Craft Distillery Tour along Tennessee Whiskey Trail with Tastings from Nashville

If you’ve ever wondered what makes Tennessee whiskey unique or wanted to sample some of the best small-batch spirits the state has to offer, this Craft Distillery Tour might be right up your alley. Offered by Tennessee Whiskey Tours, it promises a blend of history, tastings, and fun—all within a manageable 6-hour window. While we haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, we’ve gone through plenty of reviews and the details to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

One thing we love about this experience is the focus on small, craft distilleries—these places often have more personality and hands-on production stories than the big brands. Plus, the fact that transportation is taken care of, and you can just relax and enjoy the tastings, makes it a hassle-free way to explore. On the downside, there’s no restroom on the bus, so planning ahead is a smart move. This tour is perfect if you’re eager to learn about Tennessee whiskey outside the big-name brands and enjoy a laid-back day with a friendly guide.

Whether you’re a whiskey novice or a seasoned enthusiast, this tour tends to attract a diverse crowd, but it’s especially suited for those who appreciate good drinks, interesting stories, and a taste of local craftsmanship. If you’re in Nashville for a few days and want an easy, fun way to see the countryside while sipping on some of the area’s best spirits, read on—we’ve got all the details.

Key Points

• Visit 3 different craft distilleries along the Tennessee Whiskey Trail, offering a variety of styles and atmospheres.
• All tastings are included, with 3-5 samples at each stop—plenty to give you a good sense of each distillery’s offerings.
• Relax in comfort aboard a minibus with a professional guide, leaving the driving to someone else.
• Flexible itinerary with rotating distilleries, so each tour can offer a different experience.
• Ideal for those who enjoy storytelling and learning about Tennessee’s whiskey history in a casual setting.
• Plan for no restroom onboard and be ready for weather conditions, as the tour runs rain or shine.

An In-Depth Look at the Tennessee Craft Distillery Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour departs from downtown Nashville at a central location—specifically near 250 5th Ave South, close to Bob’s Steakhouse. It’s a smart choice that makes it easy for most travelers to meet up without extra fuss. The group size is capped at 24, which helps keep the experience intimate enough for everyone to ask questions and chat comfortably.

The journey kicks off at 11:00 am, giving you a laid-back start to the day. You’ll spend roughly six hours on the road, visiting three distilleries, with a return around 5:00 pm. The minibus is comfortable, and the driver, Jimmy, gets high praise for his engaging and friendly style—many reviews mention how he kept everyone entertained and on schedule.

The Itinerary and Destinations

The actual distilleries visited are not fixed and rotate, which adds a bit of surprise and variety to each tour. This means you could be sampling spirits from different types of producers—ranging from science-driven distilleries to family-owned operations. What does this mean for you? Each stop offers a chance to see different approaches to whiskey-making, and to taste a wide array of products.

The tour includes visits to places like Lieper’s Fork Distillery, which has been highlighted as a favorite among travelers thanks to their knowledgeable and entertaining guides like Paul. Other stops include the Company Distillery and Craft Distillery, which are noted for their interesting atmospheres and friendly staff. And just as many reviewers mentioned, the tastings are generous, with 3-5 samples offered at each location, giving you lots of opportunities to compare and discover your favorites.

Tasting Experience and Education

Taste buds are definitely the star of the show. You’ll be sampling a variety of spirits that showcase Tennessee’s craftsmanship. Many reviews mention how much they appreciated the amount of spirit offered, and how the guides provided insightful commentary, making each tasting both educational and enjoyable.

One reviewer pointed out that the tastings “provided enough information about their product to make us interested in purchasing,” which suggests the guides aren’t just pouring drinks—they’re sharing stories and knowledge about the process, history, and what makes each distillery unique.

Food and Additional Stops

There’s a stop for lunch, often at a popular spot like Martins BBQ, which travelers find to be a fantastic addition. Having a meal included or at least a dedicated break helps balance the day—spending hours on a bus can be tiring, so a good meal is appreciated.

Cost and Value

At $199 per person, this tour is a bit of an investment, but many say it’s worth it. You’re paying for the convenience of transportation, guided insight, multiple tastings, and a unique experience that’s hard to replicate on your own. Remember, all entrance fees are included, so there are no surprise costs once you’re on the tour.

What We Think

While the price might seem steep for some, the value lies in the experience—sampling multiple spirits without having to worry about driving, enjoying scenic views, and learning about Tennessee whiskey in a relaxed environment. If you’re someone who appreciates craft spirits and enjoys storytelling, this tour will likely resonate well.

Possible Drawbacks

The only common concern? The bus has no restroom, so plan accordingly—maybe use the facilities before boarding. Also, since the distilleries rotate, you might get different experiences from visit to visit, which is part of the charm but could mean some stops are stronger than others.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want an authentic taste of Tennessee whiskey without the hassle of planning multiple visits. It’s well-suited for adults over 21, especially those interested in spirits, history, or local craftsmanship. If you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or even in a small group, the social aspect is a bonus, as many reviews mention friendly, easy-going fellow participants.

It’s especially good if you like the idea of guided tours with educational value, and appreciate comfort and convenience. But if you’re looking for a more intense, in-depth whiskey professional’s tour, or if you need accommodations for children, this might not be the best fit. Still, for a fun, relaxed day of tasting and storytelling in Tennessee, it’s hard to beat.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for someone who doesn’t drink much whiskey?
Absolutely. Even casual drinkers can enjoy the variety and learn about Tennessee whiskey. Tastings are generous but not overwhelming, and guides provide plenty of context.

What is included in the price?
The $199 fee covers the 6-hour bus tour, visits to three distilleries, all tastings (3-5 samples at each stop), transportation, bottled water, taxes, and fees.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour starts, allowing a full refund.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, the minimum age is 21, and a valid government-issued ID is required to participate.

What should I wear?
Dress for all weather conditions since the tour runs rain or shine. No special attire is required, but comfortable shoes are advisable.

Is there a restroom on the bus?
No, there isn’t a restroom on board, so plan accordingly—use the facilities before boarding.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
The tour doesn’t specify meal accommodations beyond the stop at the BBQ restaurant, so consider any specific needs when planning.

How many people usually go on this tour?
The maximum group size is 24, which helps keep things personable and manageable.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, reviews frequently mention a comfortable, well-maintained minibus and a friendly, engaging driver.

What makes this tour different from visiting a big distillery like Jack Daniel’s?
It focuses on small, craft distilleries, giving you more intimate insights and a chance to taste spirits that are often more locally crafted and less commercialized.

Final Thoughts

This Craft Distillery Tour along the Tennessee Whiskey Trail offers a well-rounded experience blending education, indulgence, and scenic views. It’s geared toward those who want to sample quality spirits without the fuss of navigating on their own and who appreciate stories and craftsmanship behind every pour. The flexible, rotating distillery stops keep the experience fresh, and the friendly guides, especially Jimmy, help make the day memorable.

If you’re in Nashville and looking for a fun, relaxed way to dive into Tennessee’s renowned whiskey culture, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially appealing if you value authenticity, small-scale production, and a guided experience that balances education with plenty of tastings. Just remember to plan for no restroom on the bus, and you’ll be all set for a spirited day out.

Ready to explore Tennessee’s whiskey scene? This tour provides a taste of local craftsmanship, scenic countryside, and good company—all in one memorable package.