Craft beer, craft cocktails and local wine are all climbing to new heights as the wave of local, fresh and quality drinks is shaping consumer preference. More local food, flavors and drinks are popping up on shelves and on menus than ever before, with the alcohol segment most popular. One local company in the metro Detroit area has been making its craft spirits long before the trend took off. Valentine Distilling began in 2008 in Ferndale, MI. Started by Rifino Valentine, the distillery packages five SKU’s including its first offering, Valentine vodka. They also produce White Blossom vodka, Liberater gin, Liberater Old Tom gin and the Woodward Bourbon whiskey.
The company has 12 employees and runs five days a week, producing 240 cases per day. Since 2008, the company has already outgrown its original location, which was in the back of the company’s cocktail lounge in downtown Ferndale. From 3,500 to 15,000 square feet, the company upgraded its space, moving to a warehouse district less than two miles away from the successful lounge and retail location.