If you’re a whiskey lover heading to the Smoky Mountains, you’re in luck — Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and the surrounding areas offer some of the best whiskey (and moonshine!) tasting experiences in the country. Whether you prefer smooth bourbons, small-batch whiskey, or Tennessee moonshine, there’s a tasting room waiting for you.
Here’s a roundup of the top-rated whiskey tasting experiences in the Smoky Mountains:
1. Ole Smoky Whiskey Distillery – Gatlinburg
⭐ Rating: 4.6/5 (Google Reviews)
Known for their iconic moonshine, Ole Smoky also crafts incredible small-batch whiskey. Their Barrelhouse in Gatlinburg offers $5 tastings featuring flavors like Mango Habanero, Salty Caramel, and Tennessee Straight Whiskey. Plus, you can shop exclusive bottles you won’t find anywhere else!
Must-Try: Salty Caramel Whiskey
2. Sugarlands Distilling Company – Gatlinburg
⭐ Rating: 4.7/5 (Google Reviews)
While famous for their moonshine, Sugarlands also produces award-winning whiskey. Their “Roaming Man” straight rye whiskey is a limited-edition bottle that consistently sells out. The tasting experience is fun, lively, and very educational about Appalachian distilling traditions.
Must-Try: Roaming Man Tennessee Straight Rye Whiskey (when available)
3. Tennessee Shine Company – Pigeon Forge
⭐ Rating: 4.6/5 (Google Reviews)
Tennessee Shine Company offers free tastings of their moonshine and whiskey selections. Their whiskey lineup features classic Tennessee whiskey alongside creative flavors like Peanut Butter Cup Whiskey. Friendly staff and a casual atmosphere make this a must-visit stop.
Must-Try: Peanut Butter Cup Whiskey
4. Old Forge Distillery – Pigeon Forge
⭐ Rating: 4.7/5 (Google Reviews)
Located near The Old Mill, Old Forge Distillery is known for hand-crafted small-batch whiskey using old family recipes. Their bourbon whiskey is aged to perfection, and the distillery itself is beautiful — making for a great tasting and shopping experience.
Must-Try: 1830 Original Whiskey
5. Company Distilling – Townsend
⭐ Rating: 4.9/5 (Google Reviews)
For a refined, smooth whiskey tasting experience, make the short drive to Company Distilling in Townsend. Founded by the former master distiller of Jack Daniel’s, their lineup includes premium Tennessee whiskey and bourbon crafted with care and attention to detail.
Must-Try: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Tips for Enjoying Whiskey Tastings in the Smokies
- Bring your ID (tastings are 21+)
- Drink responsibly and consider booking a shuttle tour
- Take a few bottles home — many offer exclusive flavors not sold in stores
Relax After Your Tasting in a Cozy Cabin
After a day of whiskey tasting in the Smokies, there’s no better place to relax than our Cabins!
Our private cabins are perfectly located near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, offering stunning mountain views, cozy amenities, and easy access to the area’s top attractions.
👉 Book your stay today and sip, savor, and unwind in the heart of the Smoky Mountains!
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