best distillery tours in nashville tn

THE 10 BEST Nashville Distillery Tours

Distillery tours in nashville.

• Private Tours
• Bar, Club & Pub Tours
• Distillery Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• Downtown Nashville
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Tennessee Whiskey Tours

2. Mint Julep Experiences - Nashville

3. Tipsy Tours

4. Nashville Barrel Co

5. Barrels Of Fun Nashville Distillery & Winery Tours

6. Whiskey Trail Tours

7. Legendary Tours

8. Broadway & Backroads

9. DeVine Gourmet Tours

10. Real Deal Neil

11. Driverseat Middle Tennessee

12. Greetings from Tennessee Tours & Trips

13. Trove Hospitality

14. Tour Nashville

15. Driving Nashville

16. Sedan on Demand

17. All In Boutique Transportation

18. Daylit Tour Experiences

19. Noire Nashville

20. Real Nashville Tours

What travelers are saying.

• Mint Julep Experiences - Nashville
• Tipsy Tours
• Barrels Of Fun Nashville Distillery & Winery Tours
• Legendary Tours
• Greetings from Tennessee Tours & Trips
• Nashville Barrel Co
• Tennessee Whiskey Tours

Home » North America » USA » Tennessee » Eight Must-Visit Nashville Distilleries

Eight Must-Visit Nashville Distilleries

By Author Laura Longwell

Posted on Last updated: October 24, 2023

The history of distilled spirits in Tennessee is a long one. For well over a century, moonshiners have been making the good stuff in the hills, dodging the long arm of the law, and passing their recipes down through the generations. Building on that heritage, today’s Nashville distilleries come in all shapes and sizes.

Some distilleries in Nashville thrive on innovation, making uncommon flavors and blends to keep customers coming back. Others draw on proven family recipes and strong Tennessee pride to make the best whiskey (and more) this part of the South has ever seen. Either way, there are a lot of great spirits to try and fun distilleries to visit on a trip to Nashville . These are some of our favorites.

Corsair Distillery

Nelson’s green brier distillery, ole smoky distillery, pennington distilling co., nashville craft distillery, leiper’s fork distillery, jack daniel’s distillery, cascade hollow distilling co..

Corsair Distillery is always pushing the envelope in craft spirits. Founded by childhood friends Darek Bell and Andrew Webber, the Nashville distillery has grown tremendously over the last decade, and we’re always happy when we see their whiskey on the shelf across the US and abroad.

Constantly innovating and trying new things, Corsair has one of the broadest product lines we’ve seen in a craft distillery anywhere, with more than 25 spirits on offer at different times of the year.

Corsair has traditional spirits from gin to at multiple types of whiskey. They’re also known for their more adventurous products like red absinthe, and vanilla bean vodka. But what really persuaded us to visit Corsair Distillery was their unique genever , a gin-like spirit that we first discovered on a trip to Amsterdam, where genever has been made for over 400 years.

Known for experimentation and crafting a damn fine cocktail, Corsair Distillery’s award-winning products are available at their two Nashville distilleries and around the US. A tour here is a fun date night idea . See their website for information or just stop in for a sip.

History is at the heart of Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery in Nashville. Brothers Andy and Charlie Nelson have resurrected the family whiskey business that was once located in nearby Greenbrier, Tennessee, before the days of Prohibition.

In the late 1880s, Andy and Charlie’s great-great-great grandfather Charles Nelson was even more popular than Jack Daniel, making the top-selling Tennessee whiskey in the world. Charles passed away in 1891, and his wife Louisa took over. She ran the business successfully for nearly 20 years, but Prohibition put an end to the family’s good fortunes.

One hundred years after the first Nelson distillery closed, Andy and Charlie re-formed the family business based on the original recipes that made it so popular. The history and family pride is evident in everything about the distillery.

Now, the Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery product line features a variety of offerings, including whiskeys, bourbons, and sherries – a few named after Nashville’s famous Belle Meade plantation . You’ll also find a product in honor of Louisa, a coffee caramel pecan liqueur that’s named after her.

Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery offers tours and tastings at their warehouse and distillery on Clinton Street where you can even see some of the original bottles from the 1880s.

Ole Smoky Distillery in Nashville isn’t just a distillery—it’s an experience. The location at 6 th & Peabody is 30,000 square feet, including Ole Smoky and Yee-Haw Brewing Co. in addition to a taco shop and a food truck featuring local favorite Prince’s Hot Chicken. With live music, indoor and outdoor spaces, and sports games on the giant movie screen, you could practically spend all day here.

The focus during my visit was the offerings at Ole Smoky , which bills itself as the leading craft distiller in the US. Drawing on the heritage of the moonshiners in the Smoky Mountains, Ole Smoky makes a cornucopia of over 40 types of brightly-colored moonshine and flavored whiskeys from a 100-year-old recipe.

Many of Ole Smoky’s dozens of flavors are available for tasting at the large bar. I opted for the full tasting, which included 8 moonshines (one was a surprisingly good moonshine-soaked pickle) and 2 flavored whiskeys along with a Yee Haw beer. Although it sounds like a huge amount of alcohol, the tastings are 1-2 sips each, so it’s not over-the-top.

Ole Smoky is a place for people who are looking for a casual, fun time. Don’t expect to discuss mash bills, angel’s share, or how long a product is aged. Just lean in and try the apple pie moonshine (there’s a reason it’s the most popular) or the salty caramel whiskey. Many flavors are also available in cocktails at the bar.

Established in 2011, Pennington Distilling Co. is located in Nashville’s Nations neighborhood. The grain-to-glass distillery has aged and clear spirits along with other products.

We loved their Davidson Reserve Tennessee Whiskey, which is filtered through maple charcoal and aged a minimum of four years. With flavors of caramel and toasted marshmallows, it’s the first locally distilled small batch Tennessee whiskey since Prohibition, a point of pride in a town that takes its whiskey very seriously.

Pennington’s flagship brand Whisper Creek Tennessee Sipping Cream goes well beyond the expected. The cream liqueur combines the characteristics of Tennessee whiskey with caramel, molasses, and pecan favors. Think Bailey’s meets Jack Daniel’s…if that delicious concoction were 40 proof. Even its bottle is unique, combining the look of a classic whiskey jug and an old-fashioned milk bottle.

Pennington Distilling Co. also produces two vodka lines—Pickers Vodka and Walton’s Vodka. Pickers is distilled 11 times and comes in original and several flavors infused with actual fruit. Walton’s Finest Vodka is made with 100% Tennessee red winter wheat and cut with Tennessee limestone water.

Tours and tastings at Pennington Distilling Co. are offered Thursday through Saturday.

Nashville Craft Distillery is a laid-back place to sample some familiar spirits and try a few you may not have had before. Whether you take a tour, have a tasting, or stop in for a cocktail, the staff will tell you everything you want to know about the products, which is great for people like me who want to know all the details.

Founder and distiller Bruce Boeko—a former DNA lab director—shifted his scientific focus from biology to the slightly more fun fermentation and distilling, opening Nashville Craft in 2016. Along with the distiller team, he has created a portfolio of interesting spirits and liqueurs.  

Everything at Nashville Craft Distillery is made from scratch. Whether they’re made from sorghum, honey, or grain, the small-batch spirits all start in-house with a focus on local and regional ingredients.

Naked Biscuit and Golden Biscuit (the barrel-aged version of Naked) are smooth sorghum spirits that you can try straight or in a cocktail. The gin and whiskey offerings are also excellent. My favorite product was the spiced honey liqueur, which tastes just like it sounds with a hint of sweetness and the flavors of fall.

A visit to Leiper’s Fork feels like a step back in time to the late 1800s—1897, to be specific. That’s when the Bottled-in-Bond Act was passed, which set strict standards that assured consumers that their whiskey was pure. Leiper’s Fork’s Bottled in Bond products are handmade and small batch, which is a badge of honor for them. They even use corn grown on the owner’s own farm.

