You may have heard that Gatlinburg is the place to go if you want to try moonshine. There are several moonshine distilleries in the Smokies, but Gatlinburg is the most popular city in the area. With numerous different distilleries that provide a tasting experience, you can try all kinds of ‘shine to figure out which flavors are your favorite. But what is it really like going moonshine tasting in Gatlinburg? Keep reading to find out!
What Can I Expect?
You probably are wondering what the actual tasting experience will be like. Every distillery does things a little differently, but the process is pretty much the same.
Once you pay for moonshine tasting in Gatlinburg, you’ll step up to a tasting counter. Depending on how busy it is, you could have a full counter or just a few people.
A bartender will lead the tasting, giving out information on the different flavors and how they’re made. Each person leading the tasting has a unique approach, but most of them crack jokes and make the experience as fun as possible.
After you’re done with the tasting, you can browse around the shop and pick up some moonshine or other merch to take home!
How Much Does it Cost?
The first thing you need to know about visiting the distilleries is it does cost $5 to do the tastings in Gatlinburg.
In 2016, the city of Gatlinburg requested that the distilleries charge a $5 tasting fee to “maintain Gatlinburg as a family friendly vacation destination.”
While you do have to pay to sample moonshine, every distiller will allow the tasting fee to go towards a purchase in their gift shops.
How Many Flavors Do You Get to Try?
Each distillery serves a different number of shots, but you’ll typically taste somewhere between 10 and 13 flavors of moonshine. As you’re tasting, you’ll get recommendations on the best way to use the moonshine flavor back at home.
Where Can I Go Moonshine Tasting in Gatlinburg?
You have multiple options for moonshine tasting in the Smoky Mountains. Each distillery has its own way of making ‘shine, and you might even want to visit all of them while you’re in town! Here are a handful of our favorites:
Ole Smoky
A popular distillery for moonshine tasting in Gatlinburg is Ole Smoky. This specific store is known as “The Holler,” and it’s their flagship store. Everyone who does tastings here has a blast, and you could even enjoy live music right outside the door!
Some of the most popular moonshines from Ole Smoky include Apple Pie, White Lightnin', and Blackberry.
Sugarlands Distilling Company
Sugarlands Distilling Company is another popular place to go moonshine tasting in Gatlinburg. They serve their latest and most popular flavors, and you can even tour their distillery if you want.
Your tasting experience is led by an expert “TasteMaker,” who will give you cocktail ideas and make sure everyone in your party has a blast!
Flavors you might get to try at Sugarlands include Maple Bacon, Butterscotch Gold, and Mark Rogers' American Peach.
Tennessee Shine Company
The newest distillery to come to Gatlinburg is Tennessee Shine Company. This is a locally owned and operated chain you’ll find all over the Smoky Mountains.
Of course, you will want to try some of the unique choices like Jalapeno Cornbread, Blue Houdini, and even the Lemon Cream and Pumpkin Spice Moon Pie flavors!
Where to Stay When Moonshine Tasting in Gatlinburg
Still looking for the perfect place to stay when you visit town? Our Gatlinburg cabin rentals have everything you need to ensure you have a memorable experience, and many are located just a short distance from these distilleries! With amenities like hot tubs, game rooms, and mountain views, you'll have a comfortable and entertaining place to stay.
Now you know more of what to expect when you try moonshine tasting in Gatlinburg. Everyone who is over 21 will love the experience, and you won’t want to miss out on any of the distilleries! When you stay with us, you'll receive our Luxury Pass, which gives you free and discounted tickets to some of the very best attractions in the Smoky Mountains!
