About Higherground Brewing Co.
Our Story
At just 24 years old, Jasper Miller and Fenn Nelson opened Higherground Brewing Co. in Hamilton, becoming the youngest brewery owners in Montana. The lifelong friends transformed the old Grocery Emporium into a vibrant taproom that showcases a variety of beer styles, alongside delicious wood-fired pizza and fresh salads.
Choosing Hamilton as their location was a no-brainer; it was home. With deep roots in the Bitterroot Valley and unwavering support from friends, family, and the community, it was the ideal place to bring their brewing vision to life.
The brewing team constructed much of the brewery themselves—most notably, a stunning 54-foot concrete bar—incorporating local ingredients, artwork, and the unique character of the Bitterroot Valley throughout the space.
Higherground Brewing Co. offers more than just craft beer and wood-fired pizza; it’s a gathering place shaped by local hands and shared history. Whether you’re a longtime local or just passing through Hamilton, it’s a place to slow down, connect, and feel part of something deeply rooted.
Discover Higherground Brewing Co. TEAM Members
Dillon Dodson – General Manager
Dillon Dodson has been with Higherground Brewing Co. since day one, growing alongside this beloved brewery in the Bitterroot Valley every step of the way. He started his journey as a dishwasher, quickly proving himself through hard work, dedication, and a deep passion for various beer styles. Over the years, Dillon worked his way through every role in the kitchen, steadily rising through the ranks to become manager and now General Manager. His deep understanding of both the front and back of house, combined with his commitment to the Higherground vision and the use of local ingredients, make him an essential part of our brewing team and leadership.
Outside the brewery, Dillon enjoys hitting the disc golf course in Hamilton, skateboarding, and getting his hands dirty working on cars. His drive, creativity, and laid-back attitude carry through everything he does—on and off the clock, including crafting our famous wood-fired pizza.
Justin Gillespie- Brewer
At Higherground Brewing Co., located in the beautiful Bitterroot Valley, we source only the finest local ingredients for our diverse beer styles, including locally grown hops and specialty malts. Our dedicated brewing team brews each batch with care and attention to detail, ensuring a consistent and exceptional taste in every pint of our beer. Plus, enjoy a perfect pairing with our wood-fired pizza, all while being part of the vibrant Hamilton community.
Kera Giese- Front of House Manager
At Higherground Brewing Co. Brewery in Hamilton, we are passionate about crafting high-quality, flavorful beer styles that showcase the best local ingredients. Our journey began in a small garage, where our brewing team experimented with different ingredients and techniques to create unique brews that our community loves, all while enjoying some delicious wood-fired pizza.
Cory Hernandez- Front of House Manage
At Higherground Brewing Co., located in the heart of the Bitterroot Valley, our brewing team meticulously selects the finest local ingredients and brews a variety of beer styles. From fermenting our beers at precise temperatures to serving them alongside our delicious wood-fired pizza, we take great care in every step of the brewing process. Our commitment to quality ensures that each pint of our beer is a true delight for your taste buds, fostering a strong sense of community in Hamilton.
Ann Newman- Front of House Crew
Craftsmanship is at the heart of everything we do at Higherground Brewing Co. in Hamilton. Our skilled brewing team meticulously crafts each batch of beer, incorporating local ingredients to ensure that every pint delivers a burst of flavor and quality. With a variety of beer styles to choose from and delicious wood-fired pizza to complement your drink, you can taste the dedication and community spirit of the Bitterroot Valley in every sip.
Kristian Grey- Asst. Brewer/Kitchen Crew
Discover a wide array of beer styles at Higherground Brewing Co. in the heart of Hamilton, where our brewing team crafts everything from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and refreshing lagers using local ingredients. Whether you're a seasoned beer aficionado or just starting your journey in craft beer, our brewery offers something that will delight your taste buds, all while supporting our vibrant Bitterroot Valley community. Don’t forget to pair your favorite brew with our delicious wood-fired pizza!