Bourbon & Blood: A Tennessee Whiskey History & Tasting Experience

When it comes to Nashville, most travelers think of live music and iconic country venues. But there’s a fascinating side to the city that many overlook—the gritty, spirited history of Tennessee whiskey intertwined with Prohibition-era crime and clandestine speakeasies. The tour called Bourbon & Blood offers an engaging way to uncover this rebellious past through expert-led storytelling, premium tastings, and visits to historic landmarks.

While we haven’t experienced it ourselves, reviews and descriptions suggest this tour is a well-rounded journey that balances educational value with fun. What really draws us in are its focus on immersive storytelling, visits to three different premium tasting rooms, and the chance to walk through Printer’s Alley, infamous for its bootlegging and underground bars.

A potential drawback? The tour’s strict dress code—business casual attire—is a unique requirement that might catch some visitors off guard. Still, if you’re dressed appropriately, it adds to the authentic, vintage feel of the experience.

This tour is ideal for whiskey lovers, history buffs, or anyone curious about Nashville’s colorful past. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy guided experiences that combine education with a dash of adventure.

Good To Know

• Historical storytelling brings Nashville’s Prohibition era to life.
• Visits to three curated tasting rooms offer diverse whiskey experiences.
• Professional guides enhance understanding with their insider knowledge.
• Visits to Printer’s Alley and the Ariston explore the city’s secretive past and preserved speakeasy vibes.
• Price point of $44.95 provides access to a comprehensive, engaging two-hour experience.
• Dress code calls for business casual, adding a touch of vintage class to the evening.

An Authentic Journey Through Nashville’s Whiskey and Crime Tales

This Bourbon & Blood tour offers more than just tastings—it’s a narrative walk through Nashville’s hidden history of bootlegging, speakeasies, and criminal intrigue. With a total length of roughly two hours, it packs in significant storytelling and visits to some of the city’s most historic spots.

While the tour costs $44.95 per person, it’s important to consider what that includes. Tastings are not included in the ticket price, but at each of the three stops, you’ll enjoy curated flights of three half-ounce whiskeys. The focus here is on quality, variety, and storytelling rather than just the tasting itself.

Start at Standard Proof Whiskey Co.

The journey begins at Standard Proof Whiskey Co., where you’re treated to infused whiskeys that are unlike anything you might have tasted before. This first stop lasts around 30 minutes and offers an introduction to Nashville’s innovative side of whiskey-making. Reviewers mention their noteworthy infused whiskies that stand out as a highlight, especially for those who appreciate creative flavor combinations.

Nashville Barrel Company Distillery

Next, you visit Nashville Barrel Company, founded in 2018 by friends passionate about crafting quality spirits. Here, you’ll sample delicious spirits that reflect the city’s newer, vibrant distilling scene. The small-group format (usually around 10-20 guests) encourages interaction and personal attention from guides, making the experience feel intimate and informative.

Printer’s Alley: The Heart of the Underground

The third stop takes you to Printer’s Alley—a historic stretch known for its speakeasies, gaming houses, and criminal lore. A guided tour of the alley reveals its dark past, where bootleggers thrived amid prohibition laws. This part isn’t just about history; it’s about experiencing the atmosphere of secrecy and rebellion that defined the era.

The Ariston: Vintage Speakeasy Vibe

The final stop at The Ariston introduces visitors to the speakeasy-inspired cigar bar, immersing you in the ambiance of the prohibition era. Here, the storytelling continues, complemented by a curated whiskey flight. The setting is meant to evoke that clandestine, glamorous feel of the 1920s, making it a fitting close to the tour.

What You’ll Experience and Why It Matters

Each stop is carefully curated, with tastings and stories that add layers to Nashville’s history. The expert guide (whose knowledge is often praised in reviews) provides context and colorful anecdotes that make the past come alive. For example, reviewers mention the guide’s personable nature and their knack for sharing insider stories that aren’t in the guidebooks.

The visits to premium tasting rooms are thoughtfully scheduled, with 30-minute segments giving enough time to savor the spirits without feeling rushed. Since tastings are bought separately, expect to purchase drinks at each location—something that can add to the overall cost but also offers flexibility depending on your preferences.

Authenticity and Atmosphere

One of the tour’s strengths is its authentic vibe—from the vintage dress code to the historic streets you walk through. The strict dress code (business casual, no athletic gear) ensures that everyone adds to the immersive feel, and many reviewers say this enhances the overall experience. It’s a chance to step into the past, not just learn about it.

Accessibility and Practicality

The tour starts at Standard Proof Whiskey Co. at 219 Rep. John Lewis Way N, and ends at The Ariston. Both locations are centrally located in Nashville, near public transportation, making it accessible for most visitors. The tour usually proceeds rain or shine, with weather delays handled by rescheduling.

Pre-booking is recommended—most bookings are made about three weeks in advance—so plan accordingly to secure your spot. The group size is capped at 100, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Considerations and Tips

While the tour offers heaps of historical and sensory delights, there are a few points to keep in mind. Tastings are not included in the ticket price, so budget for drinks at each stop if you plan to sample extensively. The dress code might be restrictive for some, especially if you’re traveling light or in casual attire.

Reviews highlight some scheduling issues, with some guests receiving late notifications or being offered alternative tours. These seem to be exceptions rather than the norm, but it’s worth checking your confirmation and communication from the provider.

The value for money is solid considering the guided storytelling, access to historic locations, and curated tastings. For those who enjoy a mix of history, spirits, and a touch of Nashville’s rebellious past, this tour hits all the right notes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for whiskey enthusiasts wanting to learn about Tennessee’s spirit-making traditions and criminal past. It’s also ideal for history lovers who appreciate storytelling with a local flavor. If you’re after a unique, atmospheric experience that combines education, history, and good drinks, this tour checks all the boxes.

It’s best suited for adults over 21 (ID required), and the dress code means you should dress smartly—no athletic gear or cargo shorts. Those interested in small-group tours and intimate settings** will find this particularly appealing.

FAQs

Are the tastings included in the price? No, tastings are purchased separately at each of the three locations. The ticket includes the tour itself, guiding, and visits to historic sites.

How long does the tour last? The tour is approximately two hours, with each of the four stops lasting about 30 minutes.

Is there a dress code? Yes, guests are required to wear business casual attire—men need to wear collared shirts and closed-toe shoes, and athletic gear is not permitted.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

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

Is this tour suitable for all weather conditions? Yes, the tour proceeds rain or shine. Severe weather may cause rescheduling.

What kind of guide will I have? The tour is led by a knowledgeable whiskey expert who provides entertaining and insightful commentary on Nashville’s history and spirits.

Is this experience accessible? The locations are centrally located near public transport, but specific accessibility details aren’t provided. It’s best to inquire directly if you have particular needs.

Final Thoughts

Bourbon & Blood offers a thoughtfully curated experience that combines whiskey tasting, historical storytelling, and Nashville’s underground past. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want to go beyond the usual tourist spots and explore the city’s rebellious spirit through its famous drinks and secretive past.

The tour’s emphasis on authentic locations, expert guides, and immersive narratives makes it a memorable addition to any Nashville itinerary. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey fan or simply intrigued by the Prohibition era, it offers a balanced mix of education, fun, and flavor.

Ultimately, if you’re after a distinctive, history-rich experience that pairs well with Nashville’s lively vibe, this tour will provide a deeper, more textured understanding of the city’s past—and its spirits. Just remember to dress sharp, book in advance, and prepare for a boozy walk through history.