Nestled just outside of downtown Nashville lies the Uncle Nearest Green Distillery, a captivating destination that offers a glimpse into the rich history of whiskey-making. This 5-hour tour, priced at $119 per person, promises an immersive experience that highlights the pivotal role of Nearest Green and his lasting legacy within the industry. With a 90-minute guided tour, tastings of award-winning whiskeys, and the opportunity to explore limited-edition releases, this journey through the distillery grounds promises to enlighten and entertain even the most discerning whiskey enthusiast. But the real question is, what secrets does this distillery hold?
Key Points
- The Uncle Nearest Green Distillery Tour is a 5-hour guided experience departing from Downtown Nashville at 1:30 PM.
- Participants will arrive at the distillery at 2:30 PM for a 90-minute tour and whiskey tasting, followed by free time to explore the grounds.
- The tour highlights the historical significance of the distillery, named after the first African American master distiller, Nearest Green, who taught Jack Daniel the art of whiskey making.
- The tour includes transportation via air-conditioned coach bus and allows for the purchase of exclusive whiskey releases from the distillery.
- A moderate physical fitness level is recommended for the tour, and a valid government-issued photo ID is required for participants.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Uncle Nearest Green Distillery Tour from Downtown Nashville is priced at $119.00 per person.
The Uncle Nearest Green Distillery Tour from Downtown Nashville is priced at $119.00 per person.
The 5-hour tour departs at 1:30 PM from Bob’s Steak & Chop House and arrives at the distillery at 2:30 PM. The tour includes a 90-minute guided tour of the distillery and a whiskey tasting.
Visitors have free time to explore the grounds before returning to Nashville around 6:30 PM.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance. Visitors must have a valid photo ID and be moderately fit, as the tour lacks bathroom facilities on the bus.
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Experience and Itinerary
The guided tour of the Nearest Green Distillery lasts around 90 minutes, during which visitors will learn about the historical significance of the distillery and its connection to the pioneering African American master distiller, Nearest Green.
The tour includes:
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Whiskey tasting
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Free time to explore the distillery grounds
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Transportation via air-conditioned coach bus
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3 hours of activities at the distillery
The itinerary also includes bus travel, with a 1-hour ride each way.
Visitors are encouraged to have a moderate level of physical fitness, as the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Historical Significance
Although the Nearest Green Distillery is one of the largest black-owned distilleries in the U.S., its historical significance goes far beyond its ownership.
The distillery is named after Nathan "Nearest" Green, the first African American master distiller, who taught Jack Daniel the art of whiskey making. Green is credited with perfecting the "Lincoln County Process," a unique filtration method that distinguishes Tennessee whiskey from bourbon.
His contributions were instrumental in the development of the Jack Daniel’s brand, yet his story remained obscured for decades.
The Nearest Green Distillery aims to honor his legacy and celebrate his pivotal role in the whiskey industry.
Visitor Information
To visit the Nearest Green Distillery, guests must bring a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a passport or driver’s license.
A moderate physical fitness level is recommended, as the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Visitors should plan accordingly, as there are no bathrooms on the bus.
The tours operate rain or shine, so guests are advised to dress appropriately.
The key visitor information includes:
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Valid government-issued photo ID required
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Moderate physical fitness level recommended
-
No bathrooms on the bus
-
Tours operate rain or shine
Additional Notes
Along With the tour experience, distillery-exclusive whiskey releases are available for purchase onsite. Visitors can browse the selection and bring home a unique bottle from the Uncle Nearest Green Distillery. Beyond the whiskey, the distillery also offers on-site dining options, including Barrel House BBQ and Humble Baron. These dining choices provide a chance to further take in the distillery’s atmosphere and culture.
| On-Site Dining Options | |
| — | — |
| Barrel House BBQ | Humble Baron |
| Barbecue classics | Contemporary fare |
| Casual setting | Upscale ambiance |
| Pair with whiskey tastings | Complement whiskey pairings |
| Authentic Southern cuisine | Elevated dining experience |
The tour is subject to changes based on weather or minimum traveler requirements, but refunds or rescheduling options are provided if needed.
Exploring the Distillery Grounds
Visitors to the Uncle Nearest Green Distillery are given ample time to freely explore the expansive grounds after the guided tour.
The grounds feature:
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A stunning landscaped courtyard with seating areas, perfect for enjoying a glass of whiskey.
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A charming on-site restaurant, Barrel House BBQ, offering delicious local cuisine.
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The Humble Baron, a cozy cocktail lounge serving innovative whiskey-based drinks.
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Opportunities to browse the distillery’s gift shop for exclusive bottles and merchandise.
Guests can wander at their own pace, seeing the rich history and atmosphere of this renowned distillery.
Transportation and Logistics
The tour departs from downtown Nashville, with the bus picking up participants at Bob’s Steak & Chop House located at 250 Rep. John Lewis Way South.
The air-conditioned coach bus provides transportation to and from the distillery, with the one-way trip taking approximately an hour each way.
The air-conditioned coach bus transports visitors to and from the distillery, with a one-way journey of around an hour.
Once at the distillery, visitors have around 3 hours to explore the grounds and take part in the guided tour and tasting.
The tour operates rain or shine, so guests should dress appropriately.
Bathrooms aren’t available on the bus, so planning ahead is advised.
The return to Nashville is expected around 6:30 PM.
Whiskey Tasting and Purchases
A highlight of the tour is the whiskey tasting, where visitors can sample a variety of Uncle Nearest’s award-winning whiskeys.
The tasting includes:
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Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey
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Uncle Nearest 1884 Small Batch Whiskey
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Uncle Nearest 1856 Premium Whiskey
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Limited-edition or distillery-exclusive whiskey releases
Guests can also purchase bottles of their favorite Uncle Nearest whiskeys to take home.
The distillery’s on-site store offers a wide selection, including rare and limited releases not found elsewhere.
With the tour’s included tastings and the opportunity to shop, visitors can fully enjoy the legacy of the pioneering master distiller, Nearest Green.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Photography Allowed During the Distillery Tour?
Visitors are generally allowed to take photos during the distillery tour, but it’s best to check with the tour guides for any specific restrictions or guidelines prior to the visit. Some areas may be off-limits for photography.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Passengers aren’t allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour provides transportation and includes a whiskey tasting, but outside food and beverages aren’t permitted. Visitors should plan accordingly and take advantage of the on-site dining options at the distillery.
Do I Need to Book the Tour in Advance or Can I Purchase on the Day?
Customers can book the tour in advance to secure their spot, but they may also purchase the tour on the day of if availability allows. Advance booking is recommended to guarantee a spot on the tour.
Is There a Dress Code for the Distillery Tour?
There’s no formal dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. The tour involves some walking, so dressing for mobility is advised. Visitors should dress in a manner suitable for a distillery tour.
Are Group Discounts Available for the Distillery Tour?
According to the tour details, group discounts aren’t explicitly mentioned. However, the tour offers a ‘Reserve now & pay later’ option, which may provide some flexibility for booking larger groups. It’s best to inquire directly with the tour provider about any group pricing.
The Sum Up
This captivating tour takes visitors on a 5-hour journey to explore the rich history of the Uncle Nearest Green Distillery. Priced at $119 per person, the experience includes a guided tour, tastings of award-winning whiskeys, and ample time to discover the distillery grounds. With comfortable transportation provided, this tour offers an immersive and educational experience into the remarkable legacy of Nearest Green and the world of whiskey.
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