
ABV (Alcohol by Volume): It indicates the percentage of alcohol in a beer. This important metric helps consumers gauge the strength of their beer.
IPA (India Pale Ale): A hoppy beer style within the broader category of pale ale. IPAs are known for their strong hop bitterness, floral, and citrus flavors.
Craft Beer FAQ
What does ABV tell a beer enthusiast?
ABV provides insight into how strong a beer is. Higher ABV means more alcohol content, leading to a stronger effect.
Why are IPAs so popular among craft beer drinkers?
Their bold flavors and diverse hop profiles cater to those looking for a punchy taste experience.
Beyond Saint Paul: Twin Cities Craft Beer
The craft beer scene in the Twin Cities extends well beyond Saint Paul, encompassing a rich tapestry of breweries and a region-wide influence that has become a significant part of the local culture.
Minneapolis Breweries
Minneapolis is well-renowned for its craft beer scene, fostering an atmosphere where creativity and innovation in brewing are plentiful. As a key player in the Twin Cities, Minneapolis plays host to an array of breweries, each with its own distinct flair, contributing to a comprehensive experience for craft beer enthusiasts.
Sixpoint Brewery: Known for its unique takes on classic beer styles.
Minneapolis Cider Co.: While not strictly a brewery, it offers a refreshing alternative with artisanal ciders.
Schilling Cider House: Another notable name in the local cider scene.
Under Pressure Brewing Company: This brewery stands out for its commitment to European beer styles.
These establishments highlight how Minneapolis helps shape the craft beer identity of the entire Twin Cities region.
Regional Craft Beer Influence
The influence of Twin Cities' craft beer extends well beyond the urban core into the broader region, with numerous breweries contributing to Minnesota's reputation in the American craft beer landscape.
Belching Beaver Brewery: Originally from California, its presence in the market showcases the reach of the Twin Cities' craft beer culture.
Anderson Valley Brewing Company: Another non-local brewery that has found a receptive audience in the region, evidencing the regional thirst for quality and variety.
Overall, the Twin Cities' craft beer influence is a testament to a culture that appreciates diverse flavors, supports local craftsmanship, and embraces the nuances of brewing traditions from both near and far.
Craft Beer Innovators and Personalities
Saint Paul's craft beer scene is bolstered by passionate innovators who have shaped the landscape of local brewing. Their contributions have not only defined the tastes of the region but also influenced craft beer culture at large.
Key Figures in Saint Paul Craft Beer
Mark Stutrud: A pioneer in Saint Paul's craft beer movement, Mark Stutrud founded Summit Brewing Company in 1986. Under his leadership, Summit has grown to become one of the most recognized and successful breweries in Minnesota, known for its commitment to traditional brewing methods and quality ingredients.
Navigating Alcohol Laws
The alcohol legislation in Saint Paul, and Minnesota as a whole, is a key component in defining the operation and distribution frameworks for local craft breweries. These laws impact the sale, production, and consumption of craft beer, influencing the local beer culture and business environment.
State Regulations and Licensing
Minnesota state laws mandate that craft breweries and brewpubs obtain appropriate licenses to produce and sell beer. These include Manufacturer/Wholesaler Licenses, specific to breweries, and regulations around Growler sales. In compliance with these laws:
Breweries must adhere to caps on on-site sales.
Licensing allows certain breweries to sell growlers, which are 64-ounce containers of beer for off-site consumption.
Local laws (Minnesota Statute 340A.101) define what constitutes a liquor sale and establish guidelines for both on-sale and off-sale licenses.
Impact on Craft Breweries
The evolution of legislation, particularly changes like those initiated by SF3008, has modernized state liquor laws. Such reform can significantly affect local craft breweries:
Craft breweries now benefit from more flexibility in off-site sales options, allowing a boost in consumer accessibility to MN craft beer.
The bill signed into law by Governor Walz raised the limits on on-site sales for larger craft breweries within the state, impacting key players like Surly and Summit.
The legal framework in which these breweries operate continues to adapt, shaping Saint Paul's local craft beer landscape and consumer experience.
