Discover 2 Great Wine Tours In Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is known for its scenic mountain views and charming downtown, but it also offers surprisingly rich options for wine and moonshine enthusiasts. With local distilleries and wineries offering tastings rooted in Appalachian tradition, you can enjoy a genuinely authentic experience right in the mountains. We’ve curated this list based on reviews, ratings, and value to help you find the best fit for your taste. From intimate walking tours to behind-the-scenes tastings, each offers something special. For example, the Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour is highly rated with a perfect 5.0/5 based on 427 reviews, giving guests VIP treatment and insider access. Meanwhile, the Gatlinburg: Wine and Moonshine Walking Tour with Tastings offers a more personalized experience with a focus on Appalachian history.**

In this guide, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour, what makes them unique, and the kind of experience you can expect—whether it’s tasting 135-proof moonshine straight from the still or sampling Tennessee’s sweet wines. We’ll also give you practical advice on choosing the right tour based on your interests, budget, and time constraints.

Quick Overview

Our top picks include walking tours that combine scenic strolls with tastings and behind-the-scenes insights, perfect for small groups wanting an intimate experience. The first tour emphasizes moonshine and wine tasting with VIP treatment, while the second offers a more personalized look at Appalachian spirits and history. Both are highly rated and suitable for those eager to dive into local traditions without spending all day or breaking the bank. Expect to learn about distillation, enjoy tastings, and gain a deeper appreciation for Gatlinburg’s historic spirits scene.

1. Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour

This guided moonshine and wine tasting walking tour stands out for its perfect 5.0/5 rating from 427 reviews. Priced at $51.00 per person, it offers a 3.5-hour experience that balances fun, education, and tasting. The tour is designed for small groups—around 12 people—which ensures personal attention and plenty of time to ask questions. It kicks off with a visit to Tennessee Shine Company in Gatlinburg, where you’ll enjoy samples ranging from a 35-proof cream to a potent 135-proof moonshine straight off the still. Your guide shares stories about moonshine history and culture, making it more than just a tasting.

What makes this tour special is the behind-the-scenes access at a working distillery, where you learn how moonshine is traditionally distilled. Plus, you get a moonshine cocktail and a visit to a local winery, making it a true taste of Gatlinburg’s spirits scene. Reviewers rave about the entertaining hosts and the knowledgeable storytelling—“It was a great experience. You learn stuff while drinking,” one guest wrote.

Bottom line: If you want a comprehensive, fun, and intimate taste of Gatlinburg’s spirits, this tour offers excellent value for a well-rounded experience. It’s ideal for those who enjoy learning while sampling strong drinks in a friendly setting.

2. Gatlinburg: Wine and Moonshine Walking Tour with Tastings

This tour offers a 3.5-hour walking experience in Gatlinburg, priced at $48 per person, making it a cost-effective choice. Although it has fewer reviews (6), it maintains a perfect 5/5 rating, which speaks to its quality and personalized approach. The tour begins at 520 Parkway, where you’ll explore the rich history of Appalachian spirits and enjoy VIP tastings at local distilleries and wineries.

What sets this experience apart is the custom lineup of spirits and wines, including Tennessee’s renowned sweet wines and handcrafted cocktails featuring spirits from the distilleries. Guests appreciate the patience and understanding of the guide, making it a relaxed, friendly experience. The tour offers behind-the-scenes access to production areas, giving a real sense of how these spirits are made.

Bottom line: This tour suits those interested in more personalized attention and a broader look at Appalachian spirits and wine. Its focus on custom tastings and local history makes it ideal for enthusiasts wanting an authentic and intimate insight into Gatlinburg’s spirits scene.

How to Choose

When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time, and interests. The Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour offers a more structured, slightly longer experience with VIP treatment and a variety of tastings—great if you want a comprehensive look and a lively atmosphere. Meanwhile, the Gatlinburg: Wine and Moonshine Walking Tour with Tastings provides a more personalized and relaxed experience that emphasizes Appalachian stories and local products.

Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, as these tours are popular. Check availability and book in advance to secure your spot.

To sum it up, Gatlinburg’s wine and moonshine tours offer a delightful way to explore Appalachian traditions. For those seeking comprehensive tastings with VIP treatment, the Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour is hard to beat. If you prefer a more intimate, story-rich experience, the Gatlinburg: Wine and Moonshine Walking Tour provides a relaxed, personable atmosphere. No matter which you choose, you’re sure to gain a new appreciation for Tennessee’s spirited history—just remember to come thirsty and ready to learn.

Happy tasting!