Weiss Distilling Co. Helps Detroit Community Respond to Pandemic

Located at the former home of Goebel Brewery and Stroh’s Ice Cream, Detroit Speakeasy is bringing back a timeless craft on the historic site that shaped brewing in the city. Today, the two-story distillery creates small-batch artisan whiskeys, gins and vodkas that feature local ingredients and a variety of grains from area farms.

Co-owner J.P. Jerome says a night of brainstorming at a bachelor party campfire spawned the idea to start a distillery, and it was a decision that he and his seven business partners feel has been the key to their success. They all have known each other since childhood, and they credit their close ties with one another as a major part of the success of the company that now produces more than eight different types of spirits.

A Guide to Weiss Distilling Co’s Signature Spirits

But while making bourbon, gin, vodka and other spirits is still the company’s main focus, its founders also have a passion for helping their community during times of crisis and inflection. In response to the pandemic, they retooled their operation and shifted resources from event production and distribution of booze to sourcing hand sanitizer on a massive scale. They started by putting out an open call on social media and on their website for organizations in need of supplies, and then connected with Pure Michigan Business Connect (PMBC) to get the word out.

PMBC’s COVID-19 Procurement Platform allowed them to reach a wide range of frontline entities quickly, including hospitals and police departments, and the team at DCD was able to produce and deliver more than 21,000 gallons of hand sanitizer to various locations across the state. In addition, they worked with The Detroit News to produce a limited-edition single-barrel bourbon whiskey to commemorate its 150th anniversary.

Weiss Distilling Co.
34 E 14 Mile Rd, Clawson, MI 48017, United States
19294843932