Future of Craft Beer in Saint Paul
Saint Paul's craft beer scene is expected to continue flourishing with unique, locally-sourced beers and inventive brewpub experiences.
Trends and Predictions
Trend 1: Saint Paul will likely embrace local ingredients, leaning into the farm-to-table movement. Breweries are predicted to partner with local farmers, creating sustainable and locally-sourced beers that reflect Minnesota agriculture.
Local Hops and Grains
Seasonal Ingredients
Trend 2: Innovation in brewing techniques will persist. Breweries may experiment with aging processes, such as using different wood barrels or blending unique ingredients, to distinguish their offerings.
Barrel Aging
Experimental Brewing
Trend 3: A trend towards specialty and limited-release beers will capture the interest of beer enthusiasts. These are often only available in Saint Paul's taprooms, fostering a local beer tourism economy.
Taproom-Only Releases
Seasonal and Limited Editions
Trend 4: There will be a significant push towards creating community-focused spaces where the brewery acts as a social hub. This includes hosting local events and showcasing local artists and musicians.
Community Events
Local Arts Integration
With these trends in mind, the future of craft beer in Saint Paul looks promising and innovative, cementing the city's place on the map for beer lovers.
Appendix
The Appendix serves as a comprehensive resource for enthusiasts and visitors interested in Saint Paul’s local craft beer scene. It includes a directory of breweries, a calendar of upcoming beer-related events, and a glossary of terms commonly used in the craft beer community.
Brewery Directory
Saint Paul's craft beer scene features a mix of established and up-and-coming breweries. Below is a list of notable breweries:
Birch's Lowertown Taproom and Barrel House: A thriving spot with a diverse selection of brews.
Hours: 4 PM - 10 PM Mon-Thu, 4 PM - 12 AM Fri, 11 AM - 12 AM Sat, 11 AM - 10 PM Sun
Food: Available daily via food trucks
Untappd Rating: 3.83
Waldmann Brewery: Known for its historical ambiance and traditional ales.
Hours: Open 7 days a week
Food: Yes
Untappd Rating: 3.79
Upcoming Events Calendar
The craft beer community in Saint Paul is active, with events scheduled throughout the year. The events cater to a wide range of tastes and include beer tasting festivals, brewery tours, and pairing dinners. Always check with individual breweries for the most current event schedules.
Craft Beer Glossary
Understanding craft beer terminology enhances the tasting experience. Here’s a brief glossary of key terms:
Ale: A type of beer brewed using a warm fermentation method, resulting in a sweet, full-bodied and fruity taste.
Lager: Beers characterized by a clean, crisp flavor, fermented at lower temperatures.
IBU (International Bitterness Units): A gauge of beer's bitterness.
ABV (Alcohol By Volume): A standard measure of how much alcohol is contained in a given volume of an alcoholic beverage.
References
Several sources contributed valuable information to the guide on Saint Paul's local craft beer scene:
Dual Citizen Brewing Company and Clutch Brewing Company, among others, were highlighted as must-visit breweries, emphasizing the rich history of craft brewing in St. Paul, which dates back to 1848.
Untappd ratings have been acknowledged as a resource for determining popular breweries in the St. Paul area.
The Schmidt Brewery's longstanding presence in Saint Paul, established in 1855, was mentioned as an integral part of the local beer history.
Local guides like Eater Twin Cities provided insights into specific offerings of various breweries, such as the seasonal and taproom-only beers that exhibit creativity and capture the essence of local brewing talent.
The information from these sources was corroborated with facts available in the public domain to ensure accuracy and reliability. Here is a structured reference list of sources discussed:
Source Contribution
Dual Citizen Brewing Company Historical insights into St. Paul's brewing industry
Untappd Ratings and reviews of top local breweries
The Schmidt Brewery Historical significance in St. Paul
Eater Twin Cities Current brewery offerings and special mentions
For readers interested in a deeper exploration into the breweries mentioned, one may search these entities individually for more comprehensive information such as operation hours and food options.
