Craft Breweries, Distilleries, and Wineries That Put Montana on the Map
Nestled in the heart of downtown Missoula, Bayern Brewing offers a distinctly German twist on Montana’s craft beer scene. Founded by a German-trained brewmaster, Bayern Brewing carries on the tradition of unfiltered lagers made with imported ingredients from Bavaria. Visitors can tour the brewery’s historic brick building and sample crisp, lightly hopped beers like their award-winning Dunkel. The relaxed taproom atmosphere, filled with wood beams and communal tables, invites conversation among locals and travelers. Missoula’s lively cultural vibe and the brewery’s dedication to old-world brewing methods create an authentic experience that stands apart in a state known for hoppy ales. Summer evenings here are especially memorable, when outdoor seating fills with sun and the nearby Clark Fork River provides a gentle soundtrack.
Heading east from Billings, about a 30-minute drive, Crow Peak Distillery in the town of Belle Fourche sits near Montana’s eastern border, delivering a unique taste of the Northern Plains. This distillery crafts small-batch spirits that celebrate regional grains and Montana’s rugged landscape. Their signature bourbon and rye whiskies are made with water sourced from the nearby Black Hills, giving the spirits a crisp, mineral character. Visitors can take guided tours to watch the distillation process, then relax in the tasting room while sampling handcrafted cocktails highlighting local ingredients like huckleberries from the foothills. Belle Fourche’s wide-open skies and rolling prairie backdrop make this a perfect stop for those seeking a frontier-style experience with a modern twist, particularly rewarding in the crisp air of early fall.
In the heart of Helena, the Crown Beverage Company offers an immersive exploration of Montana’s craft culture through its Microbrewery and Distillery. Just a short stroll from the state capitol building, this spot combines a variety of handcrafted beers and spirits under one roof. Visitors can try innovative seasonal brews that draw inspiration from Montana’s dramatic seasons—like a pumpkin ale in autumn or a spruce tip IPA in spring—alongside vodka and gin distilled on site. The setting is bright and modern, with large windows overlooking historic downtown streets, creating a lively urban atmosphere. Winter visits bring a cozy warmth, making it an inviting refuge after exploring Helena’s nearby hiking trails or the Montana Historical Society Museum.
Further west, in the small town of Stevensville, perched about 30 minutes south of Missoula, the 1,800-acre Bitterroot Valley offers one of Montana’s most scenic wine-growing regions, home to the RoxyAnn Winery. Known for its hand-tended vineyards and artisanal approach, RoxyAnn produces limited runs of cold-hardy grape varietals suited to Montana’s short growing season. The tasting room is surrounded by rolling hills and distant mountain peaks, making every sip a moment steeped in the valley’s quiet beauty. Visitors can stroll the grounds or attend seasonal events like grape harvest celebrations in late September. The winery’s blend of rustic charm and meticulous care sets it apart, especially spectacular under the golden light of late summer afternoons.
In Bozeman, about a 15-minute drive southwest of the city center, the MAP Brewing Company has become a local favorite for its adventurous beer lineup and commitment to sustainable brewing practices. Located in a modern industrial space, MAP offers a rotating selection of IPAs, stouts, and farmhouse ales that often incorporate wild yeast strains and native ingredients. The tasting room buzzes with the energy of students and outdoor enthusiasts who flock here after hikes in the nearby Bridger Mountains. A visit on a sunny spring day pairs perfectly with a picnic on the adjacent patio, where the fresh mountain air complements the brewery’s crisp, aromatic offerings. MAP’s combination of innovation and environmental consciousness captures the pioneering spirit of Montana’s craft scene.
Down south near the border with Wyoming, the town of Red Lodge hosts the Beartooth Brewery, a cozy establishment that highlights the flavors and culture of Montana’s mountainous regions. Just 20 minutes from the entrance to Yellowstone National Park’s northeast border, this brewery provides a welcoming stop for travelers seeking hearty, comforting beers after a day of exploring. Their flagship Beartooth Blonde Ale and seasonal releases like a smoked porter pay homage to the rugged, outdoor lifestyle. The rustic taproom features local artwork and a fireplace that glows throughout the colder months, creating a homey refuge. Visiting in late autumn offers a spectacular contrast: the brewery’s warmth against the backdrop of fiery fall foliage in the surrounding Beartooth Mountains.
Nestled in the Flathead Valley near Kalispell, the Mission Mountain Winery produces elegant varietals that reflect the unique terroir of northwest Montana. Situated about 30 minutes north of Glacier National Park’s west entrance, the winery benefits from cool nights and abundant sunshine, ideal for growing grapes adapted to Montana’s climate. The tasting room’s large windows frame views of the Mission Mountains, while the estate vineyards invite leisurely strolls among vines heavy with fruit. Seasonal wine releases and blending workshops engage visitors looking to deepen their appreciation for Montana’s emerging wine culture. Summer and fall visits are especially captivating here, as the surrounding landscape bursts with wildflowers and autumn hues.
Along the scenic Bitterroot River corridor near Hamilton, the Bitter Root Brewing Company offers a blend of traditional and experimental beers in a friendly, community-oriented setting. About 45 minutes south of Missoula, this brewery reflects the agricultural heritage of the region by sourcing local barley and hops whenever possible. Their flagship IPA is balanced and aromatic, while rotating taps often feature innovative brews inspired by Montana’s diverse ecosystems. The taproom’s rustic décor and outdoor seating area create a relaxed atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends after a day on the nearby Bitterroot Trail, a 37-mile multi-use path famous for its river views and wildlife sightings. Spring and early summer, when the river swells with snowmelt, offer particularly stunning vistas paired beautifully with a cold pint.
Together, these breweries, distilleries, and wineries showcase Montana’s diverse landscapes and creative spirit. From the alpine shadows of the Beartooth Mountains to the fertile valleys near Glacier National Park, each place invites visitors to taste the state’s rugged character and hospitality. Whether savoring a Bavarian lager in Missoula or a handcrafted whiskey on the prairie near Billings, travelers discovering Montana’s craft beverage scene gain a delicious entrée into the state’s rich culture and stunning natural beauty.