About

Spotted Bear Spirits is a charming distillery located in the heart of Whitefish, where craftsmanship meets Montana's rugged spirit.

Run by people as passionate about the Montana wilderness as they are their spirits, this distillery embodies the essence of the region, producing handcrafted spirits that capture the wild beauty and adventurous spirit of Montana.

The name "Spotted Bear" pays homage to the nearby Spotted Bear Ranger District, known for its picturesque surroundings and as the point of entry into the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex. This connection to nature is a recurring theme in the distillery's ethos. Spotted Bear Spirits takes pride in using locally sourced ingredients, emphasizing sustainability, and crafting spirits that reflect the unique flavors of Montana.

The distillery's story is one of passion and dedication. The team, inspired by their love for the region and its bountiful resources, embarked on a journey to create artisanal spirits to showcase Montana's finest. They meticulously produce small batches of spirits, paying close attention to quality and detail, ensuring that every bottle tells a story of the Montana wilderness.

Fun Facts & Cool Features

One of the standout features of Spotted Bear Spirits is its commitment to using Montana-grown grains and botanicals in its distillation process whenever possible. This supports local farmers and creates spirits with a distinct Montana character. The result is a lineup of exceptional spirits, including vodka, gin, and whiskey, each with unique flavor profiles.

The distillery offers guided tastings, allowing visitors to gain insights into the art of distillation and the distillery's dedication to sustainability. You'll learn about the distillation process, the locally sourced ingredients, and the passionate people behind each bottle.

The tasting room at Spotted Bear Spirits is a cozy and inviting space, perfect for enjoying handcrafted cocktails made with their own spirits. Whether you prefer a classic dirty martini or a creative concoction, the lounge provides a relaxed atmosphere on a Whitefish getaway.

If you're a bourbon fan, their Midnight Forest is a straight bourbon they've developed in partnership with Backcountry Hunters and Anglers. It's a blend of three different mash bills to concoct a delicious smooth bourbon. And, better yet, a portion of the money from each bottle sold will go toward conservation efforts in the area.

Local Tips

Spotted Bear Spirits is a great place to pick up unique souvenirs or gifts.
You can order your favorites online, too!
Designate a driver or call a ride share if you plan to partake in tastings.
While at the distillery, ask the staff for recommendations on nearby restaurants.

Staging environment