Believe it or not, Montana’s first distillery in over a century opened in 2005. That’s because Montana didn’t relax the rules banning craft distilleries until that year, so we went quite awhile with a distillery drought. And while Missoula’s oldest distillery, Montgomery Distillery, didn’t open until 2012, it’s housed inside a 130-year-old building — and you’ll want to see it.

This building at 129 W. Front St. dates all the way back to 1889. It was constructed by Edward Schilling, a German immigrant who operated a liquor store in Butte before bringing his profits to Missoula.
Montgomery Distillery Facebook
Schilling ran a liquor warehouse in the west half of the building and a saloon in the east half before converting it to a gentleman’s clothing store in 1892.
While alcohol played a large role in the building's past, it also served as other stores as well.
Montgomery Distillery Facebook
This photo is from the 1950s, when Davies Farm Supply occupied the space.
When Jenny and Ryan Montgomery opened the distillery in 2012, they returned the old building to its former glory.
Foursquare
During the 19th century, 12 saloons called this block home, so it seems especially appropriate to have a distillery here now.

Related Stories

This Wine and Dinner Train In Montana Is Perfect For Your Next Outing

This Wine and Dinner Train In Montana Is Perfect For Your Next Outing

 The One Boat Ride Every Montanan Should Take This Summer

The One Boat Ride Every Montanan Should Take This Summer

 Here's Why Montana's Most Famous Summer Tour Is Worth Taking

Here's Why Montana's Most Famous Summer Tour Is Worth Taking
The spirits here are distilled exclusively from Montana-grown grain.
Montgomery Distillery Facebook
The family grows their own wheat and rye at the Montgomery family ranch near Lewistown, and all the white spirits are made from their own grain.
The cocktail menu here consists of classics and a few creative concoctions, all made from Montgomery spirits.
Foursquare
There's even a booze-free Temperance Menu for children or adults who don't imbibe.
Distillery tours are available on Fridays from 5-6 p.m., and they're both fun and informative.
Montgomery Distillery Facebook
You'll learn about the distillation process and the illustrious drinking history of Missoula's Front Street. Tours cost $5, but that will earn you a $5 discount on a bottle. Call (406) 926-1725 ahead of time to confirm availability.
Montgomery Distillery is open Monday - Saturday from noon until 8p.m. and on Sundays from 2 - 7.
Montgomery Distillery Facebook
Come see why Food & Wine Magazine named this spot one of the 50 Best New Bars in America in 2014.

Have you ever been to Montgomery Distillery? Montana has some fantastic wineries worth visiting as well.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Montana