Pigeon Forge isn’t just about mountain views and country music — it’s also a surprisingly good spot for wine and spirits tours. While Tennessee is famous for its whiskey and moonshine, exploring these tastes without a designated driver can be tricky. That’s where carefully curated tours come in, offering a chance to sample regional favorites in a relaxed, guided setting.
The Wine Me, Shine Me, Dine Me tour stands out for its seamless experience and engaging narrative, while the Pigeon Forge: Moonshine and Wine Tour with Local Cuisine provides a cozy, local perspective.
Both give visitors a chance to enjoy Appalachian culture through drinks and regional cuisine, making each a memorable part of a Pigeon Forge visit.
For a well-rounded experience, it’s worth considering what you want most: a longer, more comprehensive tour with a variety of tastings and a luxury feel, or a shorter, more intimate look at local spirits combined with regional food. Both tours deliver quality and authenticity, but each appeals to different types of travelers.
1. Wine Me, Shine Me, Dine Me – Must do tour
At number 1, the Wine Me, Shine Me, Dine Me tour offers a full afternoon of tasting and cultural exploration for $74 per person. This tour is highly rated — a perfect 5.0/5 from 355 reviews — which speaks to its popularity and quality. It lasts about 3 hours 45 minutes, giving plenty of time for a relaxed experience without eating up your whole day.
This tour covers two distilleries where you’ll sample vodka, moonshine, and whiskey, with a special focus on Appalachian spirits. The stops are carefully chosen to avoid tourist traps, instead visiting local spots that the guides affectionately call “where we shop.” The guides, passionate about Appalachian culture, provide insights that make the tasting more meaningful.
An included lunch with Tennessee flavors is a highlight — no cardboard sandwiches here, just fresh, regional cuisine. Bottled water and an easy-to-find meeting spot make the day smooth from start to finish.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of spirits, regional charm, and personal touches. Guests often mention how Jenn’s local knowledge and friendly style elevate the experience. The tour also hits the right balance of drinking, learning, and sightseeing, leaving you free for dinner or other evening plans.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a comprehensive, well-reviewed experience that mixes spirits, food, and Appalachian stories without a long day.
2. Pigeon Forge: Moonshine and Wine Tour with Local Cuisine
This 3.5-hour tour is priced at $72 per person and offers an intimate look at Pigeon Forge’s local distilleries and wineries. Rated 5/5 from just 5 reviews, it’s a newer option but clearly a favorite for those who want a guided taste of the region’s spirits.
Highlights include sampling Appalachian moonshine and sweet muscadine wine, both regional specialties. The tour emphasizes learning about local culture and history, making it a more educational experience.
Guests indulge in locally-sourced lunch that highlights regional ingredients, giving a true taste of Tennessee. The tour includes exclusive tastings and discounts at select distilleries, which adds extra value.
What sets this experience apart is its focus on local flavor and stories. The guides, who are locals, share behind-the-scenes insights that you won’t find on generic tours. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate good storytelling along with their spirits, and those interested in discovering lesser-known wines and moonshine.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a more personalized, cultural experience with focus on Appalachian tradition. The small group size and local guides make it especially appealing.
How to Choose
Choosing between these tours depends on your priorities. If you want a more extensive, lively experience with a longer duration and a well-regarded guide, the Wine Me, Shine Me, Dine Me is ideal. It offers a mix of spirits, regional food, and fascinating stories, perfect for a full afternoon of tasting.
If you’re looking for a slightly shorter, more intimate experience with a focus on local culture and exclusive tastings, the Pigeon Forge: Moonshine and Wine Tour with Local Cuisine is a great pick. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to deepen their understanding of Appalachian spirits while enjoying regional cuisine.
For budget-conscious travelers, both tours are similarly priced, but the duration and focus can guide your choice. Book early during peak seasons, as these tours tend to fill quickly.
Final thoughts
Pigeon Forge offers surprisingly diverse options for exploring Tennessee wines and spirits. Whether you prefer a longer, lively tour like the “Must Do” experience or a more intimate, story-driven outing focused on local distilleries, both tours deliver authentic tastes of Appalachian culture.
For those who want a fun, social experience—perhaps to kick off a weekend—Wine Me, Shine Me, Dine Me tops the list. On the other hand, travelers seeking a more educational and personal look at Tennessee’s spirits will appreciate the Moonshine and Wine Tour with Local Cuisine.
Whatever your preference, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out. These tours are a fantastic way to add a flavorful chapter to your Pigeon Forge story, so choose what suits your taste and enjoy a true taste of Appalachia.