Business Details
28 Years
experience
Craft Beer & Taproom in Helena, MT
Founded in 1998 by three passionate homebrewers, Blackfoot River Brewing Company River Brewing Company has become a cornerstone of Helena's craft beer scene. Our commitment to traditional brewing methods and premium ingredients ensures every batch reflects our dedication to quality. We prioritize community engagement through events like the Helena Ridge Challenge and maintain a taproom that fosters connection among locals and visitors alike. Our brewing philosophy emphasizes unfiltered, unpasteurized beers crafted with care, using malt, hops, and yeast tailored to each style. With over two decades of experience, we combine technical expertise with a deep respect for beer's artisanal roots. Our facility houses a 15-bbl European brewhouse and multiple conditioning tanks to support annual production of approximately 3,200 barrels.We maintain strict quality control by avoiding filtration and artificial finings, ensuring our beers retain their natural character. Our team of seasoned brewers and hospitality staff creates an environment where beer enthusiasts can enjoy award-winning craft brews in a welcoming atmosphere. Through partnerships with local organizations and sustainable practices like keg reuse, we remain committed to Helena's community and environment. Our taproom's rotating selection of 15+ beers, including seasonal specialties and experimental batches, ensures there's always something new to discover.
Services
Craft Beer Brewing
Taproom Service
Beer Catering
Merchandise Sales
Community Events
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- Pioneering Montana craft brewery since 1998 with award-winning recipes
- Uses premium imported and local ingredients tailored to each beer style
- Hosts community events like the annual Helena Ridge Challenge
- Offers 15+ rotating beer styles including experimental small batches
- Maintains traditional brewing methods with unfiltered, unpasteurized beers
What people say
Exceptional beer quality
Welcoming atmosphere
Community-focused events
Knowledgeable staff
Unique brewing methods
Services
Craft Beer Brewing
We craft traditional ales and lagers using European brewing techniques. Our 15-bbl Bavarian brewhouse produces 3,200 barrels annually across 6 standard and 2 specialty fermenters. Each beer uses carefully selected malt, hops, and yeast strains matched to specific styles.
Taproom Service
Our downtown Helena taproom serves 15+ rotating beer styles daily. Guests enjoy unfiltered, unpasteurized brews in a two-level space with outdoor seating. Specials include discounted growler fills on Wednesdays and Sundays.
Beer Catering
We provide keg sales and event catering services for private functions. Available options include 1/6 BBL and 10L kegs with deposits required. Our team assists with keg reservations and event planning.
Merchandise Sales
Our taproom offers branded apparel, glassware, and outdoor gear. Products include insulated growlers, t-shirts, hoodies, and accessories from local and sustainable brands like MiiR and Freefly.
Community Events
We organize initiatives like the Helena Ridge Challenge, which combines outdoor recreation with community support. Completing this hiking/biking challenge earns participants free drinks and merchandise.
People
Brian Smith
Legacy Partner
Co-founder and homebrewing pioneer in Helena since 1990. Enjoys outdoor activities like kayaking and mountain biking. Holds economics background and helped establish Montana's craft beer scene.
Tim Chisman
Managing Partner, Head Brewer
Award-winning brewer with American Brewers Guild certification. Professional brewing career since 2004. Oversees beer production and quality control while mentoring staff in Helena's craft beer community.
Bethany Flint
Managing Partner
Joined Blackfoot River Brewing Company River Brewing Company in 2009 after academic career in Asian studies. Manages business operations while promoting Montana's craft beer culture. Enjoys outdoor recreation with her family and dogs.
Sarah Simpson
Taproom Manager
Oversees daily taproom operations with focus on customer experience. Combines hospitality expertise with passion for craft beer. Organizes community events and outdoor activities.
Seth Berg
Brewer
Helena native and all-grain homebrewer turned professional. Pursuing business degree while working in production. Aspires to open his own brewery someday.
Questions
What makes Blackfoot River Brewing Company River Brewing Company's beer unique?
We use premium imported malts, hand-selected hops, and traditional yeast strains tailored to each beer style. Our unfiltered, unpasteurized brewing process preserves natural flavors.
Can I buy beer to go?
Yes! We sell 1/2-gallon glass growlers ($5), MiiR insulated growlers ($59), and offer keg sales for events (1/6 BBL from $85 and 10L from $50).
Do you host special events?
Yes! Our annual Helena Ridge Challenge combines outdoor recreation with free beer rewards. We also partner with local organizations for art walks and charity drives.
Are pets allowed?
Well-behaved pets are welcome in our downstairs outdoor areas. We provide water bowls and maintain pet-friendly spaces during warmer months.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit cards, cash, and mobile payment options at our taproom. Gift cards are available for purchase online or by phone.
Do you offer brewery tours?
While we don't provide regular production tours, our taproom staff can explain our brewing process and equipment specifications upon request.
Reviews (5)
Dan G.
Nov 10, 2021
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Friendly service. Great brews. Staff was super patient with me being new to Montana and the process for ordering beer here. They were also super patient with my daughter when she was trying to decide on a drink even though they were very busy! So I ordered a stout. DELISH! But the crazy part is that for a beer for me and a soda for the kid it was only $6. Compared to what we were paying in the last state (the name that shall not be mentioned) that is a steal! Great hangout!
Ray Buran
Aug 25, 2021
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This is by far the friendliest microbrewery in town. There's always a crowd with all types of folks there and the staff is the most friendliest around. My favorite beer is the "Cream Ale" It's just simply great and goes down sooooo Smooth!!!
David Danner
Aug 23, 2021
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Great beers, great location near downtown & the famous walking mall. Wish we had more time to stay longer and try a sample of all their beers.
2 levels. With patio on upper deck. Also has seating right out front on the street. Friendly staff.
2 levels. With patio on upper deck. Also has seating right out front on the street. Friendly staff.
Steve Wagner
Aug 21, 2021
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Terrific spot. Scottish ale was terrific, very comfortable atmosphere and friendly staff. Loved the outdoor seating space. They also allow you to bring food from nearby restaurants
Kevin D.
Aug 13, 2021
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Love the beer and the environment. Our favorite Helena brew and brewery. Have come here for years. Not sure why those like myself are charged more for filling half growlers. 9.50 for a full and 6.00 for a half. Doesnt seem like it should cost more to fill a half growler. My wife does not like beer so a full will go to waste. Will not be purchasing my half growler fills here.
