Famous Moonshine & Wine Tour From Pigeon Forge

Discover Tennessee’s Moonshine and Wine Scene for $70

The Famous Moonshine & Wine Tour from Pigeon Forge offers a flavorful half-day experience for $70 per person. Operating in Sevierville, this 3 to 5-hour tour takes visitors to several local distilleries and wineries, providing complimentary tastings at each stop. The tour is ideal for those interested in Tennessee’s rich tradition of moonshine and wine, with a focus on small-group exploration and insider insights.

This tour is booked an average of 26 days in advance, making it a popular choice in the area. It includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a variety of tastings, including moonshine, wine, whiskey, vodka, rum, and cider. While it does not include hotel pickup, it offers a convenient and engaging way to sample the local spirits and wines without the hassle of self-driving.

Key Points

• Price of $70 per person for a 3- to 5-hour guided experience
• Visits to multiple distilleries and wineries in Sevierville and Pigeon Forge
• Complimentary tastings at each venue, including moonshine, wine, whiskey, vodka, rum, and cider
• Expert guide provides insights into the history of moonshine and prohibition
• Small-group size enhances personal attention and interaction
• Tour operates rain or shine, with most stops offering inside tastings

Guided Tour of Local Moonshine and Wineries in Sevierville

This tour departs from 220 Apple Valley Rd, Sevierville, TN, at 12:00 pm, with the group traveling in a comfortable vehicle led by an experienced local guide. The small-group format, capped at 15 travelers, ensures a more personalized experience and friendly atmosphere. The tour covers several stops, each offering tastings and insights about the region’s spirits and wines.

The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to include varied venues, giving a well-rounded taste of East Tennessee’s alcohol scene. Visitors get an opportunity to sample traditional moonshine made from corn mash, rye, and sweet flavors like strawberry shortcake, as well as local wines from mountain vineyards. The tour ends back at the original meeting point, providing a relaxed pace for enjoying each venue.

Appetizing Stops at Apple Barn Winery and Apple Cider Company

The experience begins at Apple Barn Winery, where a wine tasting introduces the region’s wine varieties. The 30-minute stop allows visitors to explore the wine cellar and sample local wines, renowned for their quality and regional character.

Next, the Apple Barn Hard Cider Company offers a cider tasting with the same generous time frame. Guests can enjoy refreshing apple ciders and learn about cider-making traditions, all within a cozy, welcoming environment. These stops set a relaxed tone and highlight Sevierville’s fruit-based beverage traditions.

Hillside Winery and Tennessee Homemade Wines

Following the initial stops, the tour visits Hillside Winery, where another 30-minute wine tasting takes place. This venue is known for its mountain-grown wines that reflect the local terroir. Expect to sample a selection of wines that showcase the best flavors of East Tennessee.

The tour continues at Tennessee Homemade Wines, which is highlighted for offering some of the best wines in Tennessee. The tasting here is included in the tour price, and guests enjoy the opportunity to try a variety of regional wines with insights from the guide. This stop emphasizes Tennessee’s growing reputation for quality wine production.

Double Stop at Tennessee Shine Co.: Moonshine and Wine

One of the tour’s most popular highlights is the Tennessee Shine Co. visit. This venue offers a double tasting experience—both moonshine and wine—within a 60-minute session. The location is known for its excellent moonshine made from traditional ingredients like corn and rye, alongside a selection of wines.

Guests get to sample different moonshines, including sweet flavors such as strawberry shortcake, and enjoy inside tastings at a venue that features fascinating history about Tennessee’s prohibition era. The combination of moonshine and wine tasting in one stop makes this a standout part of the tour.

Smith Creek Moonshine: Nashville’s Southern Hospitality

The next stop is Smith Creek Moonshine, a Nashville-based company praised for excellent moonshine and southern hospitality. The 30-minute visit allows for free tastings of their signature spirits, emphasizing their friendly service and quality production.

This venue adds a local Nashville flavor to the experience, and guests appreciate the opportunity to try authentic moonshine made with traditional methods. The stop is a good example of Tennessee’s reputation for spirited craftsmanship.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The tour includes transportation to each location, so participants can relax and fully enjoy the tasting experience. The local guide shares interesting stories and history about moonshine and prohibition, enriching each visit with context and background.

Tastings cover a broad spectrum: moonshine, wine, whiskey, vodka, rum, and cider. This variety ensures a diverse experience, appealing to many tastes. The tour operates rain or shine, with stops mostly inside at each venue, so dressing appropriately for weather is advised.

Participants must be 21 or older and bring a photo ID. The tour is not recommended for those with mobility issues, and it does not include hotel pick-up or drop-off. It’s a great option for those seeking a convenient, guided introduction to Tennessee’s alcohol heritage.

The Role of the Tour Guide: Friendly and Knowledgeable

Many reviews emphasize the friendly demeanor and knowledge of the guide. Pam is frequently praised for her considerate, fun, and informative approach, making the experience more engaging. She provides recommendations and shares stories that bring the local spirits’ history to life.

Travelers report that having a dedicated guide enhances the experience, making stops more enjoyable and less stressful. The small size of the group encourages conversation and personalized attention.

Duration, Pace, and Overall Experience

The expected duration of 3 to 5 hours gives enough time to tour several venues without feeling rushed. The pacing is generally described as comfortable, allowing guests to sample at each location and enjoy the atmosphere.

Some reviews mention that the tour can be long—up to 4 hours—which might be a bit much for some, especially if participating in all tastings. It’s advised to eat beforehand and drink responsibly to fully enjoy the experience.

Value for Money and Overall Ratings

With a rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 317 reviews, the Famous Moonshine & Wine Tour is clearly valued by participants. Many praise the variety of tastings, friendly guides, and interesting venues. The included tastings and small-group format contribute to its perceived value.

While some minor issues like difficulty locating the meeting point or long duration are mentioned, overall, the tour offers a well-rounded and enjoyable way to explore Tennessee’s beverages in a safe, guided setting.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour works best for adults interested in alcohol tasting, history, and local traditions. It’s particularly suited for bachelorette parties, adult getaways, or anyone curious about Tennessee’s moonshine and wine culture. Visitors who appreciate friendly guides, inside tastings, and local stories will find this experience especially rewarding.

While it’s not designed for mobility-challenged guests, those who enjoy social, relaxed, and educational experiences will likely find this tour a highlight of their trip to the Smoky Mountains area.

The Sum Up: A Flavorful Introduction to Tennessee Spirits

The Famous Moonshine & Wine Tour from Pigeon Forge offers a well-organized, enjoyable experience for exploring Tennessee’s spirits and wines. Its inclusive tastings, insider stories, and small-group setting make it a popular choice for visitors seeking a relaxed, informative, and fun way to sample local beverages.

While longer durations might be tiring for some, the variety of stops and quality of tastings make this tour a good value at $70. It’s ideal for adults who want to learn more about Tennessee’s moonshine and wine heritage without the hassle of driving.

If you’re ready for a spirited adventure that combines history, hospitality, and tastings, this tour promises a memorable day in Sevierville and Pigeon Forge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. Participants need to meet at the designated starting point at 220 Apple Valley Rd, Sevierville.

What is the minimum age to participate?
Participants must be 21 years or older and present a valid photo ID.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 to 5 hours, depending on the group and stops.

Are tastings inside the venues?
Yes, most tastings are conducted inside the venues, providing comfort regardless of weather.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the experience offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It is not recommended for guests with mobility challenges due to the nature of the stops and walking involved.