Famous Moonshine & Wine Tour From Pigeon Forge

Discover the Best of Tennessee’s Moonshine & Wine Scene

Our review of the Famous Moonshine & Wine Tour from Pigeon Forge offers a glimpse into a fun, flavorful way to experience Tennessee’s craft alcohol scene. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, numerous travelers praise its mix of history, tastings, and friendly guides. It’s an afternoon that balances education with indulgence, making it ideal for both casual tasters and dedicated enthusiasts.

What makes this tour standout? First, the small-group atmosphere ensures a more personalized experience and plenty of interaction with the guide. Second, you’ll visit multiple distilleries and wineries, giving you a genuine taste of local flavors. Third, the insider tips and complimentary tastings add real value, making each stop memorable. The only potential downside? The tour lasts around 3 to 5 hours, so if you’re not a fan of long afternoons, it might feel a bit ambitious.

This experience is perfect for those wanting a relaxed, informative day of tasting and exploring in Sevierville and Pigeon Forge. Whether you’re a wine lover, a fan of moonshine, or simply looking to learn about Tennessee’s alcohol heritage, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Small-group experience fosters intimacy and more personalized attention
• Multiple stops in Sevierville and Pigeon Forge for varied tastings
• Knowledgeable guides share interesting stories and local insights
• Complimentary tastings and gifts enhance the value of the visit
• Flexible duration between 3 and 5 hours suits different schedules
• No hotel pickup included, so plan accordingly

An In-Depth Look at the Moonshine & Wine Tour

The Basics: What to Expect

This tour is designed to give you a taste of Tennessee’s most popular alcohol spots, all within a half-day window. It begins with convenient pickup in Sevierville and takes you on a journey through a series of distilleries and wineries. On average, most travelers book about 26 days in advance, so if you’re interested, early reservations are advisable.

The tour runs from 12:00 pm, starting at 220 Apple Valley Rd, and lasts around 3 to 5 hours. It’s a mobile ticket, which simplifies the check-in process, and it caters to groups up to 15 people — ensuring a cozy, friendly vibe rather than a crowded bus.

Stops and What You’ll See

Apple Barn Winery

Your first stop is at Apple Barn Winery, where you’ll be introduced to Tennessee’s wine culture with tastings in a charming setting. While some reviews mention that the tasting experience at the Apple Co. wasn’t always available, the overall focus remains on quality wines produced locally.

Apple Barn Hard Cider Company

Next, cider lovers will appreciate this stop, where you can sample hard ciders crafted from apples. Expect about 30 minutes here to sip and enjoy the fresh flavors, and if you’re into cider, this will give you a real taste of local craftsmanship.

Hillside Winery

This venue is known for its scenic surroundings and a good selection of wines made from mountain grapes. The 30-minute tasting allows you to appreciate the subtle differences between each variety, with some reviewers noting that the wines here are delicious and worth the visit.

Tennessee Homemade Wines

Here, you’ll find some of the best wines in Tennessee, according to many participants. The tasting experience is often described as generous, and the wines tend to come from the mountains of East Tennessee, giving a distinct regional character.

Tennessee Shine Co.

This is the tour’s highlight for moonshine fans. Known for moonshine and wine, this stop is a “double” experience — tasting both spirits and wines in one go. Expect about an hour here, with multiple samples including traditional corn mash, rye, and sweeter flavors like strawberry shortcake. Reviewers frequently mention that Wild Bill’s moonshine made a notable impression, especially when served chilled.

Smith Creek Moonshine

The Nashville-based Smith Creek Moonshine offers another look into Tennessee’s spirited side. Known for southern hospitality and quality moonshine, this stop provides about 30 minutes of tastings and friendly chats.

Guides and Atmosphere

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, particularly mentioning “Pam,” who is described as friendly, entertaining, and full of local insights. She not only shares stories about moonshine’s history and its role during Prohibition but also offers tips on what drinks to try and other local attractions.

The small-group setting fosters a relaxed environment where everyone’s questions are welcomed. As one reviewer put it, “Pam was so wonderful driving us around. We loved her and her knowledge.” The guides often go beyond the basics, sharing fun facts that add context to each tasting.

