If you’re at all into drinking beer, then you probably have heard of the craft brew craze taking over taps across America. Craft Breweries, which are defined by the Brewers Assocation as “small, independent and traditional” breweries, have seen a 15% increase in sales over the course of last year. Though annually craft breweries only produce about 6-million barrels, which is a mere 10% of national beer sales, it’s hard to deny the popularity of these increasing local fixtures. Missoula ranks #2 in the nation for craft breweries per capita, second only to Portland, Oregon. Book your room at our beautiful Missoula Bed and Breakfast today, and discover the thriving craft brew culture in Missoula.
Missoula’s Best Craft Breweries
Missoula has long been known as both a college town and an outdoor mecca for adrenaline-seeking enthusiasts. However, it’s hip and trendy reputation is now taking on the craft brew scene. With 6 craft breweries already, and more on the way, Missoula is poised to take center stage as a destination for beer lovers. Missoula’s most recent brewing history dates back to 1987 when Bayern Brewing opened, claiming the distinction of being the only brewery in the Rockies to follow strict German brewing traditions. Big Sky Brewing is not only Missoula’s biggest brewery, but perhaps also is the most well known out of state due to the popularity of their Moose Drool Brown Ale. If you want to try some slightly more unusual brew flavors, try the Pumpkin Pie Mexican Chocolate Porter at Draught Works Brewery or the Fresh Bongwater Pale Ale at KettleHouse Brewing. As evidenced by these flavor combinations, Missoula’s craft breweries love to experiement, and you will not be disappointed.
Perhaps one of the best parts of Missoula’s craft breweries is that over half of the malted grain used for brewing is actually produced in Montana. It’s just another example of how Missoulians are keeping it local. If you’re looking to make the most of your experience at Missoula’s craft breweries, we recommend taking one of the exciting local brewery tours offered by Montana Brewery Tours. The Missoula Hop-On tour is one of the most popular ways to experience local craft brews, giving you access to 3 breweries in around 4 hours. For a true Missoula experience, why not combine two of Missoula most popular attractions: Craft brews and whitewater rafting? The Whitewater Beer Tasting experience will take you through the gorgeous Alberton Gorge section of the Lower Clark Fork River, after which you will stop at Fish Creek for some tasty gourmet appetizers chosen to complement the taste of each local craft brew served. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, Missoula craft breweries will not disappoint. Book your room at our Missoula Bed and Breakfast today.
