Ole Smoky Distillery The Barrelhouse in Gatlinburg offers visitors a chance to explore an impressive selection of handcrafted spirits, including premium whiskeys and moonshines. The distillery features a warm, rustic atmosphere that reflects the heritage of the Smoky Mountains. Guests can enjoy guided whiskey tastings, learn about the distillation process, and purchase exclusive bottles only available on site. It is a must-visit for those interested in authentic Appalachian craft spirits.
Ole Smoky Distillery traces its roots to the historic tradition of moonshining in East Tennessee, where distilling spirits was once a way of life for many mountain families. The Barrelhouse location in Gatlinburg pays homage to this cultural legacy by combining time-honored methods with modern craftsmanship. The distillery’s name references the wooden barrelhouses where whiskey matures, a critical part of developing flavor. This blend of history and innovation reflects the broader story of the Smoky Mountains region and its evolving artisanal economy.
Visitors to The Barrelhouse can expect a relaxed yet informative experience, with knowledgeable staff guiding tastings and sharing stories about each spirit. The setting, with exposed wood beams and copper stills, invites guests to linger and savor the nuances of small-batch production. Alongside tastings, there is a retail space stocked with exclusive releases and branded merchandise. Whether you are a whiskey novice or aficionado, the hands-on approach provides a deeper appreciation for the craft behind every bottle.
Reservations are not required but recommended during weekends and holidays to ensure availability for guided tastings.
The Barrelhouse welcomes visitors of all ages, but whiskey tastings are restricted to guests 21 and over.
Yes, the retail shop offers a variety of bottled spirits including exclusive releases available only at the Gatlinburg distillery.
Guided tours are available during select hours and provide insight into the distillation process and history of the brand.
Yes, there is convenient parking adjacent to The Barrelhouse for guests visiting the distillery.
Branded LocaleTrips sticker set arriving soon. Use the trail cam Bigfoot sticker, the heritage benchmark, and the editorial portrait on your water bottle, laptop, or Instagram story.
Field Notes
Last reported Bigfoot sighting near Ole Smoky Distillery - The Barrelhouse: On March 14, 2025, a visitor reported spotting a large, shadowy figure near Ole Smoky Distillery’s backwoods parking area. The figure was seen briefly crossing the tree line before disappearing, leaving footprints that resemble a large human but with unusually wide strides. While no photographic evidence was captured, local lore appreciates the tale as another chapter in Smoky Mountains mythos.