The Value of Tastings and Gifts

Tastings at each venue are included in the price ($70 per person), which many find to be a good deal considering the variety and quality. Several reviewers mention that they left with liquid souvenirs—bottles purchased from the tour stops—making the experience even more worthwhile.

Plus, some stops offer complimentary tastings and even a free gift from the wineries, adding a thoughtful touch and increasing the perceived value of the tour.

Transportation and Logistics

Transportation is included, so you don’t need to worry about navigating or parking at each venue. The tour departs from a central location in Sevierville, and the guide handles all the driving, allowing you to relax and focus on tasting and chatting.

Note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan to meet at the designated starting point. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately — rain or shine — and be prepared to enjoy the experience regardless of weather, unless conditions are hazardous.

Duration and Group Size

Most travelers find the 4-hour estimate accurate, though some may extend to 5 hours if they linger at stops. The group size is capped at 15, which keeps the experience intimate and engaging. Reviewers who had the chance to visit with fewer people appreciated the more personalized service and tailored recommendations.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour is quite flexible. If you’re a wine connoisseur, you’ll love the variety of local wines and the chance to explore East Tennessee’s mountain vineyards. For moonshine enthusiasts, the stops at Tennessee Shine Co. and Smith Creek offer a genuine taste of Southern spirits. Even casual drinkers will appreciate the friendly atmosphere and the chance to learn more about Tennessee’s alcohol heritage.

It’s also perfect for special occasions: groups celebrating birthdays, bachelorette parties, or just a fun day out with friends. Many reviews mention how fun and entertaining the guide was, making the whole experience not just about the drinks but also about the stories and camaraderie.

The Bottom Line: Is This Tour Worth Your Time?

Certainly. At $70, the tour offers a solid mix of tastings, local history, and fun guides in a cozy group setting. You get to visit several different venues, each with its own unique character, which means you’ll leave with a well-rounded understanding of Tennessee’s alcohol scene.

This tour is best suited for adults over 21 who enjoy sampling a variety of spirits and wines in a relaxed environment. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a good story as much as a good drink, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and engage with local experts.

Travelers looking for a more personalized, educational experience that combines history, culture, and flavors will find this tour hits the mark. Keep in mind that it’s a longer afternoon, so pacing yourself and eating beforehand will help you enjoy all the tastings.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? No, the tour begins at a central meeting point in Sevierville, and hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

What is the minimum age for this tour? Participants must be 21 or older to partake in tastings.

How long does the tour last? Typically, the tour lasts between 3 to 5 hours, depending on group size and stops.

Are the tastings included in the price? Yes, all tastings at the stops are included, along with some free gifts from the wineries.

Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues? It’s not recommended for those with mobility challenges due to walking and standing at multiple venues.

What should I wear? Dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour operates in all conditions. Comfort is key since you’ll be on your feet moving between stops.

Will I get drunk? Since tastings are included and multiple stops are planned, you’ll likely sample quite a bit. Please drink responsibly, and note that you shouldn’t drink alcohol before the tour begins.

What are the main stops? Apple Barn Winery, Apple Barn Hard Cider Company, Hillside Winery, Tennessee Homemade Wines, Tennessee Shine Co., and Smith Creek Moonshine.

Is there a guide? Yes, a knowledgeable guide accompanies the group, sharing stories, history, and tips throughout the tour.

Final Thoughts

The Famous Moonshine & Wine Tour from Pigeon Forge offers a well-balanced mix of education, local culture, and delicious tastings in a friendly setting. With knowledgeable guides like Pam, you’ll gain insights into Tennessee’s storied alcohol history while enjoying some of the best local spirits and wines. It’s ideal for those seeking a laid-back, fun-filled afternoon with friends, or couples wanting to explore the area’s flavors.

While it’s not a quick splash-and-go, the experience’s depth and authenticity make it worth the time. If you’re ready to sip your way through Tennessee’s storied distilleries and vineyards, this tour provides a fantastic, memorable way to do it.

Who should book? Anyone over 21 interested in spirits and wines, fans of local storytelling, or those celebrating a special occasion in Tennessee. If you appreciate good value, friendly guides, and authentic experiences, you’ll find this tour a highlight of your trip.

To sum it up, this tour combines educational storytelling with excellent tastings, all within a cozy group setting. It’s a delightful way to spend an afternoon in Tennessee, making new favorites and memories along the way.