Premier Distillery & Craft Brewery Bus Tour with 9+ Tastings

Nashville isn’t just about country music and honky-tonks; it’s a city bursting with talented distillers and brewers crafting some seriously good spirits. This tour promises to whisk you through a handful of local distilleries and breweries in just three hours, offering a taste of Nashville’s flavorful side. It’s carefully designed for those who want to skip the hassle of figuring out transportation and concentrate on enjoying the drinks, the stories, and the city itself.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, the all-in-one convenience of VIP transfers between sites means you won’t need to worry about public transport or taxis. Second, the generous tasting opportunities—9 or more samples—make the price of just under $115 seem quite reasonable for a curated alcohol journey. But, a word of caution: given that the tour operates with a minimum of five participants, it’s best to book in advance to secure your spot. This tour is ideal for curious travelers eager to learn about Nashville’s local spirits or anyone looking for a fun, educational outing with good company.

Key Points

• Includes VIP transportation between 3-4 local distilleries and breweries in Nashville
• Offers 9 to 12 drink tastings—perfect for sampling a variety of local spirits
• Guided by knowledgeable staff, with stops at notable spots like Nelson’s Green Brier and Nashville Barrel Company
• Designed for small groups (maximum 13) for a more personalized experience
• Suitable for travelers aged 21 and older with valid ID
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Tour operates only if at least 5 people are booked, so early planning helps
• Provides an authentic glimpse into Nashville’s craft drink scene beyond the music

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: The Green Light Bar

The tour begins conveniently at The Green Light Bar on Hawkins Street. It’s an informal and friendly starting point—typical of Nashville’s laid-back vibe. From here, your guide, often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, will set the tone for the day. Expect a brief overview of what’s ahead and some insider tips about Nashville’s local drink culture.

Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery

Your first stop is Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery, located at Marathon Village—a spot that exudes history and character. As part of the tour, admission is included, giving you a chance to see where the magic happens. Here, you’ll learn the secrets behind their spirits, and of course, sample some of their offerings. Multiple reviews highlight the quality and authenticity of these tastings, with guests often commenting that it’s a “great choice of distilleries.”

Nashville Barrel Company

Next, the tour takes you to Nashville Barrel Company, renowned for its whiskey and bourbon. Visitors consistently rave about the experience, with one reviewer stating it was an “amazing whiskey and bourbon experience.” Expect about 30 minutes here—enough time to savor the flavors and learn about the aging process, barrel selection, and what makes Tennessee bourbon so special.

New Heights Brewing Company

The final stop is at New Heights Brewing Company, a local staple. It’s a chance to taste some excellent craft beers in a lively, welcoming environment. Again, about 30 minutes is allocated here, providing ample opportunity to sample and soak in the local beer scene. Many travelers find this stop a highlight, especially if they enjoy discovering new brews and chatting with knowledgeable staff.

The Journey’s End

The tour concludes back at Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery, but many guests often hang around afterward—some even bottle their own bourbon, as some reviews mention. It’s this personal touch and the ability to deepen the experience that makes the tour stand out.

What Travelers Say

Guests consistently praise the tour for its knowledgeable guides like Jimmy and Swade, who are described as friendly, professional, and full of interesting insights. One reviewer mentioned, “Jimmy was amazing! He is super friendly and knows Nashville,” highlighting how much a good guide can enhance the experience.

Many appreciate the small group setting, which fosters a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere. “Every tasting we had so much fun,” says one review, emphasizing the enjoyable social aspect.

The value for money also gets high marks, especially considering the multiple tastings and the included transportation. One guest noted, “It’s well worth the price,” especially for those who prefer a guided rather than DIY approach to tasting Nashville’s spirits.

A Few Considerations

While the tour is generally highly praised, a few guests mention the importance of booking early, given the minimum number requirement. Also, as the locations can vary slightly depending on availability and scheduling, some travelers might find slight differences from what’s described.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Duration: Just about 3 hours, making it a manageable addition to a day of sightseeing. It’s long enough to enjoy several tastings without feeling rushed.

Price: At $114.99 per person, it offers a good deal considering the included tastings and transportation. For craft spirits lovers or curious newcomers, it’s a worthwhile investment.

Group Size: Limited to 13 participants, which keeps things cozy and personal. Smaller groups tend to mean better interaction and more tailored commentary.

Transportation: The private VIP transfers make navigating Nashville’s distilleries and breweries hassle-free, avoiding the need to hail cabs or use transit.

Age & ID: Must be 21+ with valid ID to sample drinks—this is a legal requirement to keep in mind.

Availability: The tour only operates if at least five people are booked. Planning ahead is advisable, especially during busy seasons.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for spirits enthusiasts eager to learn about local production processes and taste a variety of Nashville’s best drinks. It’s also well-suited for small groups of friends or couples looking for a fun, guided experience that combines education with tasting. If you’re new to Nashville or simply want a safe, engaging way to explore the city’s craft scene without the hassle of planning transportation, this tour hits the mark.

However, if your main interest is music or if you prefer a more flexible, DIY approach to tasting, you might want to explore other options. Likewise, travelers with dietary restrictions or who dislike alcohol might want to consider the tasting-heavy nature of this experience.

Final Thoughts

This distillery and brewery bus tour offers a fantastic way to get acquainted with Nashville’s craft spirits scene in a relaxed, well-organized manner. With knowledgeable guides, a variety of tastings, and included transportation, it provides genuine value for those interested in spirits and local culture. The small-group format makes it more personal and engaging, and many guests leave with new knowledge, memorable flavors, and a few bottles in hand.

While it’s not a full-day adventure, those three hours are packed with flavor and insight, making it a wonderful addition to anyone’s Nashville itinerary. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon lover or just curious to see what Nashville’s craft scene has to offer, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately three hours, making it a manageable and enjoyable experience without taking up your whole day.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers VIP transportation between the sites, access to at least three distilleries and breweries, and 9 to 12 samples of local spirits and beers.

Is the tour suitable for first-time visitors?
Absolutely. It’s a great way to get an overview of Nashville’s craft drink scene and learn about local spirits from knowledgeable guides.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, since the tour requires a minimum of five people to operate, booking early guarantees your spot and helps avoid disappointment.

Can I participate if I’m under 21?
No, a valid photo ID proving you are 21 or older is required to join the tasting.

What if I cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations after that may not be refunded.

Are the locations fixed?
Locations are subject to change, but the rules guarantee at least three stops, so you’ll still enjoy a diverse tasting experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable casual attire works best. Expect some walking at each site, but the transportation is taken care of.

Is it good value for money?
Given the multiple tastings, guided commentary, and transportation, many guests feel it’s a worthwhile investment for a fun, educational experience.

Whether you’re a spirits connoisseur or just curious about Nashville’s drink scene, this tour offers a flavorful, hassle-free way to sample and learn. It’s a lively, friendly experience that captures the spirit of Nashville—literally.