Explore the Tennessee Whiskey Trail in the Smokies

Travel into the heart of the American South, and stumble upon an intoxicating journey: the Tennessee Whiskey Trail. This trail blends history, culture, and the sumptuous flavor of renowned spirits. It is a must for any whiskey enthusiast seeking a deeper connection with this iconic drink!

What Is the Tennessee Whiskey Trail?

The Tennessee Whiskey Trail is a self-guided journey that showcases the best whiskey distilleries in Tennessee. It is an ambitious effort, organized by the Tennessee Distillers Guild, to promote the state’s booming craft whiskey industry and highlight its cultural heritage. From iconic establishments brewing spirits for centuries to exciting new distilleries pushing boundaries and exploring new flavors, the Tennessee Whiskey Trail offers a fascinating tour through Tennessee’s whiskey scene.

How Long Is the Tennessee Whiskey Trail?

Spanning across the state, the Tennessee Whiskey Trail is an extensive path that can be tailored to your preferred travel pace. It covers over 800 miles and traverses the scenic landscapes of East, Middle, and West Tennessee. It is possible to make stops at several distilleries in one day. However, spreading the journey out over a week or month allows you to immerse yourself in each story and sample. 

How Many Distilleries Are On the Tennessee Whiskey Trail?

The Tennessee Whiskey Trail currently boasts at least 25 distilleries. Each proposes its own particular take on the art of spirit-making. From household names to boutique producers, these distilleries are breaking the mold.

Tennessee Whiskey Trail Distilleries in the Smokies

The distilleries in the beautiful Smoky Mountains are among the most compelling on the Tennessee Whiskey Trail. These whiskey distilleries in Tennessee offer the perfect blend of tradition, innovation, and mesmerizing mountain views. There are a lot of note-worthy distilleries along the trail. However, for the purpose of this article, we’ll spotlight just a few nestled in Eastern Tennessee.

Junction 35 Spirits

Junction 35 Spirits is a testament to the ingenuity of Tennessee’s whiskey crafters. With its roots tied deeply to the railroading history of the Smokies, Junction 35 Spirits serves up smooth, classic spirits that reflect the heart of Tennessee. This Pigeon Forge distillery also concocts bourbon, vodka, gin, and rum. Visit their tasting counter any day of the week to savor exotic flavors such as Honey Whiskey, Sweet Tea Moonshine, or Black Cherry Whiskey.

Old Forge Distillery

Steeped in tradition, the Old Forge Distillery is housed in a century-old building and offers hand-forged spirits. Each bottle here tells a story of the land, infused with local ingredients and crafted with love. Drawing its stone-ground grain from the Old Mill and crystal-clear water from the mountain rivers, Old Forge Distillery captures the essence of the Smoky Mountains with its assortment of spirits. Their diverse range includes moonshines, moonshine cherries, cream liqueurs, whiskies, bourbons, rums, gins, and vodkas. Each infused with a touch of local character. Begin your journey with one of the four “1830 Original” moonshines. Venture further to explore unique flavors such as Bananas Foster, Cola, and French Toast.

Ole Smoky Distillery

As one of the most celebrated whiskey distilleries in Tennessee, Ole Smoky Distillery is an essential stop. With over a dozen moonshine flavors and a lively atmosphere, it’s a vibrant and unforgettable experience. Its three convenient locations, dotted across Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, invites connoisseurs and novices to discover a unique selection. Sample whiskey flavors like Root Beer, Cookie Dough, and Mango Habanero. As the first legal moonshine distillery in Tennessee, a visit to the Ole Smoky Moonshine & Whiskey Distillery is an absolute must!

Sugarlands Distilling Co.

Sugarlands Distilling Co. blends traditional and modern distilling methods to create award-winning spirits. Open all year round, their charming barn-house venue provides a lively atmosphere for an evening of entertainment and spirit tastings. After enjoying a distillery tour, partake in a tasting session of their award-winning Roaming Man Tennessee Straight Rye Whiskey. Get insights on this award-winning whiskey as experts walk you through the tasting and nosing. At $11 per pour, the best value is the $22 three-shot flight.

Tennessee Legend Distillery

Located a hop, skip, and a jump away in Sevierville, the family-owned Tennessee Legend Distillery pays homage to the rich folklore and legends of the Smoky Mountains. Their artisanal spirits, moonshine, whiskey, bourbon, vodka, rum, and cream liqueur offer flavors that you won’t find anywhere else. Indulge in their Canebrake Bourbon Whiskey or opt for a tantalizing Crème Brûlée Cream Liqueur or Smoked Apple Whiskey bottle. The signature spirits of Tennessee Legend Distillery provide the perfect pairing for an evening around a campfire.

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The Tennessee Whiskey Trail is more than just a journey through the Smoky Mountains. It’s an odyssey of tastes and traditions that awaken the senses and captivate the spirit. From the deep roots of Pigeon Forge‘s Old Forge Distillery, to the inventive spirits of Junction 35 Spirits, each distillery has a unique story to tell.  

Embark on a taste adventure with the Sugarlands Distilling Company in Gatlinburg. Flavors like Maple Bacon Moonshine and Roaming Man Rye Whiskey reign supreme. Or, embrace the historical legacy of Ole Smoky Moonshine & Whiskey Distillery with a century-old recipe that continues to create magic in a bottle.

At Tennessee Legend Distillery in Sevierville, the folklore of the Smokies springs to life through uncommon spirits such as the smooth Canebrake Bourbon Whiskey or the irresistible Crème Brûlée Cream Liqueur.

The Tennessee Whiskey Trail invites you into the heart of whiskey distilleries in Tennessee. Savor the flavors, soak in the heritage, and be a part of the vibrant whiskey culture of the Smoky Mountains. As you explore this culturally authentic trail, remember that every sip is a toast to Tennessee whiskey’s rich history and future.

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