When you think of Gatlinburg, you may have a few things that come to mind, like the Gatlinburg SkyLift, the Space Needle, and maybe moonshine tasting! You can probably find alcohol tastings in any vacation spot, but the mountains are a fun place to try moonshine! If you want to learn all about the distilleries, what the experiences are like, and more, keep reading to learn about moonshine tasting in Gatlinburg.
Moonshine Tastings in Gatlinburg
Although there are several distilleries in Gatlinburg, each one has a similar tasting experience. If you are over 21 years old, you can walk into the distillery of your choice and let them know that you want to do a moonshine tasting. It is important to note that a few years ago, the city of Gatlinburg passed a policy stating that patrons must pay a $5 tasting fee for moonshine. All of the distilleries uphold this policy, and every distillery has the fee go towards a purchase in their shop.
The leader of the tasting will set guests up with their tasting glasses and share information about the flavors, how the moonshine is made, quirks about the company, and more. No matter which distillery you visit, you’ll have a blast with an entertaining tasting leader.
Each distillery has signature flavors, and you’ll be able to taste somewhere between 10 and 13 flavors. After the tasting, you can stick around to ask more questions about what you’ve tasted or recommendations for what to purchase.
Top Distilleries in Gatlinburg
Since you know what to expect when you go moonshine tasting in Gatlinburg, you should learn about where you can go! Here are the top distilleries in Gatlinburg:
Ole Smoky
One of the most popular distilleries is Ole Smoky Moonshine. Fondly referred to as “The Holler,” this location of Ole Smoky is known as the place to be if you want to enjoy moonshine and live entertainment! There’s an outdoor stage where performances take place periodically.
They’re also known for their moonshine cherries, White Lightnin’ flavor, Apple Pie flavor, and moonshine pickles.
Sugarlands Distilling Co.
Another Gatlinburg moonshine distillery you’ll want to check out while you’re in town is Sugarlands Distilling Co. They have a pretty unique spread of flavors, including Maple Bacon and Peanut Butter and Jelly. You’ll also be able to order cocktails made with their spirits and take a tour of the facility.
Tennessee Shine Co.
The third distillery in Gatlinburg is Tennessee Shine Co. Their signature moonshine is Moonpie flavored, and you will definitely want to stop by and try them all! You’ll also find creamy moonshine, like Big Orange Dreamscile and Nanner Pudding. They also serve whiskey and wine in a variety of flavors.
You’ll have a blast moonshine tasting in Gatlinburg! All of these distilleries are similar, but you’ll get a completely unique experience at each one, and you may just go home with a ton of delicious drinks! If you’re wondering what else you should add to your vacation bucket list, check out these other fun things to do in Gatlinburg for more ideas!