Adventure brief
B.Y.O.B Experience
Discover the art of bourbon blending at Detroit City Distillery's hands-on experience. Craft your own personalized bottle and learn the secrets behind this iconic spirit in Michigan's Motor City.
Located in Detroit, Michigan, the Detroit City Distillery offers an immersive taste of craft distilling with its unique B.Y.O.B Experience. This tour combines learning, tasting, and hands-on blending, perfect for whiskey aficionados and curious visitors alike. As you step into the distillery, you'll discover the meticulous process behind whiskey-making, from mashing to fermentation to distillation, all narrated by expert staff passionate about their craft.
What makes this experience stand out is the opportunity for guests to become master blenders. You'll sample four carefully curated barrels and learn as you select your favorite notes, aromas, and flavors. Guided through the blending process, each guest crafts a personalized bourbon bottle—truly a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
The behind-the-scenes access and interactive nature of this tour make it engaging for everyone, from seasoned whiskey lovers to first-timers. Detroit's burgeoning craft spirits scene provides a vibrant backdrop for this experience. The distillery’s urban location offers a contrast to traditional rural distilling, emphasizing innovation and craftsmanship.
The friendly team at Detroit City Distillery creates a welcoming environment where visitors can decode the nuances of bourbon and leave with a custom bottle and new appreciation for this complex spirit. Whether you're a “spirits connoisseur” or simply looking for a memorable outing, the B.Y.O.B Experience is an educational and fun way to deepen your understanding of bourbon. It’s a highlight for visitors wanting to take home not just a bottle, but a story and a skill.
This makes Detroit City Distillery not only a business but a hub for local flavor and creative spirits culture, right in the heart of Motor City.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Arrive early for a full experienceinfo
Getting there early ensures you have ample time to participate in all parts of the tour and blending session.
- 02Sip responsiblyessential
Enjoy tastings at a leisurely pace to fully appreciate the flavor profiles without rushing.
- 03Book in advanceinfo
Reserve your spot ahead of time, as this popular experience tends to fill quickly.
- 04Bring a camera
Capture your personalized bourbon bottle and the behind-the-scenes moments of the tour.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Comfortable clothing
Dress comfortably for a relaxed tour and tasting experience.
EssentialNotepad and pen
Jot down flavor notes or personal blending ideas.
Camera or smartphone
Capture your personalized bottle and behind-the-scenes moments.
ID and booking confirmation
Necessary for check-in and age verification.
EssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Adjacent urban brewery with local craft beers, Street art tour nearby
Local fauna
urban birds, squirrels
Historic heritage
Detroit’s revival includes a vibrant spirits scene that revives old traditions with modern twists, embodying the city’s innovative spirit.
Mindful exploration
The distillery emphasizes sustainable practices, sourcing local ingredients and reducing waste.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- distillery floor, custom bourbon bottle display
- Subjects
- the blending process, your unique bottle, urban Detroit backdrop
- Best times
- midday when the lighting is bright
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Is there an age restriction for the tour?
Yes, participants must be at least 21 years old to participate in the bourbon tasting and blending.
Can I buy my blend after the tour?
Absolutely! You can purchase your custom bourbon bottle to take home.
How many people are in each tour?
Tours typically accommodate small groups of 8-12 people to ensure an intimate experience.
Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Please contact the distillery in advance to discuss accessibility options.
Are there other spirits available?
While the main focus is bourbon, the distillery also offers other spirits that may be sampled during your visit.
Is there a tasting fee?
The tasting and blending session is included in the tour price.