2 days ago
Former Lion Nate Burleson pouring his new vodka in metro Detroit over Father's Day weekend
When Nate Burleson was released by the Detroit Lions in 2014, fans questioned what would become of LionBlood Clothing Co., the wide receiver's clothing line centered on the Detroit team's mascot.
It's been more than a decade since Burleson's time with the Lions, yet he's maintained the LionBlood Clothing Co. and his sense of Detroit pride, and this weekend, he's expanding the brand with a new venture — LionBlood Vodka.
A collaboration with Ferndale distillery Valentine Distilling Co., LionBlood Orange Vodka is a made-in-Michigan, small-batch blend of Valentine vodka infused with notes of blood orange and elderflower. The former NFL star and Emmy Award-winning media personality approached Rifino Valentine, founder and president of Valentine Distilling Co. to create 'a vodka like no other,' according to a news release.
"A lion sleeps in the heart of all of us,' Burleson said in the release, again nodding to the Lions' mascot. 'We hunt for what we want in this world, so the time is now. Remember to savor every sip and conquer your jungle.'
The collaboration launches just in time for Father's Day, and Burleson, a father of three, is encouraging all dads to join him in metro Detroit for the celebration.
Following an 11-year NFL career, the last four seasons with Detroit, Burleson became an analyst for the NFL Network. He joined "The NFL Today" on CBS in 2017 and has been a co-host of "CBS Mornings" since 2021.
On Friday, June 13, Burleson will be pouring drinks and mingling with guests for a meet-and-greet at Belle's Lounge in Ferndale from 6-9 p.m. On Saturday, June 14, he'll sign bottles of LionBlood Orange at Kroger in St. Clair Shores from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
The events offer an opportunity to enjoy a Michigan-made spirit with a Lions icon and a true champion of Detroit pride.
Visit for more information.
Friday, June 13, 6-9 p.m. - Belle's Lounge, 161 Vester St., Ferndale
Saturday, June 14, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. - Kroger, 22801 Harper Ave., St. Clair Shores
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Ex-Lion Nate Burleson pouring new vodka in metro Detroit this weekend
