Hillbilly Booze Cruise Tasting Tour

If you’re considering a local whiskey, wine, and beer tasting experience in Sevierville, the Hillbilly Booze Cruise Tasting Tour might catch your eye. Promising a journey through the hidden gems of the Smoky Mountains’ alcohol scene, this tour give you a relaxed, authentic Appalachian experience. However, as with many tours of this nature, the actual experience can vary quite a bit depending on expectations and what you’re really looking for.

What we love about this tour? First, it highlights small, family-owned distilleries and wineries, giving a more personal touch than your average commercial tasting room. Second, the small group size (max seven travelers) can lead to a more intimate and less rushed atmosphere. Third, the scenic views at Tennessee Mountain View Winery are genuinely lovely and a highlight for anyone who loves combining good drinks with gorgeous landscapes.

That said, one notable drawback is the lack of detailed narration from the guide—a point raised by at least one reviewer. If you’re hoping for an educational or storytelling experience, this tour might fall short. It’s more about tasting and enjoying than in-depth history or culture. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a laid-back, social afternoon rather than a structured, guided educational experience.

Good To Know

• Small group size offers an intimate experience, making it easier to chat and enjoy at each stop.
• Multiple tasting stops include moonshine, craft beer, and wine, covering a broad spectrum of local beverages.
• The scenic Tennessee Mountain View Winery provides beautiful views that enhance the tasting experience.
• Limited guided commentary means you might need to do some research on your own if you want detailed stories.
• The price of $99 per person is moderate, especially considering the included tastings and scenic locations.
• Reviews indicate some inconsistency in the guide’s engagement and organization, so expectations should be adjusted accordingly.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This three-hour tour begins at Bigfoot Philly Cheesesteaks, where you’ll be picked up in a mini-van with a very small group. From there, the journey unfolds into four stops, each offering a unique taste of the Smoky Mountain alcohol scene.

Stop 1: Moonshine Depot

The first stop is Moonshine Depot, a family-run operation where moonshine recipes have been passed down through generations. Visitors can expect to get a sense of local tradition and craftsmanship. While admission isn’t included in the tour price, the opportunity to taste authentic Appalachian moonshine makes this stop worthwhile. Expect a friendly, local vibe, but don’t anticipate a guided tasting—more of a “help yourself” approach, which might be a surprise for some.

Stop 2: Old Tennessee Distilling Company

Next, you’ll visit Old Tennessee Distilling Company in Kodak. Here, the focus is on smooth, locally made moonshine crafted from regional corn. The reviews suggest that the moonshine here is delicious and authentic, with a bold flavor that reflects the local terroir. Expect a tasting session centered around sipping and socializing, with an emphasis on enjoying the spirit rather than a detailed explanation.

Stop 3: Mountain Brothers Brewing Company

The third stop introduces craft beer to the mix. At Mountain Brothers Brewing, you’ll sample various brews, possibly purchasing a full pour if you find something you like. The scenic setting of the brewery adds an enjoyable backdrop to your tasting, and the staff is usually friendly. However, the review indicates that this stop is more casual, with less guidance on the beers being sampled.

Stop 4: Tennessee Mountain View Winery

The final destination is Tennessee Mountain View Winery, set against the stunning Smoky Mountains. Here, you’ll enjoy a selection of wines while taking in breathtaking vistas. This stop is often highlighted as a real highlight of the tour, thanks to the views and the quality of the wines. It’s a relaxing way to end the afternoon with a glass of wine and some fresh mountain air.

Transportation & Group Size

The tour is operated by Smoky Bear Shuttle and begins at a centrally located spot on Wears Valley Road. The transportation is in a mini-van, accommodating a maximum of seven travelers. This small group size is ideal for those who prefer a more personal experience and conversation with the guide, but it also means the experience can feel somewhat informal, as one reviewer noted—”the driver was asking us where we wanted to go and didn’t have tastings lined up.”

Timing and Duration

The tour lasts approximately three hours, starting at 3:00 pm. This timing allows for a leisurely exploration, but keep in mind that the lack of a structured guide means you might want to do some homework beforehand if you’re eager for the history behind the spirits.

Cost and Value

At $99 per person, this tour offers a decent value considering the number of stops and scenic locations. However, since ticket prices do not include the tasting fees at each distillery or winery, you should budget extra if you plan to purchase full pours or bottles. The key benefit here is the authenticity—you’re visiting family-owned spots rather than commercialized tourist traps.

What Do Past Reviewers Say?

The single available review paints a slightly skeptical picture: the guide was not particularly organized and relied on guests to direct the stops and inform about the spirits. The reviewer mentioned that “the tour guide did not tell us anything about the places,” which could be disappointing if you’re expecting an educational experience. However, they also noted that “all the establishments were good and fun,” suggesting that the quality of the tastings is reliable, even if the guiding isn’t.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour seems best suited for casual drinkers who enjoy sampling local spirits in a relaxed setting. If you’re looking for a more structured, educational tour with detailed insights into the spirits’ history and production, this might not be your best choice. It’s ideal for small groups of friends or couples who want a fun, social afternoon without breaking the bank.

However, if you’re someone who appreciates scenic views and authentic, family-run establishments over guided commentary, you’ll likely find this enjoyable. Keep your expectations in check regarding the guide’s role—it’s very much about the tastings and the company.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Hillbilly Booze Cruise Tasting Tour offers a laid-back, intimate look at the local spirits scene. While it doesn’t promise a comprehensive educational journey, it delivers on authentic tastings in charming, off-the-beaten-path venues. The scenic finale at Tennessee Mountain View Winery is a definite plus, making it a good choice for those wanting a relaxed afternoon with a taste of local life.

However, potential participants should be aware of the less-organized guiding and budget for additional tasting fees if they want to indulge further. The small group size and scenic stops make this suitable for travelers craving casual, authentic experiences over detailed narratives or guided history.

To sum it up, if you’re after a friendly, no-frills tasting tour with some beautiful views and authentic spirits, this tour could be a good fit. But if you prefer more guidance or a structured experience, you might want to explore other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is provided in a mini-van from the designated meeting point, and the tour ends back at the start location.

What do I need to bring?
You should bring a valid ID proving you’re 21 or older, as alcohol tastings are part of the experience. It’s also wise to have some cash or cards for purchases at each stop.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately three hours.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations up to 24 hours before the start are fully refundable. Cancellations less than 24 hours prior are non-refundable.

Are children or non-drinkers allowed?
This tour is strictly for those 21 and over, as alcohol tasting is involved.

What is the group size?
A maximum of seven travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Are the tasting fees included?
No, the tour price does not include individual tasting fees, which are paid directly at each stop.

Is this a guided tour?
It’s more of a casual, driver-led experience without detailed narration or guided commentary.

Is there any special dress code?
No specific dress code, but comfortable casual attire is recommended, especially if the weather is mild or variable.

Will I learn about the spirits?
Based on reviews, the guide’s role is minimal regarding storytelling or education, so expect to learn mainly through tasting and personal exploration.

In the end, the Hillbilly Booze Cruise Tasting Tour offers a relaxed, intimate snapshot of the Smoky Mountain alcohol scene, perfect for those who prioritize authentic flavors and scenic views over guided lessons. With reasonable pricing and small-group charm, it’s worth considering if your idea of a fun afternoon involves good drinks, good company, and a touch of mountain scenery.