Sugarlands Distilling Company is a craft distillery located just outside downtown Gatlinburg, Tennessee. It specializes in producing premium moonshine, whiskey, and a variety of unique liqueurs, including the popular Butterscotch Sippin Cream. Visitors can enjoy free tastings to sample the range of spirits or opt for paid tours that offer extended tastings and behind-the-scenes insights into the distillation process. The on-site Cocktail Kitchen serves expertly crafted cocktails made with Sugarlands spirits, and moonshine cocktail classes are available for those looking to learn hands-on mixology skills.
Named after the Sugarlands area within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the distillery embraces the region’s rich Appalachian heritage of moonshine production. The craft distilling movement in this area taps into a tradition dating back to the early 20th century when homemade spirits were part of local culture. Sugarlands Distilling Company has modernized these roots, blending traditional techniques with contemporary craft distilling standards. Its commitment to quality and authenticity reflects the cultural significance of moonshine in the Smokies.
Visitors to Sugarlands Distilling Company can expect a lively atmosphere enhanced by frequent live music performances that celebrate local talent. The tasting room offers a friendly environment to explore different spirits, while the tours provide an educational experience about the craftsmanship behind each bottle. For those interested in mixology, the cocktail kitchen and moonshine cocktail classes offer interactive ways to engage with the spirits. Whether stopping by for a quick tasting or spending the afternoon, guests leave with a deeper appreciation of Smoky Mountain distilling traditions.
Yes, Sugarlands offers free tastings of their core moonshine and liqueurs. Paid tours include extended tastings and additional samples.
Yes, paid tours provide behind-the-scenes access to the distillation process along with extended tastings.
Sugarlands offers moonshine cocktail classes where guests can learn to mix craft cocktails using their spirits in a hands-on setting.
While the distillery welcomes visitors of all ages, tastings and tours are restricted to guests 21 and older.
Yes, live music is often featured at the distillery, adding to the welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
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 Sugarlands Distilling Company: On September 14, 2024, a visitor reported spotting a large, shadowy figure near Sugarlands Distilling Company after closing. The figure reportedly disappeared into the woods without a sound. Locals joked it was Bigfoot stopping by for a moonshine sample.
