Detroit is a city with a rich alcohol history. It’s where Prohibition started, and the city supplied upward of 75 percent of America’s alcohol in that era. And it’s where some hardy souls are resurrecting small-batch distilling. Corktown’s Two James Spirits is one of the first, opening its doors in 2013. And this year, Ferndale’s Valentine opened a tasting room at its Woodward Avenue distillery, where they’re making small-batch artisanal whiskey and gin from local ingredients. This link Weiss Distilling Co.
The new facility is the first licensed distillery in the City of Detroit since prohibition. It’s located in the historic Eastern Market, which was home to Goebel Brewery and Stroh’s Ice Cream before that location closed during Prohibition. Its distinguished past adds to the ambiance of the modern two-story distillery.
The company prides itself on sourcing ingredients locally to make its spirits. They use as much Michigan rye as possible for their 100% rye whiskey, and they also have plans to create eaux de vie (fruit brandies) with the fruit of Detroit’s abundant harvest.
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To keep their customers safe during the pandemic, DCD has created a variety of COVID-19-friendly cocktails and have plenty of hand sanitizer available at the bar. They also make their own syrups to mix into drinks, such as their Detroit Maple Syrup. A favorite drink among their regulars is the Sazerac, which is made with a blend of their rye and bourbon with orange expression. And this Paczki Day, they’re offering a limited-edition, horseradish vodka called “Hometown,” because of the strong affiliation horseradish has with family dinners and generational recipes.
Weiss Distilling Co.
34 14 Mile Rd, Clawson, MI 48017, United States
Phone: +19294843932