Manitou & Co. sits right on West River Street in Leland, Michigan, where Lake Leelanau meets Lake Michigan in one of the state’s most picturesque harbor towns. Founded by Matt and Molly Wiesen, this small-batch distillery opened its doors in 2018 after the couple spent years perfecting their craft and navigating Michigan’s licensing process. The Wiesens converted a historic building in downtown Leland into their production facility and tasting room, creating a space that feels both industrial and intimate. They focus on producing premium vodka, gin, and seasonal spirits using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Matt Wiesen brings a background in engineering to the distilling process, while Molly handles the business operations and hospitality side. Their journey started as a passion project that grew into a full-time commitment to creating spirits that reflect northern Michigan’s character. They work with local farmers for grain and botanicals, and their water comes from the pristine sources that make this region famous. The couple’s hands-on approach means you’re likely to meet them during your visit, and they’re genuinely excited to talk about their process and the challenges of starting a craft distillery in a small tourist town. The distillery operates on a much smaller scale than most visitors expect, which actually enhances the experience. You’re not walking through massive production halls but rather an intimate space where you can see every step of the process up close. The tasting room overlooks the working distillery, and on production days, you can watch them running their custom copper still. The atmosphere captures that perfect balance of serious craftsmanship and northern Michigan’s laid-back vibe, making it a natural stop whether you’re exploring Leland’s shops or planning a longer spirits tour through the region.