The Smoky Mountains are world famous for their moonshine! Moonshine is unaged corn whiskey that was traditionally made by the light of the moon. It was originally distilled at night in order to avoid attention from the authorities. In 2009, a change in state law brought moonshine out of the shadows and allowed a number of distilleries to open in East Tennessee. Now, you can taste the best moonshine in Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountains when you visit. Here are 7 distilleries in Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountains:
1. Ole Smoky Moonshine
Ole Smoky Moonshine manages some of the best distilleries in Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountains. For the best moonshine in Pigeon Forge, head to The Island, where you will find the Ole Smoky Barn. One of the most popular distilleries in Gatlinburg TN is the Ole Smoky Moonshine Holler. You can actually tour the facility in Gatlinburg to see how this popular beverage is made. Plus, you can sample some of their moonshine!
Tasting Notes: Samples at the Ole Smoky locations cost $5 per person. However, participants receive a $5 coupon that can be applied to any purchase made in the distillery’s gift shop. Popular flavors include Apple Pie, Butter Pecan, and Blue Flame.
2. Junction 35 Spirits
For one of the most unique distilleries in Pigeon Forge, head to Junction 35 Spirits! This spot stands out because it not only has a distillery, but it also has a delicious restaurant. Enjoy a meal off their All-American menu with burgers, BBQ plates, and wings, then do a tasting of all their flavorful spirits! Junction 35 Spirits offers a variety of spirits, including bourbon, rye whiskey, moonshine, vodka, gin, tequila, and rum. Some of their most famous flavors are their Apple Pie Moonshine, Bam Bam Vodka, and Raspberry Whiskey. We recommend stopping by the bar after to enjoy a specialty cocktail made with their spirits. Junction 35 Spirits is located in the Mountain Mile in Pigeon Forge and at Tanger Outlets in Sevierville!
Tasting Notes: Samples at Junction 35 Spirits are $5. However, if you choose to dine at their restaurant the tasting is free with proof of a receipt!
3. Old Forge Distillery
Old Forge Distillery has deep ties to Pigeon Forge’s past. Located next to The Old Mill, this distillery draws inspiration from the iron forge that once stood on the banks of the Little Pigeon River. The grist mill on the property grinds all of the grain for its whiskey. In fact, the distillery’s signature product, 1830 Original Unaged Corn Moonshine, references the year that the historic grist mill was constructed. In addition to its award-winning moonshine in Pigeon Forge, the distillery also offers bourbon, rum, vodka, cream liqueur, and even more spirits.
Tasting Notes: Samples are free at the Old Forge Distillery! Popular moonshine flavors include Oatmeal Cookie, French Toast, and Vanilla Bean.
4. Sugarlands Distilling Co.
Visiting Sugarlands Distilling Co. is always a blast! This great distillery in Gatlinburg TN frequently hosts free live music from talented local bands and touring acts. Of course, the moonshine itself is the main attraction. This is one of the most popular places for moonshine tasting in Gatlinburg TN. Sugarlands partners with the stars of the Discovery Channel’s Moonshiners Legends to bring their time-tested recipes to the masses. Visitors to the distillery will have the chance to sign up for a variety of special hands-on tours and workshops.
Tasting Notes: Like the rest of the distilleries in Gatlinburg, Sugarlands charges $5 for tastings and gives out $5 coupons in return. Standout flavors include Blueberry Muffin, Maple Bacon, and Apple Pie.
5. Tennessee Shine Company
Tennessee Shine Company brought 4 distillery locations to the Smoky Mountains! With distilleries in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Wears Valley, you’re never far from a Tennessee Shine location! This company offers a one-of-a-kind moonshine museum tour at its Sevierville location, but you can go moonshine tasting in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and the other locations. Enjoy everything from Moon Pie flavors like Strawberry Cream and Mint Chocolate Cream, to signature Tennessee Shine flavors like Dream Cream and Big Orange Dreamsicle.
Tasting Notes: Moonshine tastings at Tennessee Shine Company are free. Their signature flavors include Moon Pie Banana Cream, Moon Pie Coconut Cream, and Pina Colada.
6. Tennessee Legend Distillery
Tennessee Legend Distillery may not be flashy, but it has some of the best quality spirits in the Smokies. This place for moonshine tasting is family owned and operated, focusing on a small-town feel. Guests will have the chance to sample a wonderful selection of moonshine, traditional whiskey, cream liqueur, and vodka.
Tasting Notes: Tennessee Legend Distillery offers free tastings! Popular flavors include Salted Caramel, Orange Creamsicle, and Peanut Butter Cup.
7. Old Tennessee Distilling Co.
Formly known as Thunder Road Distillery, Old Tennessee Distilling Co. is another place for moonshine tastings you won’t want to skip. The distillery has built a loyal following for its moonshine, whiskey, rum, rye, gin, vodka, and alcohol-infused fruits.
Tasting Notes: Samples are free at Old Tennessee Distilling Co.! Some of our favorite varieties include Watermelon, Blackberry, and Mango.
Want to try other alcohol tastings? Check out the top wineries in Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains!
Where to Stay Near Distilleries in Pigeon Forge
When you stay with us, you will be near all of these awesome distilleries in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg TN. With everything from 1 bedroom cabins to 15 bedroom lodges, we are sure to have the perfect property for your escape. After sampling all the delicious moonshine in Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountains, you’ll love having a short trip back to your cabin. To start planning your getaway, browse our selection of cabins in Pigeon Forge!
