Bourbon & Blood: A Tennessee Whiskey History & Tasting Experience

Introduction

If you’re curious about Nashville beyond its country tunes and vibrant nightlife, the Bourbon & Blood: A Tennessee Whiskey History & Tasting Experience offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s secretive and sometimes shadowy past. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and descriptions suggest it’s a compelling mix of history, spirits, and storytelling that could appeal to whiskey lovers and history buffs alike.

Two things that definitely stand out about this experience are the engaging guides and the visits to historic, atmospheric locations like Printer’s Alley. These elements help bring Nashville’s Prohibition era to life and make the tour more than just a tasting — it’s a window into a time when crime and bootlegging intertwined with local culture. A third highlight is the curated flights of whiskey, which promise a good variety of flavors that showcase Tennessee spirits’ depth.

One point to consider is the strict dress code and the requirement for a government ID—not a huge deal, but worth noting if you’re planning to dress casually or forget your ID. Also, the tour’s fixed schedule and the fact that tastings are paid separately might affect how you plan your day. This tour is best suited for those with an interest in spirits, history, or true crime stories, particularly if you’re looking for a guided experience that combines storytelling with tastings.

Key Points

• Historical storytelling makes this tour engaging, especially for true crime and whiskey fans.
• Visits to three premium tasting rooms provide a variety of Tennessee whiskeys, including infused options.
• Atmospheric stops like Printer’s Alley and The Ariston add authentic historical flavor.
• Guided by a knowledgeable whiskey expert, ensuring you learn as you sip.
• Price point of $44.95 offers a decent value considering the curated flights, but alcohol is sold separately.
• Rain or shine scheduling makes this accessible for most weather conditions.

What to Expect from the Tour

This is a two-hour walk that packs in visits to three different locations, each offering a different slice of Nashville’s whiskey and criminal history. The tour starts at Standard Proof Whiskey Co., where you’ll get to sample infused whiskeys—something that promises a twist on your usual tasting experience. The infused spirits are highlighted as particularly unique, which is promising for those who enjoy discovering new flavors.

The second stop at Nashville Barrel Company introduces you to spirits made by a small, passionate team that aims for quality. It’s a good opportunity to taste some locally crafted whiskeys, and for anyone interested in what makes Tennessee whiskey special, this is a highlight.

The third stop takes you to Printer’s Alley, a street famous for speakeasies and illicit gaming during Prohibition. Here, you’ll stroll through the historic alley and learn about its darker past, which makes this section especially appealing for history enthusiasts or anyone interested in the gritty side of Nashville’s heritage.

The tour concludes at The Ariston, a speakeasy-inspired cigar bar that’s perfect for soaking in the ambiance and learning more about Tennessee whiskey’s links to the Prohibition era. The setting itself adds a layer of authenticity, giving you a sense of what it might have felt like to enjoy a clandestine drink back in the day.

Detailed Breakdown of Each Stop

Standard Proof Whiskey Co.

The first stop sets the tone with infused whiskeys that promise to be unlike any you’ve tasted before. The guide’s insights help you understand what makes these spirits special, and the tasting itself is a curated experience. Expect to sample three half-ounce pours, with flavors designed to surprise and delight.

The experience here is more than just tasting; it’s about understanding the craft behind infused spirits. Many reviewers mention how the guide’s knowledge made the experience more engaging, with Julia G noting, “The tour guide was very personable and informative. We learned so much about Nashville’s history.”

Nashville Barrel Company Distillery

This smaller, independent distillery is founded by friends who are passionate about quality spirits. Their offerings are crafted with care, and you’ll get to taste their spirits directly from the source. The fact that this is a relatively new operation (founded in 2018) means you’re sampling something fresh and local, which adds to the tour’s value.

The spirits here are described as delicious, and the experience is ideal for those wanting to support local Nashville producers. Since tastings are not included in the ticket but are sold separately, it’s good to be prepared for some additional expense, though many find the investment worthwhile.

Printer’s Alley

Walking through Printer’s Alley feels like stepping back in time. Historically known for speakeasies and underground gambling, this street oozes a rebellious vibe. The guide shares stories of bootleggers, secret bars, and the illicit nightlife that once thrived there.

This part of the tour is both educational and atmospheric. You get to see the buildings that hosted secret gatherings and hear tales of crime and glamour mixed together. This stop is especially popular, with visitors appreciating the storytelling and authentic feel.

The Ariston

The final stop at The Ariston ties everything together with its speakeasy theme. This cigar bar is styled to evoke the Prohibition era, creating an atmosphere that’s perfect for winding down and absorbing the history. It’s also a chance to learn about Tennessee whiskey’s tradition and its ties to the clandestine culture of the 1920s.

Guests often comment on how the setting enhances the storytelling and tasting experience. The bar’s ambiance makes it a memorable finish to the tour.

The Practical Side: Pricing, Group Size, and Booking

The ticket price of $44.95 per person provides access to the entire experience, which is quite reasonable considering it includes visits to three different tasting rooms and guided storytelling. But remember, tastings are sold separately at each location, so you should budget accordingly if you want to indulge in more spirits.

The tour typically lasts about two hours, which makes it a manageable activity without feeling rushed. It’s booked an average of 21 days in advance, suggesting good popularity but also giving you plenty of time to plan ahead.

You’ll be walking between stops, so comfortable shoes are advisable. The tour maintains a strict dress code, requiring business casual attire—men need to wear collared shirts and closed-toe shoes, while athletic gear or cargo shorts are not permitted. This adds a touch of formality but helps preserve the vintage vibe.

The group size can be up to 100 travelers, but most reviews mention a friendly, manageable number with guided commentary that keeps everyone engaged.

Authentic Guest Perspectives

One reviewer, Julia G, shares, “We had an amazing time on this tour! The tour guide was very personable and informative. We learned so much about Nashville’s history and were able to see a lot of the buildings that were part of it.” Her positive experience highlights how the guide’s storytelling adds substantial value.

However, not all feedback is perfect. Some guests experienced schedule changes with little notice. Kate H mentions, “Only an hour and a half before the event was scheduled to start, it was changed to a later time and a different location. There was no actual notification.” While the tour provider responded by offering upgrades and clarifying communication, it’s worth being aware that schedule changes can happen.

Another aspect that stands out is the tour’s weather independence. Since it proceeds rain or shine, you should be prepared for outdoor walking and varying weather conditions.

The Sum Up

The Bourbon & Blood experience offers a well-rounded peek into Nashville’s liquor history, blending storytelling, historical sites, and whiskey tastings in a way that’s both fun and educational. It’s clear that guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, and the atmospheric stops like Printer’s Alley and The Ariston lend a genuine sense of stepping back into Prohibition-era Nashville.

For travelers interested in spirits, history, or true crime stories, this tour provides a balanced experience that’s more than just tasting. The curated flights, combined with the stories behind each location, make it a memorable way to spend a couple of hours. The price is fair, especially if you’re curious to learn about Tennessee whiskey’s roots, but keep in mind that additional tastings are extra.

While the dress code and schedule changes are considerations, they are minor compared to the overall appeal. This tour suits those who enjoy guided experiences with a bit of storytelling flair, and it’s especially worthwhile for visitors who appreciate atmospheric, historic settings paired with quality spirits.

If you’re a whiskey enthusiast or history lover visiting Nashville, the Bourbon & Blood tour could be a highlight — offering a taste of the city’s rebellious past alongside some excellent local spirits.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for people under 21?
No, a government ID proving age of 21 or older is required to participate, and alcohol tastings are part of the experience.

Are the tastings included in the ticket price?
No, tastings are sold separately at each location, but the ticket grants access to the three premium tasting rooms and guided storytelling.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately two hours, making it a manageable activity without feeling rushed.

What is the dress code?
Guests should wear business casual attire. Men need to wear collared shirts and closed-toe shoes. Athletic gear or cargo shorts are not permitted.

Can the tour be canceled or rescheduled?
Yes, it proceeds rain or shine. In severe weather, it might be rescheduled. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

What if I want to stay longer at each location?
The tour schedule is fixed, with each stop lasting about 30 minutes. Additional tastings or time are available for purchase separately.

How many people can join?
Up to 100 travelers can participate, but most reviews mention a friendly group size with guided attention.

Is this a family-friendly experience?
It’s geared toward adults 21 and over due to alcohol consumption. Not suitable for children.

What’s the best way to book?
Book at least three weeks in advance, especially if visiting during peak times. The experience is available via online booking platforms like Viator.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Standard Proof Whiskey Co. and ends at The Ariston, both centrally located in Nashville.

If you’re intrigued by Nashville’s rebellious spirit, enjoy good stories, and want to sample some local whiskey, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. It combines history, flavor, and atmosphere in a way that’s both fun and insightful—just be prepared for a bit of dress-up and some extra costs for tastings.