St. Louis-based Anheuser-Busch, a division of Anheuser-Busch InBev, opened The Biergarten at its Brewery and Tour Center in St. Louis. The outdoor establishment offers guests a place to gather and relax while enjoying a beer experience, including exploring lager beers and trying ales and other specialty beers, the company says.
Anheuser-Busch's history and traditions have been integrated into every aspect of The Biergarten, according to the company. Every day, fans of legal drinking age can participate in an exclusive 3 p.m. tasting, the same time Anheuser-Busch brewmasters from around the country taste beer each day to make sure it is of the highest quality and consistency. The facility’s décor also pays homage to Anheuser-Busch's history. For example, a grand feature wall showcases the "Anheuser-Busch St. Louis, MO" logo that was stamped on wooden crates designed to safely deliver Budweiser beer from the brewery to local taverns.
"For more than 125 years, we've opened our doors and given visitors an in-depth look into the passion and precision that go into making our world-famous beers," said Peter Kraemer, vice president of supply and head brewmaster for Anheuser-Busch, in a statement. "As we look to the next 100 years and beyond, The Biergarten will help continue that tradition by giving guests an unforgettable opportunity to participate in time-honored traditions and enjoy our beers in a beautiful space."
Complimentary access to The Biergarten is offered before or after regular brewery tours or any time during operating hours from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. The area seats up to 275 guests, serves a variety of Anheuser-Busch beers, including 17 on draught, and features several tasting flights. Fans of legal drinking age can learn about a number of beer styles, how to pour the perfect beer, and what glassware best complements each beer style to bring out its aroma and taste. Food options will include a limited menu initially, with a full menu featuring small plates and other light fare to be offered later this year.
"The Biergarten is truly a labor of love for us," said Julia Mize, vice president of experiential marketing for Anheuser-Busch, in a statement. "From the craftsmanship that went into designing the unique bar made from reclaimed beechwood, to hand-selecting the glassware that accentuates each beer style, we are thrilled to bring our guests a traditional German biergarten experience in a relaxed setting. We hope The Biergarten will be a destination for St. Louisans and beer lovers around the world — just as our brewery tour has been for decades."
Fans of legal drinking age can stay up to date on The Biergarten’s activities by following its Twitter handle, @BiergartenSTL, or visiting the Anheuser-Busch and St. Louis Budweiser Tours Facebook pages.