Wine Me, Shine Me, Dine Me – Must do tour

The Wine Me, Shine Me, Dine Me tour offers an engaging experience in Pigeon Forge, USA that combines the best of local distillery tastings with Tennessee wine and a delicious lunch—all in just under four hours. Priced at $74 per person, this tour is praised for its excellent value, with a 5.0/5 rating based on 355 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate. It departs from a central meeting point in Pigeon Forge, making it easy to join without the hassle of arranging transportation or designated drivers.

This tour is perfect for those who want to sample vodka, moonshine, whiskey, and Tennessee wines without the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads. Guides are known for their passion about Appalachian culture, enhancing the experience with entertaining and informative commentary. While the short duration leaves plenty of time for evening plans, it still delivers a full tasting experience with multiple stops. It’s especially suited for visitors interested in local spirits and culinary delights in a relaxed, friendly setting.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $74 per person for nearly 4 hours of fun
• Visits two distilleries with tastings of vodka, moonshine, and whiskey
• Includes a generous lunch at Junction 35, avoiding typical tourist traps
• Expert guides share Appalachian culture and stories
• Private transportation in a luxury van or limo bus, with bottled water provided
• Tour departs from 2815 Teaster Lane in Pigeon Forge and ends at the same spot

The Main Stops in Pigeon Forge’s Spirit and Wine Scene

Discovering Tennessee’s Sweet Wines at the First Stop

The tour begins with a visit to a Pigeon Forge winery specializing in sweet wines. This stop lasts about 30 minutes and offers a chance to sample a variety of sweet wines, which Tennessee is famous for. For those who prefer drier options, the winery also offers a couple of dry wines, catering to different palates. It’s a casual introduction to the region’s wine culture, with no admission fee, making it a relaxed start to the day.

Luxury Transportation to The Mountain Mile

Travel in style aboard a luxury high-top van or limo bus. This part of the experience sets the tone, with comfortable seating and a friendly guide leading the way. The transportation itself becomes part of the fun, ensuring guests are well taken care of as they shift from one exciting location to another. This approach avoids the hassle of self-driving, which is a common challenge at distilleries, especially for those sampling high-proof spirits.

Visiting Junction 35 for an Authentic Appalachian Experience

The highlight of the tour is the visit to Junction 35 Spirits, owned and operated by Mike and Jenn, the popular Husband/Wife team. Known for their “grain to bottle” spirits, this stop features vodka, moonshine, and whiskey tastings. Visitors get a chance to sample over 36 flavors of moonshine, along with bourbons and tequilas, making it a spirits lover’s paradise.

Savoring a Gourmet Lunch

After the spirit tastings, guests enjoy an amazing lunch at Junction 35. The tour organizers emphasize that this is not a typical bagged lunch but a fresh, well-prepared meal, adding to the overall value. The delicious food complements the spirits and helps keep the mood lively and hungry for more tastings.

Exploring the Tennessee Shine Co. at the Second Location

The afternoon continues at a second venue that features a winery and a moonshine distillery with over 36 flavors. Here, guests sample a variety of moonshine, including different bourbons, whiskeys, and even tequila. The opportunity to taste such a wide selection is a major highlight, and the knowledgeable bartenders make each sampling both fun and educational.

Learning from Passionate Guides and Friendly Bartenders

Throughout the tour, Jenn and her team share interesting stories about Appalachian culture and the history of moonshine-making in the region. Guests praise the guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and their ability to create a relaxed, engaging atmosphere. Bartenders at both locations are described as kind, fun, and very knowledgeable, making each tasting session enjoyable.

Logistics and Practical Details

Meeting Point and Duration

The tour begins at 2815 Teaster Lane in Pigeon Forge and lasts approximately 3 hours 45 minutes. The group size is limited to 20 people, ensuring a personal and relaxed experience. The end point is back at the starting location, making logistics simple for those staying nearby.

Transportation and Included Amenities

Private transportation in a luxury van or limo bus is included, eliminating the need to arrange your own rides. Bottled water is provided throughout, helping guests stay hydrated during tastings. The tour also includes all tastings and a full lunch at Junction 35, making it excellent value for money.

Participation Requirements and Weather Policy

Guests need to bring a valid government-issued ID to taste alcoholic beverages. Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate, though physical limitations are not detailed. The tour is non-refundable, but if canceled due to bad weather, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others in Pigeon Forge

Focus on Authentic Local Experiences

This tour avoids tourist traps by taking guests to favorite local distilleries that the owners shop at themselves. This personal touch means tastings are more genuine, and the atmosphere is less commercial.

Excellent Guide and Service

The guides and bartenders are frequently praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and dedication to making the experience memorable. Many reviews mention Jenn’s personal attention and enthusiasm for Appalachian culture.

Food and Drink Quality

The lunch at Junction 35 is a major highlight, with delicious, fresh food that exceeds typical expectations for a tasting tour. The variety of spirits, especially the over 36 moonshine flavors, makes it stand out for spirits enthusiasts.

Value for Money

Considering the tastings, lunch, private transport, and friendly guides, the $74 price tag is regarded as excellent value. The positive reviews reflect high satisfaction and repeat bookings, with many calling it a must-do in Pigeon Forge.

The Best for Who and When to Book

Ideal for Spirit and Wine Enthusiasts

This tour appeals most to those interested in spirits, moonshine, and Tennessee wines. Its informative guides and wide selection of tastings make it ideal for curious drinkers seeking an authentic taste of Appalachian culture.

Suitable for a Relaxed, Fun-Filled Day

The short duration allows for evening plans afterward, making it a great addition to a day in Pigeon Forge. The group size and friendly atmosphere foster social interaction, perfect for small groups or couples.

Best to Book in Advance

Most bookings are made about 28 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. Given the limited group size and high demand, securing a spot early is recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an age restriction for tasting?
Guests must have a valid government-issued ID to participate in tastings.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers alcohol tastings, bottled water, private transportation, and an included lunch.

Can I bring service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours 45 minutes, with time split between two tasting stops and lunch.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at 2815 Teaster Lane, Pigeon Forge.

Are there any physical requirements?
Most travelers can participate, but specific limitations are not detailed. A valid ID is mandatory for tasting.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or reschedule is offered.

Is this tour suitable for large groups?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, ensuring a personal experience.

Can I customize the experience?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
The authentic spirit tastings at Junction 35 and the delicious lunch are the standout features, with friendly guides making the day memorable.

This Wine Me, Shine Me, Dine Me tour offers a rich taste of Tennessee’s spirits and wines in a friendly, well-organized setting. Its excellent reviews and value make it a top recommendation for anyone wanting a fun, relaxed day exploring local distilleries and culinary delights in Pigeon Forge.