Uncle Nearest Green Distillery Tour from Downtown Nashville

Uncle Nearest Green Distillery Tour from Downtown Nashville: An Authentic Dive into Whiskey History

If you’re looking for an experience that combines history, craftsmanship, and a bit of Southern charm, the Uncle Nearest Green Distillery Tour from Nashville offers just that. This guided bus trip transports you from the lively heart of Music City to a place where stories of resilience, innovation, and excellent whiskey come together. We’re here to share what makes this tour a worthwhile addition to your Nashville itinerary—along with some practical tips to enhance your visit.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are its focus on Nathan Nearest Green, an often-overlooked figure who reshaped Tennessee whiskey, and the opportunity to sample award-winning Uncle Nearest whiskey right at the source. The tour’s storytelling, combined with a well-organized visit to a major black-owned distillery, offers a chance to learn, taste, and appreciate the craft on a deeper level.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the distillery is not located directly at the site where the tour begins, which can cause some initial confusion. Plus, the tour involves some walking and steps, so it may not be suitable for travelers with mobility challenges. This experience is best suited for those who value authentic stories behind their drinks, enjoy history, and want to experience a unique piece of American whiskey culture.

Key Points

• History Comes Alive: Learn about Nathan Nearest Green, the first African American Master Distiller, and his influence on Tennessee whiskey.
• Comprehensive Tour: Includes a 90-minute guided visit and whiskey tasting, offering insight into the distillation process and Green’s legacy.
• Transport and Comfort: Travel is via comfortable, air-conditioned coach, ensuring a relaxed journey from Nashville.
• Flexibility & Free Time: After the tour, enjoy exploring the distillery grounds, dining options, and purchasing bottles.
• Value for Money: For $119, the experience combines transportation, a guided tour, tastings, and free time—giving you a lot of value.
• Authentic Experience: Focus on a significant cultural story, with knowledgeable guides enhancing your understanding.

An In-Depth Look at the Nashville to Uncle Nearest Distillery Tour

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Starting Point: Downtown Nashville

The tour kicks off in the heart of Nashville, conveniently located near the Omni Hotel at 250 Rep. John Lewis Way South. Meeting in front of Bobs Steak & Chophouse, travelers avoid the hassle of waiting in rain, cold, or heat, which is a simple but appreciated touch for comfort. The departure time is 1:30 PM, giving travelers plenty of time to relax beforehand.

The Journey: Comfortable Transportation

The ride to the distillery takes about an hour, with most tours using an air-conditioned coach bus, executive bus, minibus, or van—depending on the group size. This transportation setup is ideal because it allows you to sit back, chat with fellow whiskey enthusiasts, or simply enjoy the Nashville scenery. The relaxed schedule and comfortable seating help set the tone for an engaging afternoon.

Arrival at the Distillery: A Lesson in Legacy

Arriving around 2:30 PM, you’ll notice that the distillery is part of a larger complex, and some parts of the operation may not be fully operational or open for viewing. One reviewer mentioned that “the actual distillery where the whiskey is made is not at the site,” which is important to note. Still, the grounds are inviting, and the guided tour takes you through the history of Nathan Nearest Green, a man born into slavery who eventually became a master distiller.

The 90-Minute Guided Tour: Whiskey and History

The core of the experience is a 90-minute guided walk through the distillery, which includes an in-depth talk about Nathan Nearest Green’s life and his pioneering role in Tennessee whiskey-making. You’ll learn how Green perfected the Lincoln County Process—filtering whiskey through sugar maple charcoal—and how this process distinguishes Tennessee whiskey from bourbon.

Participants rave about the guides’ knowledge and storytelling abilities. As one reviewer noted, “Brent did an awesome job! The tour was fun and informative.” The stories are engaging, emphasizing Green’s role in whiskey history and his apprenticeship with Jack Daniel himself.

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Whiskey Tasting: Savor the Flavors

Following the educational tour, you’ll get to taste Uncle Nearest’s award-winning whiskey. The tasting segment is approximately one shot’s worth, allowing you to appreciate the flavor profiles and craftsmanship. Several reviews mention that the whiskey is excellent, and the brand is one of the fastest growing in the country, adding a sense of connection to contemporary whiskey culture.

Free Time and Exploration

After the tasting, you have time to explore the grounds at your leisure. Options include visiting the on-site Barrel House BBQ, enjoying a drink at the Humble Baron (the world’s longest bar), or browsing the visitor center for bottles of Uncle Nearest whiskey—don’t forget to ask about their exclusive releases. One guest commented that they wished they’d known about the limited eating options beforehand, which is worth noting if you’re hungry.

Wrapping Up: Homeward Bound

The return trip departs around 5:30 PM, arriving back in Nashville by roughly 6:30 PM. This timing leaves you in perfect shape for dinner or evening activities, making the tour a manageable day trip without feeling rushed.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At $119 per person, this experience packs in quite a bit. Transportation, a guided tour, whiskey tasting, and free exploration time provide a comprehensive glimpse into an important story while also letting you enjoy some of the best whiskey Nashville has to offer. The price point is reasonable considering the depth of information and the quality of the whiskey tasted.

What the Tour Means for You

Travelers who appreciate history and authentic storytelling will find this tour especially rewarding. Learning about Nathan Nearest Green, a pioneering African American figure in whiskey, adds a meaningful layer to your visit. For those with a curiosity about whiskey-making processes, the guided tour offers clear insights into how Uncle Nearest whiskey is crafted and what sets it apart.

Practical Tips

• Bring your ID or passport for the tasting, as valid government-issued IDs are required.
• Dress appropriately for weather, as tours run rain or shine.
• Be prepared for some walking and steps, so wear comfortable shoes.
• No bathrooms on bus, so plan accordingly.
• If you’re hungry, consider eating before the tour or after, as food options at the distillery might be limited or impacted by events like weddings.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adults over 21 who enjoy whiskey, history, or cultural stories. It’s ideal for those looking to learn about lesser-known figures in American spirits history, and for visitors seeking a well-organized, comfortable day trip from Nashville. It’s also a good pick for whiskey lovers eager to taste a product with a compelling backstory.

Final Thoughts

The Uncle Nearest Green Distillery Tour offers a blend of educational storytelling, whiskey tasting, and cultural significance in a relaxed, accessible package. The guides’ knowledge and the chance to explore a prominent black-owned business add depth to what might otherwise be just another distillery visit.

While some parts of the operation aren’t fully operational or visible during the tour, the emphasis on Nathan Nearest Green’s legacy makes this experience more meaningful than simply tasting whiskey. For travelers seeking a thoughtful, engaging, and flavorful excursion outside Nashville’s city limits, this tour provides excellent value and authentic insights.

In the end, it’s perfect for history buffs, whiskey enthusiasts, and those eager to support diverse stories in American spirits. With its balance of comfort, education, and flavor, it’s a memorable way to connect Nashville’s past to its present.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation to and from Nashville is included, using an air-conditioned coach or similar vehicle, making the journey comfortable.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from downtown Nashville, specifically near Bobs Steak & Chophouse at 250 Rep. John Lewis Way South, at 1:30 PM.

How long is the distillery tour?
The guided tour of the distillery lasts about 90 minutes, providing plenty of time to learn about Nathan Nearest Green and whiskey making.

What is included in the tasting?
The tasting includes a sample of Uncle Nearest whiskey, typically about one shot’s worth, giving you the chance to appreciate its flavor.

Can I explore the grounds after the tour?
Absolutely. You’ll have free time to explore, visit the on-site restaurant, or purchase bottles of whiskey.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility challenges?
Since you’ll be walking and ascending steps, it’s not recommended for those with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID or passport for the tasting, dress appropriately for weather, and wear comfortable shoes.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours run rain or shine. If weather conditions cancel the experience, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a flexible option for travel plans.

This tour blends history, culture, and the joy of sampling some of the finest whiskey in the country—an experience that will enrich your Nashville visit with stories you’ll remember long after the last sip.

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