Bourbon & Blood: A Tennessee Whiskey History & Tasting Experience

Discover the Unique Tennessee Whiskey & True Crime Tour in Nashville

The Bourbon & Blood: A Tennessee Whiskey History & Tasting Experience offers an engaging journey into Nashville’s past, blending whiskey tasting with stories of crime, corruption, and bootlegging during Prohibition. Priced at $44.95 per person, this 2-hour tour provides a carefully curated look at the roots of Tennessee spirits, making it a perfect choice for whiskey enthusiasts, history buffs, and fans of true crime.

Starting at Standard Proof Whiskey Co., the tour visits three exclusive tasting rooms, each showcasing distinctive whiskeys with curated flights of three half-ounce pours. The experience combines immersive storytelling with visits to famous Nashville landmarks like Printer’s Alley and the hidden speakeasy at The Ariston. While the tour proceeds rain or shine, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a business casual dress code and age 21+.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $44.95, lasts about 2 hours, and features visits to three premium tasting rooms.
• Highlighting Nashville’s Prohibition Era: It explores crime, corruption, and bootlegging stories tied to Tennessee whiskey’s history.
• Tastings: Each stop offers a curated flight of three whiskey pours—note that alcoholic beverages are sold separately.
• Guided Experience: The tour is led by an expert whiskey guide, with storytelling that makes history lively and engaging.
• Strict Dress Code and Rules: Men must wear collared shirts and closed-toe shoes, and no athletic gear is permitted.
• Weather and Cancellations: The tour runs rain or shine, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Starting Point and Meeting Details in Nashville

The tour begins at Standard Proof Whiskey Co. located at 219 Rep. John Lewis Way N. It concludes at The Ariston, a speakeasy-inspired cigar bar at 508 Church St. Both locations are accessible near public transportation, making it easy for visitors to find and plan their day around.

Inside the Itinerary: Stops on the Prohibition Trail

Standard Proof Whiskey Co.: Infused Whiskey Tastings

The tour kicks off at Standard Proof Whiskey Co., where visitors sample innovative infused whiskeys unlike anything typically found in Nashville. The focus on unique flavors sets the tone for the experience, emphasizing craftsmanship and creativity in whiskey making. The tasting here lasts approximately 30 minutes and is free of charge with your ticket.

Nashville Barrel Company Distillery: A Local Favorite

Next, the group visits Nashville Barrel Company, established in 2018 by a team of friends dedicated to quality spirits. This stop allows guests to taste locally crafted whiskeys, emphasizing the small-batch approach. The 30-minute visit highlights the passion and craftsmanship behind Nashville’s newer distilling scene.

Printer’s Alley: The Heart of Nashville’s Speakeasy History

The third stop is Printer’s Alley, renowned for its speakeasies and underground gaming houses during Prohibition. Guests walk through this infamous street, learning about its dark and secretive past. The history of bootlegging and illicit bars in Printer’s Alley offers a vivid glimpse into Nashville’s gritty underbelly during the 1920s and 30s.

The Ariston: A Speakeasy-Inspired Cigar Bar

The final stop is The Ariston, a famous cigar bar modeled after Prohibition-era speakeasies. Here, guests can enjoy the story of Tennessee whiskey intertwined with the glamour and danger of the prohibition years. The location’s atmosphere immerses visitors in the hidden world of bootlegging, making for an evocative conclusion to the tour.

The Role of the Whiskey Tasting Expert

Throughout the tour, a knowledgeable whiskey guide leads storytelling sessions, explaining the history of Tennessee whiskey, famous figures, and the connection to crime. While tastings are not included in the ticket price, the guide provides expert insights to enhance the appreciation of each whiskey and the historical context.

Practical Information: Dress Code and Weather Policy

Guests are expected to adhere to a business casual dress code—men must wear collared shirts and closed-toe shoes. Athletic gear and cargo shorts are not permitted. The tour operates rain or shine, so travelers should plan accordingly. In the case of severe weather warnings, the tour may be rescheduled, and full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

Value and Booking Considerations

At $44.95, the tour offers a value-packed experience with visits to three distinguished Nashville venues. However, alcoholic beverages are sold separately at each stop, which travelers should budget for additionally. The tour is most suitable for those comfortable with a moderate pace and dressing appropriately.

Customer Feedback and Common Praise

While the overall rating stands at 4.4 from 14 reviews, feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides and engaging storytelling as standout features. Guests particularly appreciate the recommendations for drinks and the insight into Nashville’s history, making it a favorite experience for many visitors.

Final Thoughts on the Bourbon & Blood Experience in Nashville

This tour combines history, storytelling, and whiskey tasting into a unique exploration of Nashville’s Prohibition era. Its guided visits to iconic venues and curated whiskey flights make it an appealing option for adults interested in Nashville’s gritty past and craft spirits.

While alcohol is purchased separately, the immersive stories and historic stops provide a meaningful context that enhances the tasting experience. The tour’s strict dress code and rain-or-shine policy mean visitors should be prepared, but most will find the value and authenticity well worth it.

Ideal for history enthusiasts, whiskey lovers, and those curious about Nashville’s bootlegging days, this experience offers a fun, educational, and spirited journey through Tennessee’s storied past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the whiskey tastings included in the ticket price?
No, tastings are sold separately at each location, but the price includes visits to three premium tasting rooms with curated flights.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

What is the dress code?
Guests are required to wear business casual attire, with men needing to wear collared shirts and closed-toe shoes.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour proceeds rain or shine, but severe weather warnings may result in rescheduling.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Standard Proof Whiskey Co. (219 Rep. John Lewis Way N) and ends at The Ariston (508 Church St).

Can I cancel the tour if I change my plans?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

Is this tour appropriate for all ages?
No, proof of age 21 or older is required, and no exceptions are made.

How many people can join the tour?
The maximum group size is 100 travelers.