Moonshining has been a time-honored tradition in the Great Smoky Mountains as generations have enjoyed the south’s famous distilled spirits. While originally a slang term, moonshine has become a popular commercial product and now visitors to Gatlinburg can witness the tradition of moonshining at one of the many exciting Gatlinburg moonshine distilleries! Here are the top 3 distilleries in town where you can enjoy a Gatlinburg moonshine tour:
1. Sugarlands Distilling Company
The Sugarlands Distilling Company opened the doors to its downtown Gatlinburg distillery in March of 2014 to perform the traditional craft of distilling fine Sugarlands Spirits. While visiting their barn house location, you can enjoy several moonshine tours and workshops. The Blended Cocktails Tour is a 30 minute private tour of the house where you can see first hand how Sugarlands Shine is made. You will also get the opportunity to enjoy two handcrafted cocktails that are made by the distillery’s expert TasteMakers! The Meet the Distiller Workshop offers the Blended Cocktails Tour plus the chance to experience a hands-on distilling experience and take home your very own bottle of moonshine!
2. Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery
For another great Gatlinburg moonshine tour, head over to the Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery! When visiting this true moonshine experience, you’ll notice the distinct smell of cooking and fermenting grains as soon as you approach the entrance! Once inside, view the entire process from beginning to end with the authentic working moonshine stills. The distillers love to visit with folks and will be delighted to answer your questions about the history and folklore of moonshining in East Tennessee. After completing your self guided tour of the process, treat yourself to $5.00 sampings of this tasty homegrown moonshine! Samples include their Original Unaged Corn Whiskey, world famous “Apple Pie”, Moonshine Cherries and more!
3. Doc Collier Moonshine Distillery
Stop by and try the finest moonshine in Gatlinburg at the Doc Collier Moonshine Distillery! While at the distillery, take a tour to view the moonshine equipment that William “Doc” Collier and his family have used for generations to produce their moonshine up in the mountains. You can also take the opportunity to sample Doc’s fine flavors, including their unique Moonshine Brandy! Doc’s Shine Shop is set up like an old fashioned country store, so take some time to browse the gift shop and pick up something to remember your Gatlinburg moonshine experience!
Where to Stay
Make the most of your visit to these Gatlinburg distilleries with a stay at Alpine Chalet Rentals! We have everything from 1 bedroom cabins for a romantic getaway to large cabins for group rentals. Our beautiful cabins are situated among the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains but are just minutes from the distilleries, attractions, shops and restaurants of downtown Gatlinburg. While staying with us, enjoy fantastic amenities such as fully equipped kitchens, hot tubs, fireplaces, game rooms and more!
Check out all of our cabins in the Smoky Mountains today to stay near these top distilleries for a Gatlinburg moonshine tour! We look forward to seeing you soon at Alpine Chalet Rentals!
