Famous Moonshine & Wine Tour From Pigeon Forge

Thinking about adding a splash of local flavor to your trip in the Smoky Mountains? The Famous Moonshine & Wine Tour from Pigeon Forge offers a fun, relaxed way to sample Tennessee’s best wines and moonshines, all while soaking in some interesting history and scenic spots. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on the rave reviews, it seems like a solid choice for anyone curious about Tennessee’s spirited traditions or just wanting a lighthearted day with friends.

What we really like about this tour is its emphasis on small-group intimacy and guided insights—you get to learn about the storied history of moonshine and prohibition while tasting some seriously good local drinks. Plus, the variety of stops means you’re not just stuck with one flavor or style; it’s a well-rounded tasting experience. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour runs around four hours, which can feel a bit long for some, especially if you’re not big drinkers or prefer a quicker outing.

This tour is perfect if you’re into wine, moonshine, or spirits, enjoy local stories, and love trying flavors you can’t find in stores. It’s also a solid pick for those who appreciate friendly guides and good company. If you’re traveling with friends or going solo but want to meet new people, this trip’s intimate size makes socializing easy. But if you’re not comfortable with alcohol or have mobility issues, that’s something to consider.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more personal experience with your guide.
• Multiple stops give a diverse tasting and learning experience about local spirits and wines.
• Insider tips from knowledgeable guides add depth to the visit.
• Complimentary tastings and a free gift make the price quite competitive.
• Duration of 3 to 5 hours offers a relaxed pace, but might feel long if you’re not into drinking.
• No hotel pickup means you’ll need to arrange your own transportation or meet at the starting point.

An Honest Look at the Moonshine & Wine Tour

If you’re considering this tour, here’s what you can expect from start to finish—and how it might fit into your trip plans. This experience combines educational content, tastings, and local flavor, making it an appealing choice for spirits enthusiasts or anyone looking for a fun, casual activity in Sevierville.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start Point and Duration

You’ll gather at 220 Apple Valley Rd in Sevierville around noon, then hop into a comfortable vehicle with a small group of up to 15 travelers. The tour runs roughly 3 to 5 hours—so plan accordingly. The flexible timing is good, especially if you want to leave ample time to explore other sights afterward.

Stops & What You’ll Experience

The itinerary includes six main stops, each with its own character. Most are free tastings, with the notable exception of Tennessee Homemade Wines and Tennessee Shine Co., where tastings are included in the ticket price.

• Apple Barn Winery: A good starting point, where you get a chance to sample their wines. It’s a mellow introduction and sets the tone for the day.
• Apple Barn Hard Cider Company: If you’re into cider, this stop offers a refreshing change of pace.
• Hillside Winery: Known for its mountain-grown wines, this is another solid wine-focused stop.
• Tennessee Homemade Wines: This one’s highlighted as some of the best wine in Tennessee, with tastings included.
• Tennessee Shine Co.: The highlight for many, this stop offers both moonshine and wine tastings. One review mentions that the “chilled shine made all the difference,” which hints at how well the drinks are served.
• Smith Creek Moonshine: Based in Nashville, their moonshine is praised for quality and southern hospitality. It’s a free stop where you can sample some of their offerings.

Throughout the tour, your guide shares stories about moonshine’s history and its role during Prohibition, adding context that makes the tastings more meaningful. Several reviewers mention how much they appreciated the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, often calling out “Pam” as a standout.

What Makes It Special

The insider tips shared by guides elevate this beyond just tasting; it’s about understanding the significance of each drink and the craft behind it. Several reviews mention how guides, especially Pam, made the experience memorable through their friendly, informative approach. One reviewer said, “Pam was so wonderful… very informative and helpful,” which seems to be a common sentiment.

The complimentary tastings and free gifts add value, making the $70 per person feel like a fair deal. With visits to multiple venues, you get a taste of different styles—ranging from traditional corn mash moonshine to fruit-infused spirits and mountain wines.

The Drinking Experience and Social Vibe

Most reviewers comment on how enjoyable, relaxed, and social the experience was. Some say they ended the tour feeling like they had made new friends, while others highlight how their guides kept the mood light and fun. One guest referred to their guide as “Fairy Booze Mother,” capturing how approachable and warm the guides can be.

Many reviews emphasize the quality of the drinks—not just cheap samples, but genuine, flavorful spirits and wines. One reviewer said, “The wines were great,” and another loved the “chilled shine” that made tasting more enjoyable.

The Practical Side

While the tour is priced at $70, considering the number of tastings, the personal stories, and the guide’s expertise, many find it excellent value. Keep in mind, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point. It operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately—bring layers if it’s chilly or rain gear if needed. The tour is suitable for anyone 21 and over, with a maximum group size of 15, creating a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

What People Are Saying

Overall, reviews are highly positive, averaging a 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 300 reviews. Guests love the friendly guides, especially Pam, and the variety of drinks offered. Several mention how the tour exceeded expectations, with comments like “Better than expected” and “A blast.” Enthusiasts appreciated the local stories and the chance to discover new favorites among wines and spirits.

That said, a couple of reviews point out some logistical issues, such as difficulty locating the meeting point or the tour feeling a bit long for those not accustomed to sampling extensively. One reviewer expressed dissatisfaction after a cancellation due to health issues, which was promptly addressed by the company.

Who Should Do This Tour?

If you’re over 21 and enjoy spirits or wine, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially appealing if you’re curious about the history of moonshine and want to learn from knowledgeable guides. The small group setting is perfect for those who prefer a more personalized experience and friendly atmosphere. However, if you have mobility issues or prefer a shorter outing, this might not be ideal since it lasts several hours.

Final Thoughts

The Famous Moonshine & Wine Tour from Pigeon Forge offers a relaxed, friendly, and flavorful way to experience Tennessee’s spirits scene. You’ll leave with a better understanding of the craft, some tasty samples, and hopefully a few new favorites. It’s a good pick for curious travelers, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a laid-back day with a bit of education and a lot of fun.

The tour’s strong points—knowledgeable guides, diverse tastings, and local stories—make it a standout in the area. While mainly geared toward adults who enjoy spirits, the quality and atmosphere make it worth considering even if you’re just interested in the cultural side of Tennessee’s alcohol history.

All in all, if you’re looking for an engaging, reasonably priced way to explore local flavors and meet like-minded travelers, this tour is worth your time.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the starting point in Sevierville.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs about 3 to 5 hours, depending on the group and stops.

What is the minimum age requirement?
You need to be 21 years or older to participate.

Are the tastings included in the price?
Yes, tastings at each venue are included, with some stops offering multiple samples—wine, moonshine, cider, whiskey, vodka, and rum.

Is the tour suitable in all weather?
Yes, it operates rain or shine. Be sure to dress appropriately since it’s outdoors at some venues.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What are the highlights of the tour?
You’ll visit several distilleries and wineries, enjoy insider stories, sample local spirits, and get a free gift from the wineries.

Can I bring children?
No, the minimum age is 21, so this experience is strictly for adults.

If you’re ready for a spirited day of tasting, storytelling, and local charm, this tour could be a fun addition to your Smoky Mountains trip. Just remember to pace yourself, stay hydrated, and enjoy the friendly company and tasty drinks!