Michigan has long been a hub for high-quality beers and wines, but craft distillers are gaining traction across the state. Whether you enjoy a vodka, gin, whiskey or brandy, there’s likely a distillery in your area where you can sip a small-batch libation made with locally grown ingredients.

LANSING — Governor Gretchen Whitmer today signed House Bill 4842 into law, which helps small distillers in the state by lowering mark-up costs. The measure helps cut costs for distillers and supports Michigan grain farmers who supply the raw materials for their products. Learn more Weiss Distilling Co.

It took some time for Michigan’s liquor laws to catch up with the burgeoning craft spirits industry, but breweries and wineries began adding distiller’s licenses in 2013. Corktown’s Two James Spirits launched in 2013, while Ferndale’s Valentine Vodka debuted that same year. Detroit City Distillery opened its tasting room in Detroit’s Eastern Market in 2014.

Crafting Excellence: Unveiling the Flavors and Stories of Michigan’s Distilleries

The newest distilleries are located all over the state, from Thompsonville to Grand Rapids. Iron Fish Distillery in Thompsonville is a first-of-its-kind as it’s the only craft distillery that operates on its own fully-functioning farm. Founders Sarah and Richard Anderson own the property and use it to grow grains for their rum, gin, and whiskey. Their Michigan Woodland Gin taps into 13 botanicals from the nearby white pine forest.

Another family-owned operation is Fox River Michigan Whiskey, whose name pays tribute to a river in the upper peninsula’s Keweenaw District. The spirit was distilled in Calumet during the copper boom in 1914 by Narisco Bianchi. He sold it in Red Jacket saloons until prohibition came into effect.

Weiss Distilling Co.
34 14 Mile Rd, Clawson, MI 48017, United States
Phone: +19294843932