Distillery Tour at Gate 11

If you’re looking for a hands-on taste of Tennessee’s spirited side, the Gate 11 Distillery tour in Chattanooga offers a compelling peek into a small-batch operation with big ambitions. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of an experience that combines craftsmanship, history, and some seriously good spirits.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides, like Quinton, who are passionate about their craft and eager to share insights. Second, the variety of spirits—from award-winning vodka and gin to bourbon, rye, and single malt—that showcase the distillery’s versatility. Third, the authentic atmosphere of a working, family-friendly distillery with hands-on demonstrations and a chance to see the process up close.

However, it’s important to consider that the tour lasts around one hour, which might feel a bit quick if you’re after an in-depth exploration. Also, the maximum group size is 10 travelers, so it’s intimate but might require booking in advance. This experience is ideal for those who enjoy craft spirits, are curious about distillation, or simply want a fun, educational outing in Chattanooga.

Good To Know

• Affordable Price: At $18 per person, it’s a good-value experience for a behind-the-scenes look at a craft distillery.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Quinton bring passion and knowledge, enriching the tour with engaging stories.
• Comprehensive Experience: From mash cookers to botanical stills, you’ll see the entire process, including the top and bottom of stills.
• Tasting Opportunity: Samples of spirits—some hailed as among the best vodka and gin—are included, allowing you to taste the fruits of their labor.
• Location & Accessibility: Located near public transportation in Chattanooga, making it easy to include in your itinerary.
• Member of Tennessee Whiskey Trail: Signaling quality and authenticity in Tennessee’s spirit scene.

The Details: What You Can Expect

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting point: 1400 Market St suite 108 in Chattanooga, the tour begins with an overview of Gate 11’s approach to craft distilling. The distillery is small but well-equipped, featuring two levels that give a real sense of the production process.

On the first floor, you’ll see the bottling operations, mash cooker, and fermenter. The guides explain how these core components work together to create your favorite spirits. You may also get a glimpse of the lower sections of the pot and column stills, which are key to the distillation process. As one reviewer pointed out, “Our guide was articulate and passionate,” making the technical parts engaging even for novices.

In the second level, the focus shifts to the upper parts of the stills and the botanical extraction stills. This level also offers insights into the product development process and the unique spirits they produce. It’s here that you’ll get a better appreciation of how the distillery creates such a diverse array, from vodka and gin to bourbon, rye, and single malt.

What Makes It Special?

The highlight is seeing five hand-built still systems capable of a broad range of spirits. This isn’t a mass-produced operation—it’s a small, craft-oriented distillery proud of its hands-on approach and quality. The tour does a good job of connecting the machinery and techniques to the final products, which is something visitors really appreciate.

Tasting and After-Tour Experience

Post-tour, participants can sample the spirits, which have earned praise for their quality. Reviewers mention the vodka as “some of the best I’ve ever had,” and the gin being “astonishing,” potentially rivaling some of the best in the US. This tasting component elevates the experience from purely educational to truly enjoyable.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate environment perfect for asking questions and engaging directly with guides. This smaller size allows for more personal attention and a relaxed vibe.

Accessibility and Convenience

Located near public transportation in Chattanooga, the meeting point is straightforward. The tour is mobile ticketed, so no need to worry about printing or delays. The duration of about one hour strikes a good balance—enough to see and learn without feeling rushed.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Several reviews highlight the passion of the guides, especially Quinton, who is described as “very passionate and knowledgeable.” His storytelling helped bring the process to life, making the technical parts accessible and interesting.

Another reviewer shared, “This tour had a little bit of everything,” including the history of the building, mechanics of distilling, and chemistry, which shows how the tour balances educational content with fun.

The spirits themselves also get high praise. One guest remarked, “All of the spirits in the tasting room were phenomenal,” reinforcing that the product quality matches the engaging experience.

Pricing and Value

At $18 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a behind-the-scenes look at a craft distillery alongside tastings. Considering the quality of spirits sampled—some hailed as the best vodka they’ve ever had—it’s a budget-friendly way to deepen your appreciation of Tennessee spirits.

While the hour-long tour may seem brief, the combination of technical insight, historical context, and tastings makes it a worthwhile investment. It’s especially suitable for those interested in spirits, craft production, or just looking for a fun, educational activity while exploring Chattanooga.

The Sum Up

The Gate 11 Distillery tour strikes a nice balance between education, authenticity, and tasting pleasure. The guiding expertise and intimate setting make it stand out among similar experiences, especially if you’re curious about the craft side of spirits production.

The spirits themselves are a major draw—particularly their vodka and gin, which have earned praise for quality and flavor. The tour’s value is further enhanced by its reasonable price point and central location, making it an easy addition to any Chattanooga itinerary.

This experience is perfect for curious travelers, spirit aficionados, or anyone wanting to see the craftsmanship behind Tennessee’s celebrated distilling scene. While it’s not a vast, sprawling tour, it offers enough depth and engagement to leave you both informed and inspired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is designed for travelers aged 21 and above because alcoholic beverages are served during the tasting session.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately one hour, making it a compact but comprehensive experience.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, there is a free cancellation policy. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transportation, making it convenient to reach in Chattanooga.

What spirits are sampled during the tour?
While specific spirits aren’t listed, reviewers mention sampling a variety—including vodka and gin—noted for their exceptional quality.

How many people will be on the tour?
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, promoting an intimate and interactive experience.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable attire is recommended, and bringing a notebook or camera might be helpful for remembering details.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Reviewers commend Quinton and others for being articulate, passionate, and well-informed about the distilling process.

Is the experience family-friendly?
Given the alcohol tasting component and age restrictions, it’s best suited for adults over 21.

This detailed look into the Gate 11 Distillery tour shows it’s a worthwhile experience that combines craft, education, and tastings. Whether you’re a spirits lover or just curious about how Tennessee’s iconic drinks are made, this tour offers a genuine and engaging behind-the-scenes glimpse.