Bourbon & Blood A Tennessee Whiskey History & Tasting Tour

Introduction

If you’re intrigued by stories of gangsters, Prohibition-era secrets, and Tennessee’s legendary whiskey scene, the Bourbon & Blood: A Tennessee Whiskey History & Tasting Tour promises an engaging journey. This relatively new tour combines storytelling, historical intrigue, and select tastings, all led by an expert guide trained specifically in whiskey. Whether you’re a whiskey enthusiast or a curious traveler fascinated by Nashville’s darker past, this experience offers a lively, authentic look at the city’s secretive and scandalous history.

What we really love about this tour is how it seamlessly blends history and storytelling with curated tastings in some of Nashville’s most notable and hidden bars. The guide’s knowledge and storytelling flair really bring the stories of moonshiners, bootleggers, and prohibition-era criminals to life. One potential caveat: since the tasting isn’t included in the base price, you’ll want to budget for drinks if you want the full experience. This tour suits those interested in a mix of history, true crime, and a bit of Nashville’s rebellious spirit, especially if you enjoy engaging guides and intimate group settings.

Key Points

• Authentic local storytelling from a knowledgeable whiskey-trained guide
• Exclusive access to some of Nashville’s best and hidden whiskey tasting rooms
• A balanced mix of history, crime, and spirits, perfect for true crime fans and whiskey lovers alike
• Flexible cancellation policy, with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance
• Two-hour walking experience that’s easy to follow and highly engaging
• Tastings not included, but options available for purchase at each stop

Exploring the Nashville Whiskey and Crime Scene

This tour is designed to take you beyond the usual Nashville sights, immersing you in the city’s outlaw past and liquor trade secrets. It’s a full two-hour walk through some of Nashville’s most iconic yet often overlooked spots, where stories of bootleggers, gangsters, and prohibition-era scandals come alive. The meeting point is conveniently located in the lobby of the Standard Proof Whiskey Company, a fitting starting point given its focus on whiskey.

What Makes the Tour Special

The highlight here is the expert guide’s storytelling ability. They’ve been trained specifically in whiskey tasting, which adds an extra layer of credibility and insight. Our reviews praise guides like the one from GetYourGuide, describing them as “knowledgeable” and “entertaining,” which makes all the difference when piecing together the complex history of Nashville’s clandestine whiskey trade. You might find yourself asking questions, which the guide is happy to answer, making it a personalized experience.

The Itinerary: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

The tour doesn’t just focus on tasting whiskey—though that’s a big part of it—but also on understanding the cultural, political, and criminal elements that shaped Nashville’s liquor scene.

Starting at Standard Proof Whiskey Company

The tour begins here, where you’ll meet your guide and get a brief overview of Nashville’s history during Prohibition. The location itself is a modern, high-end bar that pays homage to the vintage spirit of the era. The guide will set the tone, sharing stories of Nashville’s murderous dark past, gangsters, and the rise of secret speakeasies.

Walking through Nashville’s Historic Bars

As you move through the streets, expect visits to some of Nashville’s most iconic and hidden tasting rooms. These aren’t just touristy spots—they’re places with deep roots in the city’s liquor history. While tasting isn’t included in the standard tour price, you’ll have opportunities to purchase curated pours of Tennessee’s finest spirits. Several reviewers have highlighted the quality of these selections, noting that the curated pours add a genuine flavor of Tennessee’s whiskey culture.

Stories of Outlaws and Crime

Each stop comes with enthralling stories—from bootleggers dodging revenuers to powerful families controlling Nashville’s liquor trade. The guide weaves in tales of murder, betrayal, and political corruption, making the tour feel like a lively history lesson. One guest described it as “a blend of true crime, Southern folklore, and historic scandal,” which is a pretty accurate summary.

The Final Stop: Tasting at Standard Proof Whiskey Company

The last part of the tour offers a chance to enjoy a flight tasting of Tennessee whiskey, which many reviewers found to be a highlight. The tasting at Standard Proof Whiskey Company was described as “excellent,” with some noting that eight half-ounce shots might be a little too much to start with, especially if you plan to continue drinking. The experience is more about educational tasting than just drinking, with guides explaining the nuances of each pour.

What to Expect: Practical Details

This walkable tour lasts around two hours, with a focus on storytelling and tasting. You’ll walk through Nashville’s streets, exploring both famous and lesser-known bars with a knowledgeable guide. The tour caters to adults 21 and over, with ID required to purchase alcohol. While tasting is optional, you can purchase drinks at each venue—expect bar prices to vary.

The tour is ideal for those who prefer small groups and personalized attention, as some reviews mention just their party, making the experience feel intimate. It’s conducted rain or shine, so bring an umbrella if needed, and dress appropriately—smart casual, no flip-flops or distressed clothing, as some of the vintage-inspired bars have dress codes.

The price is $49 per person, which covers the guided walk, stories, and the overall experience. Tasting costs are separate but can be bundled as part of an all-inclusive deal for better value.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides. One reviewer noted, “Tour guide was knowledgeable and entertaining! The best guide ever!” The personalized experience is a clear standout. Another guest appreciated the opportunity to ask questions in a private setting, highlighting how this added to their understanding and enjoyment.

However, some wanted a slightly different sequence—one suggested that visits to historic bars and a tasting at the end might improve the flow. Still, most found the storytelling and atmosphere captivating enough to overlook minor logistics.

The Value for Your Buck

At $49, this experience offers significant value. It’s not just a tasting but a storytelling journey that deepens your appreciation for Nashville’s rebellious spirit. The guide’s expertise and the chance to learn about the city’s darker side elevate it beyond ordinary bar crawls. If you’re into history, true crime, or whiskey, this tour offers a rich, entertaining experience without breaking the bank.

While tasting isn’t included in the base price, the option to purchase curated pours means you can tailor the experience to your preferences. It’s especially appealing for those who want a more immersive and educational outing rather than just sampling drinks.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for history buffs, true crime enthusiasts, and whiskey lovers looking for a unique way to explore Nashville. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy small groups, storytelling, and authentic local experiences. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who appreciates a little adventure and history, you’ll find this tour both fun and insightful.

It’s not ideal if you’re not 21+ or if you prefer a more relaxed, less walking-intensive experience. Also, keep in mind that the tastings are optional and cost extra, so budget accordingly if you want to indulge fully.

The Sum Up

The Bourbon & Blood Tennessee Whiskey History & Tasting Tour stands out as a compelling blend of history, storytelling, and whiskey. The knowledgeable guides, many of whom have been praised for their entertainment and depth of knowledge, make it a worthwhile experience for anyone eager to understand Nashville’s rebellious and boozy past. Its focus on hidden bars and secret histories makes it a refreshing alternative to more touristy offerings.

The tour offers great value for a two-hour experience—especially if you’re interested in the stories behind the spirits, not just the tasting itself. It’s a perfect pick for curious travelers wanting to dig into Nashville’s dark past, sip on Tennessee whiskey, and enjoy a lively, engaging walk through the city’s scandalous history.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small group, this tour promises an authentic, memorable piece of Nashville’s past. Just remember to come thirsty, dress smart, and prepare for a lively storytelling session that’s as flavorful as the whiskey in your glass.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
No, it’s only for those 21 and over, as alcohol consumption is involved and ID is required.

Are the tastings included in the price?
No, tastings are not included but can be purchased separately at each venue, with options for exclusive deals.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, walking through Nashville’s streets and visiting various historic bars.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Standard Proof Whiskey Company lobby and ends back at the same location.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Dress smart casual—no flip-flops or distressed clothing—since some bars have dress codes.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Yes, many guests have found it engaging, especially if they enjoy storytelling and whiskey.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring government-issued ID, an umbrella if rain is forecast, and gratuity for your guide if you enjoyed the experience.

Can I ask questions during the tour?
Absolutely, guides are happy to answer questions and provide personalized insights.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The information doesn’t specify; it’s a walking tour, so consider accessibility needs in advance.

In all, the Bourbon & Blood Tour offers an engaging, immersive look into Nashville’s rebellious past, with guides who really know their stuff. It’s a must-try for those curious about the city’s hidden stories and spirits.