A tour of their facility in Franklin takes visitors through the production and unique blending process. You also get to see their 500-gallon Scottish pot still that was custom-built for the distillery.

The highlight of the tour is the tasting that takes place in a 200-year-old cabin (can you tell history and authenticity is a theme here?) We got to try three types—bourbon, rye, and Tennessee whiskey. Leiper’s Fork uses a sweet mash fermentation process that imparts a mellow character, which is evident in the tasting.

Check out their special events that range from wine pairing dinners and concerts to cigar nights and haunted tours.

If you’re looking to venture a little farther, Lynchburg, Tennessee, is only about 90 minutes from Nashville. This tiny, dry town is the home of the top-selling American whiskey in the world—Jack Daniel’s. Every year, Lynchburg attracts over 300,000 visitors looking to see how Tennessee whiskey is made, making the distillery one of the top attractions in Tennessee .

At the Jack Daniel’s distillery , visitors can see how craftsmanship and attention to detail have built a fine brand and drinks that people around the world swear by. A distillery tour here is also a walk through the 158-year history of Jack Daniel—the man and his eponymous products.

On a tour, you’ll see the grain, the distillation process, and the 10-foot-tall stacks of sugar maple charcoal that help set Jack Daniel’s apart. All this is before the white whiskey gets its color and flavor from handcrafted toasted oak barrels built on-site.

There are several different tour options, and we chose the one that includes a tasting of the five core Jack Daniel’s products, including the Tennessee Whiskey, Tennessee Honey, and Gentleman Jack. It’s an informative and entertaining tour even if you’re not a big whiskey drinker–we both came away as fans.

Cascade Hollow Distilling Co. is probably more familiar to most people at the makers of George Dickel Tennessee Whisky. Despite the enormous popularity of their products, a visit here doesn’t feel like a visit to a large corporation. Instead, it feels like a country cabin in the Tennessee hills. There is no cell reception or traffic—just great whiskey.  

Just over an hour from Nashville, a tour at Cascade Hollow traces the story of George Dickel, a German immigrant who became a successful merchant and ultimately one of the top whiskey makers in the US. You’ll learn how his wife Augusta helped the company prosper after George died and the unique way it kept going despite Prohibition.

Today, Cascade Hollow prides itself on its products that are “handmade the hard way”—filtered with sugar maple charcoal that is burned and transported by hand in the hollow. You’ll learn about the process and see the fermentation and distilling as it happens at one of the top distilleries in Tennessee.

The hour-long tour ends with a tasting of four whiskies ranging from George Dickel No. 1—an unaged white corn whisky—to their high-end George Dickel Barrel Select, which is aged for at least 10 years. If you’re feeling brave, you can also try the variety aged in Tabasco barrels for a bit of a kick.

We were the guests of Jack Daniel’s. All opinions of the flavorful and barrel-aged are our own.

Laura Longwell is an award-winning travel blogger and photographer. Since founding Travel Addicts in 2008, she has written hundreds of articles that help over 3 million people a year get the most out of their travel. In that time, she has visited nearly 60 countries on 5 continents, often returning to favorite destinations over and over again. She has a deep love of history, uncovering unexpected attractions, and trying all the good food a place has to offer.

In addition to Travel Addicts, Laura runs a site about her hometown of Philadelphia—Guide to Philly—which chronicles unique things to do and places to see around southeastern Pennsylvania. Her travel tips and advice appear across the web.

Share this post:

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Wednesday 8th of September 2021

Honestly don't know how you didn't add Uncle Nearest distillery since you added Jack Daniels to this list??‍♀️

Laura Longwell

Thursday 9th of September 2021

We would love to get there as soon as we can. Uncle Nearest not only makes excellent whiskey but has a great, historically important story. The distillery has existed for less than 2 years and has been closed for more than half that time, so it's made it impossible for us to visit yet. Hopefully we can make it on our next trip to Tennessee.

