Montgomery Distillery

Montgomery Distillery is a cozy, family-owned distillery that has become a true gem of downtown Missoula in the USA. Housed in a magnificent 1889 brick building, this place is steeped in an Old West atmosphere and historic charm, harmoniously blending with the modern art of craft spirit production.

The distillery's standout feature is its strict "farm-to-bottle" approach. Founders Ryan and Jenny Montgomery use grain grown on their own family farm in central Montana. They produce small batches of high-quality Quicksilver Vodka, gin, and a single malt whiskey that was awarded a prestigious gold medal at an international competition in 2019.

A visit here is more than just a tasting; it's an opportunity to connect with tradition. Traditional distillation methods, the use of German copper stills, and manual labor at every stage turn each bottle into a unique product reflecting the character of the Rocky Mountains region.

To confirm current tour times or to book a table in the tasting room, you can use the official communication channels. Montgomery Distillery is open to communication and always welcomes guests interested in the craft beverage culture of Missoula.

The highlight for visitors at Montgomery Distillery is the production tour. You can witness the entire journey of grain turning into a fine spirit: from barley milling to the magic happening inside the gleaming German-made copper stills. The fermentation and filtration processes are open to curious tourists, and guides are happy to share the secrets of their craft, inspired by the traditions of Scottish distilleries.

After exploring the production facilities, it's worth stopping by the tasting room. Its original brick walls and authentic setting provide the perfect backdrop for sampling premium spirits. Here, you'll be offered not only neat whiskey or vodka but also expertly crafted signature cocktails that feature local ingredients and house-made mixers.

Don't forget to visit the distillery shop to purchase a bottle of your favorite spirit as a souvenir. The atmosphere of the historic building, which once served as a liquor warehouse and saloon, makes your time here especially cozy, turning a simple visit into an educational and aesthetic journey into the world of quality spirits.

Finding Montgomery Distillery is easy, as it is located in the heart of historic downtown Missoula at 129 W Front St. The attraction is in the immediate vicinity of the city's main pedestrian area, making it an ideal stop during a walking tour of downtown.

If you are arriving from Missoula Montana Airport (MSO), the trip by car or taxi will take only 10–15 minutes. For those who prefer public transport, the Mountain Line bus network runs regularly through the city center, with stops located within a few minutes' walk of the distillery.

Travelers with their own or rented cars can use street parking directly in front of the building or nearby parking lots. The coordinates are 46.8702167, -113.9963444, and using standard navigation systems will help you find the most convenient route.

The building that houses Montgomery Distillery today is a genuine architectural landmark. It was built in 1889 by Edward Schilling, a German immigrant who made his fortune in the wholesale liquor trade. At the time, this stately brick structure stood out among the wooden buildings of early Front Street, symbolizing the region's prosperity.

In the late 19th century, the building was a hub of activity: the western part served as a liquor warehouse, while the eastern part housed a bustling saloon. In the Rocky Mountains, such establishments were more than just bars; they were centers of social life where miners and loggers could pick up mail, get a haircut, or even attend a court session. The selection of drinks back then was impressive, ranging from champagne to the legendary Rocky Mountain Punch.

The modern history of the enterprise began in 2012 when Ryan Montgomery decided to revive family traditions. Ryan underwent rigorous training, from homebrewing abroad to a full apprenticeship at the famous Springbank distillery in Scotland under the guidance of master distiller Frank McHardy. Interestingly, the Montgomery family has owned their own farm for over 90 years, which became the foundation for their unique production concept.

To fully enjoy your visit to Montgomery Distillery, it is recommended to set aside 1 to 2 hours. This is ample time to join a fascinating tour of the production area and enjoy a tasting of the flagship spirits in a relaxed setting.

If you plan to do more than just shop and want to dive into the details of the distillation process while trying signature cocktails in the tasting room, allow for two hours. This will let you appreciate the interior of the historic building without rushing and ask questions to the masters of their craft.

The distillery welcomes guests daily, offering a convenient schedule for both weekday and weekend visits. From Monday to Saturday, the doors are open from 12:00 to 19:45, and on Sunday, the distillery opens slightly later, from 14:00 to 19:45.

Since tour times may change depending on the season or production cycle, it is highly recommended to check the distillery's official website for the current schedule before your visit.

A visit to the distillery can easily be combined with exploring other interesting spots in the city. Missoula is rich in historic architecture and cultural sites, many of which are just steps away from Front Street.

Exploring the surroundings will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of the Old West and see how historical heritage harmoniously coexists with modern urban life. Below are the nearest attractions: