Blue Jay Brewing Co. Named
VinePair’s 2025 Brewery of the Year  

National recognition puts St. Louis’ lager-focused brewery in the spotlight 

ST. LOUIS (Oct. 16, 2025) Blue Jay Brewing Co., a family-owned brewery tucked into Midtown, has been named Brewery of the Year in VinePair’s prestigious 2025 Next Wave Awards. The honor puts the spotlight on one of St. Louis’ best-kept secrets. Blue Jay Brewing Co. is a handcrafted brewery founded by Jay and Nicole Thompson, which is quickly gaining national attention for its lagers that combine tradition and innovation. 

“Being recognized by VinePair at this level is beyond anything we imagined,” said co-owner and brewer Jay Thompson. “We built Blue Jay to share our love of lagers and create a space where people feel welcome. To see our taproom in Midtown celebrated on a national stage is incredible.” 

Though just under two years old, Blue Jay has already developed a loyal following of beer lovers who praise its balance of classic styles with a curious spirit. The brewery has become a haven for beer fans, with a tap list that ranges from light, crisp pilsners to malty dunkels and even experimental brews made with sustainable grains like Kernza. 

For those who haven’t yet stopped by, this award is your invitation. Blue Jay is proof that some of the best beer in the country is being brewed right here in St. Louis, and it’s waiting for you on Locust Street. 

Celebration Event — Save the Date 
To mark this milestone, Blue Jay Brewing will host a community celebration on Saturday, November 8 at its Midtown taproom. The event will feature Blue Jay’s award-winning beers, food by Farm Spirit, and more details to be announced soon. 

“We wouldn’t be here without our team, our regulars, and this city,” Nicole Thompson added. “This celebration is really about raising a glass with the people who made it all possible.” 

About Blue Jay Brewing Co. 
Established in 2023 by Jay and Nicole Thompson, Blue Jay Brewing Co. is a small, independent brewery in Midtown St. Louis specializing in American and European-style lagers. Rooted in the principles of quality brewing, sustainable practices, and a deep sense of community connection, Blue Jay has earned recognition as one of St. Louis’ most exciting craft breweries in St. Louis’ craft beer scene and is now on the national stage. To learn more, go to bluejaybrewing.com.