Sunday 22nd of January 2017

As a born-and-bred Tennessean—I grew up 15 minutes from Jack—you got everything right! You only missed one: George Dickel, which is actually tastier and just as historic as JD!

Well now I have something to add to my list for my next visit!

Tuesday 20th of December 2016

I do love whiskey. My first was getting to know the Scotch Whisky when I was in Edinburgh. Ever since, whisky (or whiskey) became my go-to drink! I've been to Nashville but not distilleries. I have to plan a trip!

It took us awhile to develop a taste for whiskey, but practice makes perfect :) And Nashville is a great place to practice!

THE 10 BEST Nashville Distillery Tours

Distillery tours in nashville.

• Private Tours
• Bar, Club & Pub Tours
• Distillery Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• Downtown Nashville
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Tennessee Whiskey Tours

2. Mint Julep Experiences - Nashville

3. Tipsy Tours

4. Nashville Barrel Co

5. Barrels Of Fun Nashville Distillery & Winery Tours

6. Whiskey Trail Tours

7. Legendary Tours

8. Broadway & Backroads

9. DeVine Gourmet Tours

10. Real Deal Neil

11. Driverseat Middle Tennessee

12. Greetings from Tennessee Tours & Trips

13. Trove Hospitality

14. Tour Nashville

15. Driving Nashville

16. Sedan on Demand

17. All In Boutique Transportation

18. Daylit Tour Experiences

19. Noire Nashville

20. Real Nashville Tours

What travellers are saying.

• Mint Julep Experiences - Nashville
• Tipsy Tours
• Barrels Of Fun Nashville Distillery & Winery Tours
• Legendary Tours
• Greetings from Tennessee Tours & Trips
• Nashville Barrel Co
• Tennessee Whiskey Tours

STELLA Says

You have to be at least 21 to continue.

Tennessee Whiskey Trail Tours

Create your own Nashville whiskey tour and explore the best distilleries in Lynchburg, Franklin, Thompson’s Station, Nashville, and more!

Winery Tours

Visit locally-owned family wineries in Tennessee, stop for lunch, shop, and take in the sights of Nashville!

Brewery Tours

Create your own Nashville Brewery Tour and ride in style as you see the city of Nashville!

Eats & Treats

Visit Nashville’s Top Eateries!

Music City has become one of the most popular travel and sightseeing destinations. Check out the breweries, the Jack Daniels Distillery, food, culture, history, and of course the music. We’ll take you to popular attractions in Nashville, TN, and custom, private tours of your choice. Our distillery tours are great way to travel from Nashville to Lynchburg, Franklin, and more. Choose the vehicle that fits your group then tell us when you want to go and what your interests are. We will take care of the rest! From $250 for two people and two distilleries to a group of 25, the more in your party the less it costs each person. Perfect for bachelor and bachelorette parties in Nashville. Our Nashville tours rates are based on the vehicle you prefer and the time on tour, not a per person price, so the more that you play the less you pay! Experience Nashville your way, the right way! Our vehicles in Nashville range from 2 to 50 passengers. You must be 21 years or older to be in our vehicles.

Create your own distillery tour in Nashville or book a Jack Daniels Distillery Tour today!

Distilleries

Jack Daniel’s Distillery Tours Lynchburg, TN

Leiper’s Fork Distillery Tours Franklin, TN

Company Distilling (ex-H Clark Distillery) Tours Thompson’s Station, TN

Pennington Distillery Tours Nashville, TN

Corsair Distillery Tours Nashville, TN

Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery Tours Nashville, TN

George Dickel Distillery Tours Tullahoma, TN

We’ll Even Help You Plan Your Trip

Our tour specialists will give you ideas and information to help you plan the perfect night out, corporate event, or just a group of friends wanting to have a good time with a little Tennessee shine in a luxury chauffeured vehicle.

