I love the fact that Michiganders are extremely loyal to Michigan-made products. Working in the wine department here at Nino’s, I find that our guest are always inquiring about Michigan-made wine and liquor.

Two James Distillery

A lot of the Michigan distilleries are cooking up some amazing handcrafted liquors. This past weekend, I visited the Two James Distillery, which is located in Corktown, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Detroit. It’s the first licensed distillery since prohibition!

When I walked into the tasting room, I was met by a huge circular bar jam-packed with people enjoying Saturday-afternoon cocktails. I sipped on a fabulous Fall Mule made with the Two James 28 Island Vodka, cranberry juice, spiced ginger beer and lime juice. It was so spicy and delicious! It is definitely my new favorite. Here are a couple of liquors they create at the Two James Distillery:

Two James Grass Widow Bourbon

Deliciously smooth, made from a high rye mash, it’s spicy, with flavors of hazelnuts and raisins, and aged in Madeira casks.

Two James 28 Island Vodka

This vodka is handcrafted from organic wheat and corn. It’s very smooth and perfect on the rocks or in your favorite cocktail.

Traverse City Whiskey Company

I visited this distillery last fall up in Traverse City at the Traverse City Whiskey Company. The Silhavy family has been making whiskey for three generations, growing its own corn, barley and rye; aging its own barrels; and even hand-labeling the bottles. The whiskey they create has to be some of the smoothest.

Traverse City Whiskey Company Straight Bourbon

On the nose, I get light spice, vanilla, and toasty notes, with flavors of caramel and toffee. I found this very smooth and tasty.

Valentine Tasting Room and Distillery

The Valentine Tasting Room and Distillery is located in Ferndale. Here they believe in using Old World techniques and handmade processing to create some of the purest liquors. The Valentine Liberator Gin proves this to be true.

Valentine Liberator Gin

This gin is slightly peppery with a hint of cinnamon and honey. It’s delicious for your gin and tonic with a squeeze of lime. Very refreshing!

I hope you found this helpful!

Till next time!

Cheers,

Simone

*Liquor is only available at our Troy and Clinton Township locations.