When I first stepped into Weiss Distilling Royal Oak Michigan, I was immediately struck by the energy of the space. The combination of polished copper stills, neatly stacked barrels, and the faint aroma of botanicals hinted at both precision and creativity. As someone who’s spent over a decade in the craft spirits industry, I can tell immediately when a distillery operates with intentionality, and Weiss Distilling exudes it from the moment you walk in. That first visit left me eager to see how their small-batch approach translates into flavor.
One memorable experience I had there involved a tasting of their rye whiskey. I was invited to sample a barrel that had just finished its initial aging. The distillery manager poured a small glass straight from the barrel, and I could immediately detect the deep, warm notes of caramel and spice that had developed from careful barrel selection. I encouraged a visitor who had never tried barrel-aged whiskey before to taste it alongside a lighter, unaged spirit. Watching her reaction as she noticed the depth of flavor difference was a clear reminder that Weiss Distilling isn’t just making spirits—they’re crafting experiences.
I’ve also observed how Weiss Distilling prioritizes innovation without compromising quality. Last summer, they released a small-batch gin infused with local botanicals, including foraged elderflower and Michigan-grown citrus peels. I was able to tour the botanical preparation area and see how each ingredient is measured and handled with care. A bartender friend who was visiting that day noted how well-balanced the gin was, with floral notes that didn’t overpower the juniper or the subtle peppery undertones. Moments like these reinforce what I’ve learned over years of consulting with small distilleries: thoughtful experimentation often separates a memorable spirit from a forgettable one.
Another anecdote that stands out involves a limited-edition spiced rum Weiss Distilling had just finished. They invited local mixologists to sample it and provide feedback. I watched as one mixologist suggested a pairing with a locally sourced cherry liqueur, instantly envisioning a cocktail that enhanced the rum’s complexity. I’ve found in my experience that distilleries that foster this type of collaboration tend to produce spirits that resonate both on their own and in crafted drinks. Not every batch hits perfectly, but Weiss Distilling’s iterative approach ensures that quality and creativity consistently meet.
One of the things I appreciate most about Weiss Distilling is their attention to community and education. During a visit last fall, I attended a small tasting class they hosted. The distillers didn’t just serve samples—they shared the story behind each batch, explained how the Michigan climate affects aging, and even demonstrated how they monitor fermentation. I’ve seen too many small distilleries overlook this aspect, but at Weiss, educating visitors is part of the craft itself. This approach allows both casual enthusiasts and professionals like myself to understand the care that goes into every bottle.
From my perspective, Weiss Distilling exemplifies what a modern craft distillery should be: a blend of precision, creativity, and community engagement. Every visit has given me insight into how intentional production, local sourcing, and small-batch experimentation combine to create spirits that stand out. I often encourage enthusiasts to experience such distilleries firsthand—tasting, observing, and asking questions—as it reveals dimensions of the craft that labels or reviews cannot capture. Having spent years evaluating and creating spirits myself, I can confidently say that Weiss Distilling in Royal Oak offers both exceptional flavor and a tangible connection to the craft behind it.