Gatlinburg: Wine and Moonshine Walking Tour with Tastings

Discover Appalachian Flavors on a Walking Tour in Gatlinburg

The Gatlinburg: Wine and Moonshine Walking Tour with Tastings offers a flavorful journey through Tennessee’s storied beverage traditions. Priced at $54 per person and lasting 3.5 hours, this tour is designed for those curious about Appalachian spirits and wines. It departs from a covered pavilion across from Ol’ Red, just outside the downtown parking area, making it easy to find and convenient to join.

This tour combines guided tastings at distilleries and a winery with VIP treatment and an exclusive look into the distillation process. You’ll enjoy custom lineup tastings at each stop, a homemade cocktail, and insightful commentary on the region’s moonshine history. While the pace requires some walking—about 0.7 miles in total—it’s accessible for most physically capable visitors and provides a relaxed but engaging experience.

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Key Points

• Price: $54 per person for a 3.5-hour tour
• Includes: Guided tastings, VIP winery experience, homemade cocktail
• Stops: Two distilleries and one winery
• Highlights: Behind-the-scenes of distillation, tasting custom lineups, learning about moonshine history
• Accessibility: Suitable for those able to walk at a moderate pace; not recommended for pregnant women or individuals under 21

Meeting Point and Logistics in Gatlinburg

The tour begins at a covered pavilion directly across from Ol’ Red in Gatlinburg. This spot is just outside the downtown parking garage, making it easy for participants to locate. The tour does not include transportation to the meeting point, so guests should plan accordingly.

The guided tour is led in English by a knowledgeable guide from Smoky Tours. The group size is manageable, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere. The tour typically takes place in the evening, offering a relaxed setting after a day of exploration.

Exploring the Distilleries: Behind-the-Scenes and Tastings

The tour features visits to two distilleries where guests gain an exclusive look at the distillation process. If possible, a distiller provides a back-of-house tour, revealing how moonshine is crafted. Otherwise, guides are available to answer questions about the moonshine-making process.

The custom tasting lineup at each distillery ensures visitors sample a variety of spirits, with a focus on local flavors. One distillery emphasizes homemade spirits, while the other offers the chance to sip a cocktail made from on-site spirits. These tastings are designed to showcase the unique characteristics of Appalachian moonshine and Tennessee wines.

Tennessee’s Renowned Wineries and Sweet Wines

A highlight of the tour is the stop at a local winery, where VIP treatment enhances the experience. Visitors sample Tennessee’s famous sweet wines in a relaxed setting. This part of the tour offers insight into the region’s wine production, contrasting with the spirits from the distilleries while still maintaining the theme of alcohol craftsmanship.

Guests appreciate the informative commentary on the history and significance of moonshine in Appalachia, combined with the opportunity to relax and enjoy the scenic walk between stops. The walk itself adds a peaceful, scenic element to the experience, making it more than just a tasting.

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The Homemade Cocktail and Extra Insights

At the second distillery, participants enjoy a homemade cocktail crafted from on-site spirits, providing a perfect ending to the tasting experience. When possible, a distiller may give an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour, adding depth to the understanding of spirits production.

Throughout the tour, guides share interesting stories and historical context, making the experience both educational and entertaining. The VIP treatment ensures a comfortable, engaging environment for all attendees.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

While the tour is generally accessible, it requires guests to walk approximately 0.7 miles at a moderate pace and stand for up to 3 hours. It is not suitable for pregnant women or guests under 21 due to the nature of tastings and alcohol consumption.

Participants should be prepared for some standing and walking, but the pace is manageable for most visitors in moderate physical condition. The tour’s wheelchair accessibility makes it an option for some guests with mobility needs, but additional assistance may be helpful.

Value and Overall Experience

At $54, this tour offers good value considering the multiple tastings, VIP experiences, and behind-the-scenes insights. The 3.5-hour duration allows enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. Guests consistently describe the experience as fun, informative, and worth the price, with particular praise for the guide’s patience and friendliness.

The small group size fosters a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for those interested in learning about Appalachian spirits and wines without feeling overwhelmed. The combination of distillery tours, tastings, and scenic walks makes this a well-rounded experience for anyone wanting to explore Gatlinburg’s local beverage traditions.

Final Thoughts on the Gatlinburg Wine and Moonshine Tour

This tour offers an engaging look into Tennessee’s moonshine and wine culture, combining educational content with delicious tastings. It’s perfect for visitors who enjoy spirits, wines, and good company, especially those interested in local history. The VIP treatment and scenic walk add special touches that elevate the experience beyond a simple tasting.

While it’s not suited for those unable to walk or under 21, most guests will find it an enjoyable, informative, and flavorful outing. The friendly guides and carefully curated stops make it a highlight for anyone exploring Gatlinburg’s beverage scene.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking approximately 0.7 miles at a moderate pace and standing for up to 3 hours, so it may not be suitable for those with significant mobility challenges. Wheelchair accessibility is available, but some assistance might be needed.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, the tour is not suitable for guests under 21 due to the alcohol tastings involved.

What is included in the price?
The $54 fee covers the guided tour, tastings at distilleries, VIP winery experience, and a homemade cocktail.

Can I cancel if I change my plans?
Yes, guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for last-minute changes.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at a covered pavilion across from Ol Red, just outside the downtown Gatlinburg parking garage.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 3.5 hours, usually scheduled for the evening.

What makes this tour stand out?
The behind-the-scenes look at distillation, custom tastings, and VIP treatment at both stops make this experience unique and personal.

Is alcohol consumption mandatory?
Yes, tastings and cocktails are part of the experience, and guests should be prepared to sample spirits and wines.

What is the guide’s role?
Guides from Smoky Tours lead the group, share stories, answer questions, and ensure a friendly, educational atmosphere.

Is this tour good value for the price?
With multiple stops, VIP treatment, tastings, and a scenic walk, many find the $54 price to be quite reasonable for a comprehensive experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby