If you’re headed to Gatlinburg and have a taste for spirits and stories, this Wine and Moonshine Walking Tour offers a charming way to explore local distilling traditions. With a mix of behind-the-scenes access, VIP tastings, and scenic strolls, this 3.5-hour experience combines education with fun — and an opportunity to sample some of Tennessee’s finest homemade spirits.
What makes this tour standout are two things we really appreciate: first, the personalized VIP treatment at each stop, and second, the insightful guides who make the history and craft of moonshine and wine come alive. The only potential consideration? It involves walking about 0.7 miles at a moderate pace, so it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or very young children.
This experience is perfect for curious travelers who enjoy learning about local traditions, tasting authentic spirits, and walking through Gatlinburg’s scenic streets. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Tennessee enthusiast, this tour adds a flavorful layer to your trip.
Gatlinburg: Wine and Moonshine Walking Tour with Tastings
This experience made our article of The 15 Most Popular Tours & Things To Do In Gatlinburg.
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Key Points
- Authentic Experience: Visit local distilleries and winery for real behind-the-scenes looks and tastings.
- VIP Treatment: Enjoy special attention and custom tastings designed for the tour group.
- Educational Insight: Learn about the history and production of Appalachian wine and moonshine.
- Scenic Walks: Walk through Gatlinburg’s charming streets, soaking in the atmosphere.
- Tastings & Cocktails: Sample a variety of spirits and end with a homemade cocktail crafted on-site.
- Value for Money: At $54, the tour offers a comprehensive, guided experience with a good mix of education and tasting.
If you’re seeking a more intimate and educational experience than just visiting bars or shops, this walking tour promises a well-rounded look at the region’s storied alcohol traditions. The journey begins at a covered pavilion right outside downtown, setting a relaxed tone for the afternoon. Here, the guide provides a brief overview of Appalachian wine and moonshine history, framing what’s to come.
You can also read our reviews of more walking tours in Gatlinburg
Start with a Working Distillery
Your first stop is a working distillery, where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the distillation process. This isn’t just a tasting stop; it’s a chance to see the equipment, ask questions, and understand what makes Tennessee moonshine and spirits special. The guide arranges a custom tasting lineup, often designed specifically for the group, which may include a variety of moonshines and spirits. As one reviewer noted, “Loved a lot of the different moonshines and wines we tasted,” highlighting the diversity of flavors you’ll encounter.
Scenic and Tasty Walk to the Winery
Next, you’ll take a short, scenic walk to a local winery renowned for its sweet wines. Here, the VIP treatment continues—expect a dedicated tasting experience with the chance to sample some of Tennessee’s best wines. The relaxed pace and beautiful surroundings make this stop not just educational but also enjoyable for the senses. As one guest shared, “Our guide was lovely, and the locations we stopped at had variety and were fun.”
Final Stop with Homemade Cocktail
The last leg of your journey takes you to another distillery, where you’ll enjoy a homemade cocktail crafted from spirits produced on-site. If lucky, you might even get a back-of-house tour from the distiller, gaining extra insight into the process. If not, the guides are happy to answer questions and share stories about moonshine-making. This final stop often leaves guests feeling more connected to the craft than ever before.
More Great Tours NearbyAuthentic & Educational
Throughout the tour, stories about the history of moonshine in Appalachia are woven into the experience, giving you context that elevates simple tastings into meaningful moments. Guests have raved about their guides’ knowledge—“She was patience and understanding”—which helps make the experience accessible and friendly.
Practical Details & Value
The tour costs $54 per person, which we find to be excellent value considering the personalized VIP tastings, behind-the-scenes access, and the scenic walk. The duration of 3.5 hours fits nicely into an evening outing, allowing flexibility for the rest of your Gatlinburg plans. Keep in mind, the experience involves walking around 0.7 miles, so comfortable shoes and moderate pace are recommended.
While the tour offers a well-curated experience, it does have some limitations. For example, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those under 21, which is standard for alcohol-related tours. Also, because the focus is on spirits and history, it’s not a full winery or distillery tour covering extensive production details but rather a tasting and story-focused experience.
Transport isn’t provided, so you’d need to arrive at the meeting point — a covered pavilion just outside the downtown parking garage. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive than some might assume.
What truly sets this tour apart, based on reviews, is the knowledgeable guides and good value. Guests repeatedly mention the warmth and patience of their guides, making the experience feel personal rather than commercial. One reviewer noted, “Our guide was lovely, and the locations we stopped at were fun and had variety,” which suggests a flexible, friendly approach.
The tastings themselves are well thought out, offering a range of flavors, from traditional moonshines to sweet wines. The inclusion of a homemade cocktail at the end adds a fun, memorable touch, wrapping up the experience on a high note.
This experience is ideal for adventurous, curious travelers who enjoy a blend of history, culture, and spirits. It’s perfect for those who appreciate small-group, personalized tours that go beyond just tasting to include storytelling and behind-the-scenes views. If you enjoy scenic walks and local flavor, this tour offers a charming way to deepen your Gatlinburg visit.
However, if you have mobility issues or prefer a more leisurely, less active outing, you might need to consider other options. Likewise, those seeking a broad winery or distillery tour might find this more focused and intimate.
In many ways, this Gatlinburg Wine and Moonshine Walking Tour hits the sweet spot for an engaging, affordable, and authentic experience. At $54, you’re paying for guided insight, tastings, and a chance to see spirits being crafted — all within a scenic, walkable setting. The positive reviews and high ratings from past guests underscore the value and fun of this outing.
It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy learning about local traditions, savoring unique flavors, and walking in a relaxed atmosphere. The personal attention from guides and the variety of stops make this a memorable addition to your Gatlinburg itinerary.
If you’re into spirits, storytelling, and a touch of Appalachian history, this tour offers a genuine, flavorful glimpse into Tennessee’s famed moonshine and wine-making legacy. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring your curiosity.
Is there a specific dress code for this tour?
No formal dress code is required, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended since the tour involves about 0.7 miles of walking.
How long does each stop last?
While the exact timing varies, the entire tour lasts about 3.5 hours, with multiple stops for tastings, so expect roughly 30-45 minutes per location.
Are the tastings included in the price?
Yes, the $54 fee covers guided tastings at distilleries and a VIP winery experience, plus a homemade cocktail at the end.
Is transportation provided between stops?
No, the tour involves walking between locations, starting at the covered pavilion outside downtown Gatlinburg.
Can children or teenagers join this tour?
No, this tour is not suitable for those under 21 or pregnant women due to alcohol consumption.
Is the tour accessible for people in wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing more travelers to enjoy the experience.
What’s the best time to take this tour?
It’s usually available in the evening, making it a great option to unwind after daytime sightseeing.
In summary, this Gatlinburg Wine and Moonshine Walking Tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, tastings, and scenic strolling, all guided by knowledgeable hosts who add warmth and personality to the experience. Whether you’re a spirits enthusiast or just curious about Appalachian customs, it’s a delightful way to spend an afternoon in Gatlinburg.
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