Wine Me, Shine Me, Dine Me – Must do tour

If you’re eyeing a taste of Tennessee’s spirited side, the Wine Me, Shine Me, Dine Me tour promises a flavorful exploration of local distilleries, wineries, and Appalachian culture—all within a relaxed 3.5-hour window. While it’s not a comprehensive tour of every distillery in the region, it strikes a nice balance between tasting, learning, and enjoying regional cuisine. Think of it as a well-curated sampler platter of the Smoky Mountains’ beverage and culinary offerings.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on authentic local flavors—from sweet muscadine wines to playful moonshines. Plus, the opportunity for exclusive tastings and discounts makes it feel like getting insider access you wouldn’t get on your own. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that the tour can get a bit crowded, with some reviews mentioning groups of up to 17, despite the advertised limit of 12. Still, if you’re a fan of regional spirits and want a taste of Appalachian hospitality, this tour is likely to hit the spot.

This experience suits those who enjoy culinary curiosity and cultural storytelling—especially if you’re intrigued by the tradition of moonshine and regional wines. It’s a perfect fit for visitors who prefer guided insights paired with tasting stops, rather than just a drive-by sightseeing.

Key Points

• Authentic Appalachian Flavors: Experience locally-crafted moonshine and muscadine wine.
• Delicious Regional Cuisine: Enjoy a fresh, locally-sourced lunch emphasizing regional ingredients.
• Expert Guidance: Learn about the area’s history and culture from knowledgeable local guides.
• Exclusive Access: Benefit from special tastings and discounts at select distilleries.
• Balanced Itinerary: Mix of tasting, sightseeing, and cultural storytelling.
• Group Size & Flexibility: Designed for small groups, though some reviews note it can be more crowded than expected.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

When considering a tour like this, it’s helpful to understand what makes each stop special and what you should expect. The Wine Me, Shine Me, Dine Me tour begins at a convenient meeting point, Lot F behind the Residence Inn, with a quick 10-minute bus ride to your first destination. From the start, you’re greeted by hosts Mike and Jenn, whose local knowledge and friendly approach set a welcoming tone for the day.

First Stop: The Renowned Local Distillery

The day kicks off at a “grain to bottle” distillery, where you’ll get to taste a variety of spirits—vodkas, moonshines, whiskeys—each crafted from local ingredients. This isn’t just about drinking; it’s about understanding the process behind Appalachian spirits. You’ll learn what makes their products unique, including the playful Choco MOOOO-SHINE and the more potent 135-proof Straight Off the Still. One reviewer noted that the tour in this segment tends to lean more toward moonshine, which might appeal more to those interested in sweetness and novelty rather than traditional whiskey.

Lunch: A Flavorful Rest

After the spirited tasting, the group stops at a local restaurant for a fresh, regional lunch. The emphasis on locally-sourced ingredients means you’ll get a taste of true southern hospitality—think hearty, comforting dishes that highlight regional flavors. This is an appreciated break, allowing everyone to savor the food and recharge before the next round of tastings.

The Wine & Moonshine Showcases

Post-lunch, the tour continues with visits to a local winery owned by a local family. Their muscadine wine, often celebrated in country songs, offers that sweet, distinctive flavor of the South. The tasting here is more than just sipping; it’s an opportunity to discover why muscadine wines are so cherished. One guest raved about the “awesome” tastings and lunch, suggesting this part of the tour lives up to expectations.

Another highlight is the heritage moonshine distillery, located in more rustic backwoods. Here, you’ll enjoy a range of moonshines, from the playful to the potent. The exclusive tastings and special discounts elevate the experience, making it feel like a behind-the-scenes visit.

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Authenticity & Insider Access

Thanks to Mike and Jenn’s relationships with local distilleries, guests enjoy special perks not available to the general public. That means tastings of spirits you can’t find elsewhere and opportunities to purchase bottles at discounted prices. It’s these details that elevate the tour from a simple tasting to a memorable cultural experience.

Group Size & Logistics

The itinerary is designed for a small group experience, with the initial booking capped at 12, though some reviews mention larger groups of 17, which can slightly reduce intimacy. The entire journey lasts about 3.5 hours, including transportation, tastings, and lunch, making it a manageable half-day activity. The tour is wheelchair accessible, adding to its inclusive appeal.

What Sets This Tour Apart

What makes Wine Me, Shine Me, Dine Me a worthwhile choice is the combination of education and tasting in an authentic setting. You’re not just drinking; you’re learning about the history, culture, and craftsmanship behind each product. The focus on Appalachian spirits and regional wines provides a unique viewpoint into local traditions. The inclusion of a local family-owned winery and heritage moonshine distillery adds depth and authenticity.

The value of the tour lies in its guided access to exclusive tastings, discounts, and the insightful commentary from guides who love sharing their knowledge. For a modest fee, you gain an appreciation of Appalachian culture that’s both fun and educational.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy culinary experiences with a cultural twist. If you like trying local spirits, learning about regional traditions, and sampling regional cuisine—all in a small, friendly setting—this tour is a natural fit. It also suits those seeking a relaxed, informative activity that combines tasting, storytelling, and delicious food.

However, if you prefer more traditional whiskey or dislike sweet moonshine, keep in mind that some reviews mention the tour leans more toward the latter. The group size, while generally small, can sometimes be larger than expected, which might affect the intimate feel. Planning your visit on a weekday or during off-peak times could help avoid crowds.

The Sum Up

Wine Me, Shine Me, Dine Me offers a lively, flavorful look into Tennessee’s Appalachian beverage culture. It’s a well-structured experience that balances tastings with storytelling, making it ideal for curious travelers eager to understand regional traditions in a relaxed setting. The inclusion of a local winery and heritage moonshine distillery adds authenticity that larger, more generic tours can’t match.

If you’re after a fun, educational half-day exploring Appalachian spirits and cuisine, this tour delivers in both flavor and insight. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate personal guidance, exclusive tastings, and a taste of local hospitality. Be prepared for a slightly more moonshine-centric experience than classic whiskey, and you’ll come away with a greater appreciation of Tennessee’s spirited traditions.

FAQs

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, including transportation, tastings, and lunch.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Lot F behind the Residence Inn at coordinates 35.8002815246582, -83.56237030029297.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is included in the tastings?
You’ll sample a variety of vodkas, moonshines, whiskeys, and muscadine wines, with exclusive tastings and discounts.

What kind of food is served at lunch?
A fresh, regional, locally-sourced meal that highlights Appalachian flavors.

Is group size small?
The tour is designed for small groups, typically up to 12, but some reviews indicate it can be larger.

What makes this tour unique?
The focus on authentic Appalachian spirits and regional wines, plus exclusive access to certain distilleries and products.

Would this tour appeal to traditional whiskey lovers?
It leans more toward moonshine and sweet spirits, so if you prefer classic dry whiskeys, this might not be your first choice.

How do I book and pay?
Reservations can be made with the option to “Reserve now & pay later,” offering flexibility. Full payment is due later, closer to the tour date.

In all, Wine Me, Shine Me, Dine Me offers a fun, authentic peek into Tennessee’s beverage and culinary traditions, perfect for curious foodies and culture enthusiasts alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby