In Montana, there is a thriving craft beer scene with a total of 92 craft breweries. This impressive number places Montana in the top three states in the United States in terms of breweries per capita. As someone who is passionate about both beer and wine, I find this statistic quite fascinating.
Having visited Montana myself, I can attest to the fact that the state has a strong culture of supporting local businesses and embracing craft products. This is particularly evident in the craft beer industry, where Montanans take pride in their locally brewed beers. It is not surprising to see such a high number of breweries in a state with a relatively small population.
However, it is worth noting that not all of these 92 breweries are currently operational. Some may still be in the planning or construction phase, while others may have temporarily closed or changed ownership. Nevertheless, the fact that there are so many breweries, even if some are not currently producing beer, speaks volumes about the passion and interest in craft beer in Montana.
When looking at the production numbers, it is interesting to note that the average production per brewery in Montana is relatively low. In 2019, the breweries in Montana produced a total of 218,547 barrels of beer. Dividing this number by the total number of breweries, we find that each brewery, on average, produced about 2,375 barrels of beer that year.
This lower average production per brewery could be attributed to the fact that many of the breweries in Montana are smaller, independent operations. These breweries may focus on producing high-quality, small-batch beers that cater to a niche market rather than mass-producing large quantities of beer.
As a sommelier and brewer, I appreciate the diversity and creativity that can be found in smaller craft breweries. They often have the freedom to experiment with different flavors, ingredients, and brewing techniques, resulting in unique and interesting beers. This emphasis on quality and innovation is what sets craft breweries apart from larger, more commercial beer producers.
Montana is home to a vibrant craft beer scene, boasting 92 breweries. This number is a testament to the state's love for local and craft products. While the average production per brewery may be relatively low, it is indicative of the focus on quality and creativity in the Montana craft beer industry. Whether you're a beer enthusiast or simply curious about the local flavors, exploring the breweries of Montana can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience.