Smoky Mountain Moonshine Trail: A Complete Distillery Guide

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The Great Smoky Mountains have a history as rich and complex as the whiskey that flows from their hidden stills. For generations, the art of moonshining has been a part of the local culture, a tradition born of necessity and perfected in secret. Today, the spirit of the mountains is no longer a clandestine affair. It’s a celebrated craft, and you’re invited to experience it firsthand on the Smoky Mountain Moonshine Trail. This guide will lead you through the best distilleries in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, where you can sample the authentic taste of Appalachia and learn the stories behind the shine.

The Illicit History of Appalachian Moonshine

The story of moonshine in the Smoky Mountains is a tale of rebellion, resourcefulness, and a deep-rooted desire for independence. When Scotch-Irish immigrants settled in the Appalachian Mountains, they brought with them the knowledge of distilling. They quickly adapted their techniques to the new world, using corn, the region’s most abundant crop, to create a potent, unaged whiskey. This “white lightning” was more than just a drink; it was a form of currency, a medicinal remedy, and a way for families to survive in a harsh and unforgiving environment.

For decades, moonshining was a cat-and-mouse game between the distillers and the law. The government, seeking to tax all alcohol production, was met with fierce resistance from the mountain folk, who saw the tax as an unjust intrusion on their way of life. This led to a culture of secrecy and suspicion, where stills were hidden deep in the woods, and every stranger was a potential threat. The legends of legendary moonshiners and their daring escapes from the law are still told in the mountains today, a testament to their ingenuity and defiance.

The Great Smoky Mountain Moonshine Trail

Today, the legacy of moonshine is alive and well in the Great Smoky Mountains, but with a modern, legal twist. The once-illicit spirit is now a celebrated craft, with distilleries throughout the region opening their doors to visitors. The Great Smoky Mountain Moonshine Trail is a collection of these distilleries, each offering a unique glimpse into the art and science of moonshine making. From traditional corn whiskey to a wide array of flavored shines, there’s something to suit every palate. As you travel the trail, you’ll not only get to sample the spirits but also learn about the history and culture of moonshine in the Smokies.

Ole Smoky Moonshine: The Holler

No moonshine tour of the Smokies would be complete without a visit to Ole Smoky Moonshine, the first federally licensed distillery in East Tennessee. Their flagship location, “The Holler,” is a must-see attraction in Gatlinburg. As you approach, you’ll be greeted by the sweet smell of fermenting corn and the sounds of live bluegrass music. Inside, you can watch the entire moonshine-making process, from the mashing and fermentation to the distillation and bottling. The distillers are always happy to answer questions and share their knowledge, giving you a true behind-the-scenes look at the craft.

But the real highlight of a visit to The Holler is the tasting. For a small fee, you can sample a wide variety of their moonshine flavors, from the traditional White Lightnin’ to more inventive creations like Apple Pie, Blackberry, and Butter Pecan. The tasting experience is as entertaining as it is educational, with the bartenders sharing stories and jokes as they pour. It’s a true taste of Appalachian hospitality.

Sugarlands Distilling Company: A Modern Twist on an Old Tradition

Just down the parkway from Ole Smoky, you’ll find Sugarlands Distilling Company, a distillery that’s putting a modern spin on the age-old tradition of moonshine. The first thing you’ll notice about Sugarlands is its beautiful, barn-style building. Inside, you’ll find a state-of-the-art distillery, a tasting bar, and a retail store. But what really sets Sugarlands apart is its commitment to quality and innovation.

Sugarlands works with legendary moonshiners like Mark Rogers and “Tickle” from the Discovery Channel’s “Moonshiners” to create their award-winning spirits. They offer a wide range of moonshine flavors, from the classic Southern Sweet Tea to the more adventurous Peanut Butter and Jelly. They also produce a line of Appalachian Sippin’ Creams, which are perfect for adding to coffee or enjoying on their own. The tasting experience at Sugarlands is top-notch, with knowledgeable and friendly staff who are passionate about their products.

Tennessee Shine Co.: A Taste of Tradition

For a taste of authentic, small-batch moonshine, head to Tennessee Shine Co. With locations in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, this family-owned distillery is dedicated to preserving the traditional methods of moonshine making. Their moonshine is made from a family recipe that has been passed down for generations, and they use only the finest local ingredients. The result is a smooth, clean spirit that captures the true essence of the Smoky Mountains.

At Tennessee Shine Co., you can sample a variety of their moonshine flavors, from the classic White Lightning to the sweet and fruity Strawberry. They also offer a line of whiskey and other spirits, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they’re always happy to share the story of their family’s moonshining heritage.

Doc Collier Moonshine: A Legacy of Quality

Named after a legendary local moonshiner, Doc Collier Moonshine is a distillery that’s steeped in history and tradition. Located in the heart of Gatlinburg, this small-batch distillery is dedicated to producing high-quality moonshine using the same methods that have been used in the Smoky Mountains for generations. They use a copper pot still to create their moonshine, which gives it a smooth, clean flavor that’s hard to beat.

Doc Collier’s offers a variety of moonshine flavors, from the traditional corn whiskey to more inventive creations like Root Beer Float and Peach. They also have a line of moonshine brandies, which are perfect for sipping on their own or mixing in cocktails. The tasting experience at Doc Collier’s is intimate and personal, with the distillers themselves often on hand to pour samples and share stories.

Ole Smoky Barn: A Pigeon Forge Outpost

If you’re in Pigeon Forge, you don’t have to miss out on the Ole Smoky experience. The Ole Smoky Barn, located at The Island in Pigeon Forge, is a smaller version of The Holler, but it packs just as much punch. Here, you can sample a wide variety of Ole Smoky’s moonshine flavors, enjoy live bluegrass music, and soak up the lively atmosphere.

The Ole Smoky Barn is the perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of Pigeon Forge. You can relax in a rocking chair, listen to some good music, and enjoy a taste of the mountains. And if you find a flavor you like, you can take a jar home with you.

Moonshine Tasting Tips

To make the most of your moonshine tasting experience, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Pace Yourself: Moonshine is stronger than you might think, so it’s important to pace yourself. Don’t be afraid to ask for smaller samples or to skip a flavor if you’re not interested.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water between tastings to stay hydrated and cleanse your palate.
• Ask Questions: The distillers and bartenders are a wealth of knowledge, so don’t be afraid to ask questions. They can tell you about the history of moonshine, the distilling process, and the different flavors.
• Try Something New: Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and try a flavor you wouldn’t normally choose. You might be surprised at what you like.

Plan Your Visit

Ready to hit the Smoky Mountain Moonshine Trail? Here are a few final tips to help you plan your visit:

• Designate a Driver: If you’re planning on doing a lot of tasting, it’s important to have a designated driver. The legal drinking age in Tennessee is 21, and driving under the influence is a serious offense.
• Check Distillery Hours: Most distilleries are open daily, but it’s always a good idea to check their websites for hours of operation, especially if you’re visiting during the off-season.
• Book a Cabin: To make the most of your trip, consider booking a cabin with Vantage Stays. With a cozy cabin to call home, you can relax and unwind after a day of exploring the Moonshine Trail.