Cheers, Montana! Why We Drink More Beer Than Most States

From backyard barbecues to football, beer is the unofficial drink of the American experience. And when it comes to Montana? Well, we’re not just participating—we’re dominating. We love our beer, and it turns out, we love it a lot. We drink more beer per person than almost anyone else in the U.S. *BURP*

How Much Beer Are We Drinking?

In 2022, Montana ranked second in the nation for per capita beer consumption, with 1.58 gallons of ethanol consumed per person every year. For perspective, that’s just behind New Hampshire, which topped the list at 1.66 gallons. But let’s be real...do we need to beat New Hampshire? We’re too busy enjoying our own, perfectly brewed beers to care.

What’s Brewing in Montana?

It’s not all about chugging mass-produced brews (though, we’ll never turn one down). Montana’s craft beer scene is on fire. From Missoula to Bozeman, we’ve got some of the best local breweries in the country, each offering something unique. I have been enjoying the Bayern Doppelbock as well as the standby, Coldsmoke from Kettlehouse.

Why Do We Drink So Much Beer?

The answer’s simple: because it’s Montana. The wide-open spaces, the rugged mountains, the perfect hunting and fishing spots—it all pairs perfectly with a cold one. Whether you're cracking a beer after a long day in the field or enjoying a lazy Sunday afternoon with friends, beer just fits into the Montana lifestyle. I can't imagine mowing the yard (or shoveling snow) and not having a cold beer waiting for me after.

So, the next time you crack open a cold one, raise a glass to be part of one of the best beer-drinking states in the country. Whether you’re in the heart of the city or out in the wild, Montana’s love for beer is as strong as ever. Here’s to good times, good brews, and to keeping Montana’s beer-drinking tradition going strong.