Gatlinburg is in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. It is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty and its rich tradition of moonshine.
Today, people celebrate this spirited heritage with moonshine tours. The city offers these tours to invite visitors to taste and learn about this unique Appalachian tradition.
To ensure you have the best experience possible, here are essential tips for a safe and fun Gatlinburg moonshine tour.
Plan Your Tour Ahead of Time
Gatlinburg has several distilleries, each offering a unique moonshine-tasting experience. Research beforehand to decide which distilleries you want to visit and plan your route accordingly. Some popular options include Ole Smoky Moonshine and Doc Collier Moonshine.
Be sure to check the distillery’s hours of operation, as they may vary throughout the year. A Gatlinburg moonshine tour is a popular activity, so it’s best to book your tour in advance to secure your spot and avoid long wait times.
Book a Tour or Hire a Designated Driver
Most Gatlinburg moonshine tours are near each other. But, having a driver or booking a tour with transportation is still vital. Moonshine tasting can be strong, and a safe transportation mode is crucial.
If you’re uncomfortable driving yourself, several guided moonshine tours are available in Gatlinburg. These tours usually provide rides between distilleries. They also offer a guide to enhance your experience.
Pace Yourself and Stay Hydrated
Moonshine is known for its high alcohol content, so it’s important to pace yourself during tastings. Sip slowly and be mindful of how much you’re consuming. Drink plenty of water in between tastings to stay hydrated.
Also, most distilleries offer many flavors and options. Take your time to savor each one and avoid overindulging.
Remember, Gatlinburg’s local attractions and activities are not just moonshine tours. So, save some energy for other adventures.
Follow Distillery Guidelines
Each distillery has its own set of rules and guidelines for tastings. Respectfully follow these guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for yourself and other visitors. This may include wearing masks, taking breaks between tastings, and not bringing outside drinks onto the premises.
Following these rules shows you appreciate the craft of moonshine production. You also show appreciation for the hard work put into each batch.
Don’t Forget to Eat
While moonshine may be the highlight of a Gatlinburg tour, having a good meal before or during your tastings is essential. This will help absorb some of the alcohol and prevent any potential negative effects.
Also, many distilleries offer food pairings with their moonshine flavors. Take advantage of this chance to enhance your taste.
Have Fun and Be Respectful
Remember to have fun and be respectful during your Gatlinburg moonshine tour. This is a unique opportunity to learn about an Appalachian tradition and support local businesses. Engage with the distillery staff, ask questions, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
If you want to have fun, consider a moonshine mountain coaster to elevate your experience and enjoy the stunning views of the Smoky Mountains while getting a thrill.
Enjoying Your Gatlinburg Moonshine Tour
A Gatlinburg moonshine tour is an exciting and memorable activity for any visitor. By following these tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while immersing yourself in the rich heritage of Appalachian moonshine production. So get ready to sip, learn, and have a great time in Gatlinburg!
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