CRAFT DISTILLERY

Michigan Moonshine Distillery

Grandville,
Michigan
— Moonshine

TOURS AVAILABLE

TASTINGS

RESERVATIONS

BOTTLE SALES

DISTILLERY SNAPSHOT

🌽
Traditional Corn
Small batches, old-school mash bills
📚
Moonshine History
From Prohibition necessity to craft spirit
🥃
Clear Spirits
Unaged corn whiskey, done right
👨‍🔬
Mike VanderKolk
Passion project turned legitimate business
🎯
Single Focus
Moonshine only, no distractions
🏫
Educational Tours
Real talk about traditional methods
📞 (616) 259-1000
🌐 http://michiganmoonshine.us/
📍 4005 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, MI 49418, USA

ABOUT THIS DISTILLERY

Traditional Moonshine Making Finally Goes Legal

Michigan Moonshine Distillery sits on Chicago Drive in Grandville, just outside Grand Rapids, bringing authentic moonshine production to West Michigan. Founded by distiller Mike VanderKolk, who turned his passion for traditional corn whiskey into a legitimate operation, the distillery opened its doors to showcase the craft behind America’s most notorious spirit. VanderKolk spent years perfecting his recipes and navigating the complex regulations to transform what was once an underground tradition into a legal, visitor-friendly business. The operation focuses on small-batch moonshine production using traditional methods and locally-sourced corn when possible. VanderKolk’s approach honors the heritage of moonshine while meeting modern safety and quality standards, creating spirits that capture the authentic character of unaged corn whiskey. The distillery represents Michigan’s growing craft spirits scene, particularly in the moonshine category where few distilleries specialize exclusively. Visitors can experience the moonshine-making process firsthand, learning about the history and techniques behind this uniquely American spirit. The facility offers tastings of their various moonshine expressions, from traditional clear corn whiskey to flavored varieties. It’s a straightforward operation focused on education and quality production rather than flashy amenities, giving you an honest look at craft moonshine distillation in Michigan.

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WHAT SETS THEM APART

Michigan's Only Dedicated Moonshine Specialist

Michigan Moonshine Distillery stands out as one of the few operations in the state dedicated exclusively to moonshine production. While many craft distilleries dabble in unaged spirits, VanderKolk’s focus on perfecting traditional moonshine recipes and methods sets them apart. The distillery emphasizes the historical significance and cultural heritage of moonshine, educating visitors about the spirit’s evolution from Prohibition-era necessity to legitimate craft product. Their commitment to small-batch production and traditional corn mash bills maintains authenticity in a category often diluted by mass-market imitators.

TOURS AVAILABLE

TASTINGS

FOOD AVAILABLE

COCKTAILS

RESERVATIONS

FAMILY FRIENDLY

BOTTLE SALES

THE VISITOR EXPERIENCE

Authentic Education Over Tourist Entertainment

You’ll get a genuine education in moonshine history and production methods during your visit. The tasting room provides a relaxed environment to sample their different moonshine expressions while learning about the distillation process. VanderKolk or his team walk you through the traditional techniques used to create their spirits, explaining the difference between authentic moonshine and flavored grain spirits. The atmosphere is casual and educational rather than polished, focusing on the craft and story behind the spirits you’re tasting.

IS IT WORTH VISITING

For True Spirits Students Absolutely Worth It

This is worth visiting if you’re genuinely interested in moonshine history and production, or if you want to support a small local distillery doing something different in Michigan’s craft spirits scene. You won’t find elaborate facilities or extensive food menus, but you’ll get an authentic look at traditional American spirits-making. It appeals most to spirits enthusiasts curious about moonshine’s legitimate side and visitors who prefer educational experiences over entertainment-focused distillery visits. Don’t expect the bells and whistles of larger operations, but do expect honest conversation about the craft.

⚠️ VISITING TIPS

Call ahead to confirm hours and availability, as this is a small operation that may have irregular schedules or seasonal adjustments. The location on Chicago Drive is straightforward to find, with adequate parking available. Come with questions about moonshine history and production methods – the team enjoys sharing their knowledge with genuinely interested visitors. Try their traditional clear moonshine first to understand the base spirit before moving to flavored varieties. Keep in mind this is primarily a production facility with tasting capabilities rather than a full-scale visitor center.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Michigan Moonshine Distillery — Visitor FAQ

What’s the difference between moonshine and regular whiskey?
Moonshine is typically unaged corn whiskey, meaning it comes straight off the still without barrel aging. This gives it a clear appearance and more direct grain flavors compared to aged whiskeys. Traditional moonshine also uses specific mash bills and production techniques that emphasize the corn’s natural characteristics.
Do I need to make a reservation to visit?
Yes, it’s best to call ahead since this is a small operation with limited staff. They want to ensure someone is available to provide proper attention during your visit and tasting experience.
Can I buy bottles to take home?
Yes, they sell their moonshine products on-site for visitors to purchase. This is a great way to take home authentic Michigan-made moonshine and support the local distillery.

GETTING THERE

Find Michigan Moonshine Distillery

📍4005 Chicago Dr SW, Grandville, MI 49418, USA

 — 

📞 (616) 259-1000

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