Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour

Exploring the rich moonshine and wine culture of Gatlinburg is a captivating experience that’s best enjoyed through the Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour. Over the course of three hours, we’ll dive into the fascinating history of local spirits, sampling bold cocktails and smooth varieties as our enthusiastic guides lead us through this immersive journey. With a small group size, this tour promises an intimate and memorable way to appreciate the Appalachian traditions that have shaped the region.

This experience made our article of 2 Best Wine Tours In Gatlinburg.

Key Points

1. Highly-rated Gatlinburg tour exploring the rich history and culture of moonshine and wine, with a 99% recommendation from travelers.
2. Small group sizes up to 12 participants, allowing for personalized attention and engaging interactions with knowledgeable guides.
3. Immersive tasting experience featuring bold moonshine cocktails, smooth oak-aged varieties, and refreshing moonshine lemonade.
4. Captivating storytelling and historical insights that bring the local legends and bootlegging past to life.
5. Accessible tour with moderate walking distance, wheelchair accommodation, and nearby public transportation options.

Tour Overview

The Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour is a guided experience that allows visitors to explore the rich moonshine and wine culture of Gatlinburg, USA.

Located in the heart of Tennessee, this highly-rated tour offers 423 reviews and a 99% recommendation from travelers.

At $51 per person, the tour provides small group sizes of up to 12 participants, ensuring personal attention from the knowledgeable guide.

Guests will sample moonshine cocktails and wine tastings while learning about the history and production of these local spirits.

The 3-hour tour covers moderate walking of 0.7 miles.

Exploring Moonshine and Wine Culture

What makes moonshine and wine culture so captivating in Gatlinburg? It’s a unique blend of tradition, innovation, and community.

On the tour, we explore the history of moonshiners, learning how they skirted Prohibition laws and perfected their craft. We sample smooth, potent moonshine cocktails, marveling at the skill behind each recipe.

But it’s not just about the alcohol – it’s about the storytelling. Our guide weaves tales of colorful characters and local legends, bringing the region’s bootlegging past to life.

And between stops, we chat with fellow travelers, sharing our appreciation for this distinctive Appalachian culture.

Tasting Experience and Highlights

Stepping into the first distillery, we’re greeted by the warm aroma of aging barrels and the welcoming smiles of the staff.

As we settle in, the guide provides an engaging overview of moonshine’s history and culture. We then embark on a tasting journey, sampling:

• Bold and smooth moonshine cocktails
• Classic whiskey sours with a moonshine twist
• Smooth, oak-aged moonshine varieties
• Refreshing moonshine lemonade
• Sweet, fruit-infused moonshines

The bartenders expertly guide us through each pour, sharing insights and anecdotes that enrich the experience.

We leave with a deeper appreciation for the art of distilling and the unique character of Appalachian moonshine.

Knowledgeable Guides and Small Group Dynamics

As we join the small group of fellow adventurers, we’re immediately struck by the guide’s infectious enthusiasm and deep knowledge of the local moonshine scene.

They expertly lead us through the streets, sharing captivating stories and historical tidbits that bring the region’s moonshine culture to life.

The intimate group size allows for personalized attention and ample opportunities to ask questions, ensuring we gain a genuine understanding of the craft.

Our guide’s engaging personality and passion for the subject matter elevate the experience, making it an immersive and memorable journey through Gatlinburg’s vibrant spirits scene.

Logistical Details and Accessibility

The tour conveniently begins at the designated meeting point, 520 Parkway in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, though the exact location may vary depending on weather conditions or time of day.

Once the tour concludes, participants return to the original starting point.

The experience is accessible, as it accommodates wheelchair users and service animals. Public transportation is available nearby, making it easy for travelers to reach the tour.

The moderate walking distance of 0.7 miles ensures an enjoyable yet manageable experience for most.

Whether you prefer a personal vehicle or public transport, this tour offers a convenient and accessible option.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• 0.7 miles of moderate walking
• Returns to original meeting point

What’s Included and Pricing

The tour includes all alcoholic beverages, with samples of moonshine cocktails and tastings at each location.

We’ll learn about moonshine culture and history from the knowledgeable guide. The small group size ensures personal attention and interaction.

At $51 per person, the price may seem high, but the generous tastings and entertaining experience make it worthwhile. Tips and gratuities aren’t included, so remember to budget for that.

You’ll receive an email confirmation with tour details the day before, so you can plan accordingly.

Traveler Feedback and Recommendations

According to traveler reviews, the Wine and Shine Walking Tour in Gatlinburg has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback. Reviewers highlight the fun and engaging atmosphere, knowledgeable guides, and generous tastings.

Some common themes include:

• Enjoyable experience overall
• Bartenders passionate about their craft
• Recommendations to eat before the tour
• Limited stops (only two distilleries) for some
• Perceived high cost for the tour

While a few guests expressed disappointment, the majority of reviewers enthusiastically recommend this tour for an immersive moonshine and wine tasting experience in Gatlinburg.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes the Wine and Shine Walking Tour in Gatlinburg stand out is its immersive and authentic experience.

The small group size allows for personalized attention from the knowledgeable guide, who shares the rich history and culture of moonshine. Visitors savor moonshine cocktails and tastings at each stop, getting a true taste of the local spirit.

The tour also includes wine tastings, providing a well-rounded exploration of the region’s beverages.

With glowing reviews and a high recommendation rate, this tour offers an engaging and memorable way to discover Gatlinburg’s vibrant moonshine and wine scene.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snacks on the Tour?

We generally recommend enjoying the provided food and drink samples during the tour. While you’re welcome to bring small snacks, the tour experience is designed to showcase the local moonshine and wine offerings. We suggest focusing on the tasty samples included in the tour.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no strict dress code for the tour, but we recommend wearing comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes. The tour involves moderate walking, so you’ll want to dress for ease of movement.

Can I Purchase Additional Alcoholic Beverages During the Tour?

Yes, you can purchase additional alcoholic beverages during the tour. The tour includes tastings and a cocktail, but you’re free to buy more drinks at your own expense as you explore the distilleries and wineries.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?

The tour has a minimum age requirement of 21 years old. This is standard for any tour involving the sampling of alcoholic beverages. All participants must provide valid government-issued identification upon check-in.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tasting Experiences?

Photography is generally allowed during the tasting experiences, though we’d recommend checking with your guide beforehand. Some distilleries may have restrictions, so it’s best to be mindful of the rules at each stop.

The Sum Up

The Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour in Gatlinburg offers a unique and immersive experience that allows visitors to explore the region’s rich moonshine and wine culture. With engaging storytelling, personal interaction, and the opportunity to sample a variety of local spirits, this tour provides a memorable way to appreciate Appalachian traditions. Whether you’re a connoisseur or simply curious, this tour is a must-try for anyone visiting Gatlinburg.