As the nights get crisp and the leaves get colorful, there’s no better time to grab some seasonal moonshine to enjoy with loved ones. Tennessee is famous for its moonshine, and the storied history behind the traditional drink. The days of moonshine distilling aren’t just a thing of the past: Tennessee distilleries are still among the best in the world. If you’re in Gatlinburg, make sure you check out these fantastic distilleries for a taste of the season, with a local flair.
Tennessee Shine Co.
A relative newcomer to the Tennessee moonshine scene (founded in 2015), it’s easy to see why this distillery has grown and expanded at a rapid rate. The Tennessee Shine Company offers homemade moonshine, Tennessee whiskey, and even its own wine. Try their blackberry shine, butterscotch moonshine, or go for a bold flavor if you’re feeling adventurous—flavors like Moon Pie (their specialty), cotton candy, and key lime cream are also available. Make sure you try their seasonal flavors—apple pie, winter cream, and pumpkin spice! If you’re in the Sevierville area you can take a tour of the distillery to see where the magic happens, or visit their new Gatlinburg location for browsing and tasting.
Sugarlands Distilling Co.
This locally-owned distillery opened its doors to the public in 2014. Since then, the fun barn-house location in downtown Gatlinburg has attracted aficionados from miles around. The company offers samples and apparel at their store, as well as special behind-the-scenes tours. The distillery grinds their own cornmeal in an artisan stone burr mill, before carefully distilling their popular moonshine. Flavors range from traditional (sour mash, unaged rye) to exciting (peanut butter and jelly or pina colada). Try their whiskey, spirits, or canned cocktails while you’re there!
Ole Smoky
This distillery is no newcomer to the world of Tennessee moonshine. In fact, it’s the first federally licensed distillery in eastern Tennessee. The company is proud of its storied history, one you can experience for yourself at The Holler, their store and distillery in Gatlinburg. You can purchase seven samples for $7 (it even comes with a coupon for $7 off on alcohol, so it’s a real bargain), and try moonshine ranging from 35 proof to 100 and above. Flavors such as Moonshine Cherry and White Lightning are popular, and you can also get seasonal moonshine such as Apple Pie and Pumpkin Pie. The distillery also offers whiskey and canned cocktails, as well as tours of the Gatlinburg distillery. Make sure you visit the Ole Smoky distillery before leaving Gatlinburg!
Fall is the perfect season for drinks, bonfires, and time with friends and family. Visit Tennessee’s distilleries to get a taste of the season with the area’s traditional moonshine, whiskey, and spirits. Whether you go for a seasonal variety or some traditional sour mash, you’re sure to leave with fun memories and a jar or two of moonshine.
