Kettlehouse Brewing (K1)

We stood barefoot on an unoccupied porch and admired the suns resilience despite a late evening down poor. Following a long conversation about the breweries role in the community, its experimental brews, and the experimental ways of serving such brews (see Pilsner on nitro note) we ventured out, satisfied with our visit to the Kettlehouse Brewing taproom (K1), one of Missoula, MT’s finest neighborhood establishments.

One of the many benefits of living in the great state of Montana is being able to purchase quality beers, such as Ketthouse’s own Double Haul IPA and Cold Smoke Scotch Ale in supermarkets and service stations across the State. Having cracked many cans of Kettlehouse beers, we taproom travelers were giddy about the opportunity to taste the full Kettlehouse line-up straight from the source. After tackling the classics mentioned above, which tasted even better at the taproom, we sampled Hopnosis American Pale Ale, Olde Bongwater, and perhaps the best tasting pilsner either of us has ever sampled, Al’s Pilsner. Rarely does one’s to order a Pilsner; we decided to give Al’s a stab based on the suggestion of the nice guy working that night. After taking a sip the only thing I could think was: “Wow! Why is that so light, crisp, and flavorful…why does this feel almost like I am drinking cotton candy?” The answer, we soon found out, was that K1 was serving Al’s on nitro…brilliant (or other Guiness tag line).

K1 one is a neighborhood taproom, defined by its resident craft brew crowd. As is such, as they go, it goes. Located in an area where Downtown Missoula gradually transitions into surrounding neighborhoods, the chances of meeting a friend or neighbor are just as likely as coming across two random guys in town for a conference. K1 has a bike rack, plays good music, and provides tables, bar seating, and a standing area for patrons to enjoy. The taproom opens up to a nice patio space for outdoor enjoyment (rain or shine) and some fresh Montana air. The energy of the loyal customer base flows like the beer, reminiscent of you and your friends’ favorite college hangout. The difference being K1 doesn’t serve rum and Coke or host a power hour, it simply offers arguably Montana’s finest beer, supports it’s community, and provides the locals with a neighborhood gathering spot.

We finished things up in Missoula with a nightcap in a can back at the hotel - courtesy of the nearby service station and the Kettlhouse brewery. What better way to re-connect with regulars who venture out across the state? With everything said and done, the Kettlehouse Taproom tested our evaluation scheme but left us the wiser. What it lacks in amenities is made up for in a huge way by excellent beer a dedicated staff, and a strong sense of community, which we agreed is what the taproom is all about.

Scores:
Beer: 84 of 100
Atmosphere: 37 of 55
People (staff & clientele): 42 of 45
Total: 163 of 200