Iron Pig Bourbon: So Good It's Illegal
Originally published June 3, 2026.
Editor's note: This is a screenshot of a press release Iron Pig Bourbon Company posted on Facebook on June 3, 2026, shown as originally published. Some details have changed since then: Prohibitioned, one of the two locations mentioned, has since closed as planned, and Iron Pig Smokehouse remains open at 4029 Old US Hwy 27 S in Gaylord. The matter with the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is ongoing.
This post reflects Iron Pig Bourbon Company's account and opinions as of June 3, 2026. It is not legal advice and is not a statement of any court's findings. The matter is pending, and no final decision has been made. Generis Entertainment v. Donley, cited in the post, is a separate pending federal case that does not involve Iron Pig. Read our explainer. This site sells apparel and merchandise only, and no alcohol.
Read the text version
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
IRON PIG BOURBON COMPANY CONDEMNS COORDINATED STATE SEIZURE OF BOURBON AS 4TH AMENDMENT VIOLATION
Gaylord, Michigan – June 3, 2026 – Iron Pig Bourbon Company, Bardstown, KY today announced that all bottles of its bourbon were seized by state authorities in a coordinated operation targeting two Iron Pig locations simultaneously. The action involved five MLCC investigators and Michigan State Police.
The company views this as a clear overreach and intimidation tactic that violates its 4th Amendment rights against unreasonable searches and seizures, as well as Due Process protections.
“We will work diligently with the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) to resolve this matter,” said a spokesman for Iron Pig Bourbon Company. “However, this heavy-handed approach is neither tolerated nor condoned. It is wholly inappropriate for MLCC investigators to gleefully participate—with smiles and chuckles—while violating a licensee’s constitutional rights.”
A recent court ruling bolsters Michigan’s liquor licensee’s 4th amedment [sic] protections from MLCC warrantless searches & seizures as was ruled in GENERIS ENTERTAINMENT LLC v. DONLEY (2025) Case Number 24-12661.
Despite the seizure, both Iron Pig Smokehouse locations remain fully open and operational. Guests can continue to enjoy the best BBQ in Northern Michigan along with a full selection of alcoholic beverages. The only exception is that Gaylord Gold bourbon is no longer available for sale.
“I guess it’s time to change that moniker,” the company spokesman added. “Iron Pig Bourbon — so good it’s illegal!”
Iron Pig Bourbon Company thanks its loyal customers and community for their continued support during these challenging times. The company remains committed to providing exceptional food, drink, and hospitality while defending its rights as a licensed Michigan business.
#RiskItForTheBourbon
Media Contact:
Iron Pig Bourbon Co.
Email: info@ironpigsmoke.com
Phone: 989-448-2070