Hillbilly Booze Cruise Tasting Tour

Exploring the Hillbilly Booze Cruise Tasting Tour: An Honest Look

If you’re considering the Hillbilly Booze Cruise Tasting Tour in Sevierville, you’re probably after a laid-back way to sample some local drinks and explore off-the-beaten-path spots. While this tour promises a small-group experience with visits to various distilleries, wineries, and breweries, it’s worth knowing what you’re really signing up for before you book.

Two things we like about this tour are its focus on local, small-scale places that tend to be hidden gems and the fact that it offers responsible tasting with a designated driver, which is pretty essential when you’re sampling moonshine and craft beers. It’s also a fairly affordable experience at $99 per person for around three hours, making it accessible for many travelers.

However, a notable drawback is the lack of guide commentary—some reviews mention that the guide didn’t provide much information during stops, which can leave guests feeling a bit disconnected from the experience. This tour seems best suited for those who want a casual, simple tasting outing rather than a detailed behind-the-scenes education or a lively party atmosphere.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with up to 7 travelers
• Focus on local, family-owned distilleries, breweries, and wineries
• Affordable price point for a 3-hour guided tasting
• Limited guide commentary, with some guests noting a lack of storytelling
• Includes transportation from a central meeting point
• Responsible drinking with a designated driver included

What You Can Expect from the Hillbilly Booze Cruise Tasting Tour

This tour is designed as a relaxed, no-frills way to enjoy some of Sevierville’s lesser-known alcohol spots. It’s a good pick if you want to skip the crowded tour buses and get a taste of authentic Appalachian spirits at your own pace. Let’s break down what this experience offers and what it entails.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Stop 1: Moonshine Depot
The first stop is a family-owned distillery, which is promising because it suggests a more personal, authentic vibe. They’ve been passing down their craft through generations, so you might get a flavor of deep-rooted tradition. The “real feel” of the place is a highlight, but the tour doesn’t include admission, so you’ll pay extra if you want to go inside and explore further. Expect about 30 minutes here—enough to sample and soak in the atmosphere.

Review insight: One reviewer mentioned that the guide didn’t give much background info during stops, which might be a missed opportunity at this spot. Still, the setting itself offers a genuine sense of Appalachian spirit.

Stop 2: Old Tennessee Distilling Company
Next, in Kodak, you’ll visit a distillery famous for its smooth, locally-made moonshine. Made from local corn, it’s described as bold and authentic, which is exactly what you want from a craft spirit. The tasting here is a relaxed, fun affair, with the opportunity to laugh and enjoy good company. Like the first stop, the tasting is about 30 minutes, but again, admission isn’t included, so plan for extra expenses if you’re interested in more than just sampling.

Review insight: Guests seem to appreciate the delicious flavors and the friendly atmosphere, though the overall experience might feel a little rushed if the guide isn’t structured to tell stories or share background.

Stop 3: Mountain Brothers Brewing Company
Moving on, you’ll hit a local brewery. Here, samples are available, and full pours can be purchased if you want to linger. The focus on craft beer gives a different taste of local flavor, and the setting offers a laid-back vibe perfect for chatting and relaxing. Food options are nearby if you’re feeling hungry.

Review insight: The brewery stop is straightforward, and many guests enjoy sampling the beers that highlight regional ingredients.

Stop 4: Tennessee Mountain View Winery
The final stop is at a family-owned winery located at the foothills of the Smokies. This spot stands out because you get to enjoy beautiful mountain views while sipping wines. It’s a picturesque finale to the tour, and the wines are generally well-received. The 30-minute stop gives just enough time to relax, take photos, and taste before heading back.

The Transportation and Group Size

You’ll be picked up at Bigfoot Philly Cheesesteaks, a central location, and the tour is operated by Smoky Bear Shuttle. The group is small—no more than 7 travelers—which should mean more personalized attention. The transportation is in a minivan, and since the group is so small, it offers a cozy, friendly atmosphere. However, the review mentions that the driver didn’t have tastings lined up and asked guests where they wanted to go, which might suggest a more casual or unstructured approach.

Price and Value Analysis

At $99 per person, this tour is on the affordable side, especially for a 3-hour experience. Still, some of the value depends on what you’re expecting. If you’re after in-depth education about each distillery or a lively, guided narrative, you might find this experience lacking. The stops are solid, but the guide’s lack of commentary, as pointed out in reviews, could leave some guests wishing for more storytelling.

Practical Considerations

• You need to be 21 or older to participate, as you’d expect.
• Bring ID for proof of age.
• The tour is most suitable for travelers who want a relaxed, casual tasting rather than a detailed tour.
• Since the tasting stops are separate from the tour price, budget for additional costs if you decide to purchase full-size drinks.
• The cancellation policy is flexible—free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for small groups of friends or couples looking for a low-key, inexpensive way to taste some local spirits and beers without the fuss of a big tour. It’s suited for those who enjoy a casual vibe and don’t mind a bit of unpredictability, especially with the guide’s approach in mind. If you’re craving in-depth stories or a lively, guided narrative, you might want to look elsewhere. However, if you’re happy with a straightforward tasting with minimal commentary, this tour will do just fine.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Hillbilly Booze Cruise Tasting Tour provides a simple, inexpensive way to explore some of Sevierville’s hidden alcohol spots. The stops at family-owned distilleries and wineries offer a glimpse into Appalachian craftsmanship, and the small-group setup is intimate enough to feel personalized—if the guide’s casual approach works for you.

But be aware that some guests have found the guide’s lack of detailed commentary a bit disappointing, and the overall experience is fairly straightforward without many bells and whistles. It’s a good choice if you want a relaxed afternoon of tasting and sightseeing without extra fuss or high costs. For those who value storytelling and structured tours, this might leave you wanting more.

In the end, whether this tour hits the mark depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re after a budget-friendly, easygoing day with friends to sample some local drinks, it could be just right. If you’re expecting a highly educational or lively experience, you might want to consider other options.

FAQs

Is transportation provided for this tour?
Yes, you’ll be picked up at a central location in Sevierville and taken to each stop in a small van, making it convenient and easy to relax during the day.

Are the tasting stops included in the price?
No, the tasting fees at each distillery, brewery, and winery are additional, so you should plan for extra costs if you want to sample more than just the initial offerings.

Can I participate if I’m not from the US?
As long as you’re 21 or over and have valid ID, you’re welcome to join. The tour is focused on local Appalachian spirits, but international travelers can enjoy the experience too.

Is the tour suitable for families with children?
No, this tour is strictly for adults 21 and older due to alcohol consumption requirements.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 3 hours, including transportation time and stops.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Will I learn about the history of the spirits?
Not necessarily; the guide’s commentary may be limited, so if you’re looking for detailed background stories, this might not meet those expectations.

Overall, the Hillbilly Booze Cruise Tasting Tour is a straightforward, budget-friendly option for those seeking a relaxed afternoon of sampling local beverages in Sevierville. Just keep your expectations in check regarding guide commentary and in-depth storytelling.