Vehicle Options

Sedans Up to 3 passengers

SUVs Up to 6 passengers

Stretch Limousines Up to 8 passengers

Sprinter Limousines Up to 12 passengers

Executive Sprinter Up to 14 passengers

Mini Bus Up to 50 passengers

Limousine Coach Up to 28 passengers

Motorcoach Up to 56 passengers

Client Reviews

We know that a special event needs to be flawless and we want you to know that you are making the right transportation choice with us. Don't take our word for it, see for yourself what our clients have to say:

Overall Rating

More reviews

- Courtney L.

Visit Nashville

Nashville Hotel Guide

If you’re headed to the music capital of the world, you might want to plan where you’re staying first. From downtown to Opryland, there are plenty of incredible places to stay in Nashville. Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels or vacation rentals, our guide is a great place to start your search.

Nashville Shopping

There’s no really designated shopping district in Nashville, but there are tons of great neighborhoods with incredible retail offerings. From the malls in Green Hills to furniture shopping in Franklin, there are plenty of places to start your shopping spree in Nashville.

Nashville Landmarks

While they call it Music City, there’s so much to Nashville that may surprise you. There’s more than great music, there’s s a lot of great history in the city (as well as quite a few historic music venues). From the Parthenon to Grand Ole Opry House, there are plenty of sites to see.

Concert Venues

Nashville is also known as Music City and it’s for very good reason. There’s absolutely no shortage of live music in Nashville. From iconic landmarks to honky tonks to stadiums, there’s a venue for any music taste.

Whiskey Trail Tours Safety

Sightseeing Safely with Whiskey Trail Tours

Whiskey Trail Tours is thoughtfully preparing for this next phase as we adapt our business to a ‘new normal’.

Our priority has always been the health and safety of our customers and our team. In order to provide a healthier environment for you, as well as our staff, we plan to gradually expand operations while maintaining the safest environment possible following these measures:

All vehicles are wiped down before and after each trip with EPA approved antiviral disinfectant.

All vehicles are cleaned and sanitized daily with a hospital-grade antiviral disinfectant fogger.

Chauffeurs will wear masks and gloves when necessary as recommended by the CDC.

Capacity will be limited to ensure safe social distancing is maintained.

Your chauffeur will open doors for you, but will not shake hands with you.

The vehicle fan is set to fresh air only. No re-circulated air will be allowed.

Tour distilleries, wineries, breweries, and the city of Nashville in a private, fully sanitized, chauffeured vehicle.

Jack Daniels Distillery Tour Vehicle Options Contact Us FAQ Privacy Policy

Distilleries Wineries Breweries Visit Nashville

Belle Meade Bourbon Experience

Quick Details

• User Ages: Ages 21+
• Hour Glass Duration: 60 minutes

Join Our Whiskey Tasting Tour in Nashville!

Discover the world of Belle Meade Bourbon and indulge in a truly unique experience. Take a moment to relax in our historic Ice House and learn the art of savoring a bourbon neat. Immerse yourself in the history of whiskey as you sip on a delicious cocktail and finish your journey by learning to craft a signature beverage with the guidance of our expert bourbon stewards.

Please Note

• Ticket sales end 60 minutes prior to each start time.
• This event does not include a tour of the mansion.
• Please arrive 15 minutes before your reservation at Belle Meade Historic Site and Winery.  Simply check in at our Visitor’s Center, collect your wristbands, and head to the Ice House. Doors open at the scheduled reservation time. Additionally, guests may choose to explore the grounds, visit Belle Meade Meat & Three, or purchase tickets for other experiences.

Late Arrivals

• This guided experience is 1 hour and every moment of that time is filled with history, knowledge and tasting. To reduce disruption to an event in progress, late arrivals are strongly discouraged and may not be accommodated.

Cancellation & Refunds

• Our 24 hour cancellation policy allows for a full refund to our guests when we are notified more than 24 hours in advance of your booked experience. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable. For questions or concerns, call (615) 356-6164.

Related Options

• Hour Glass 45 minutes
• User All Ages

Mansion Tour

Discover history with a guided tour of our 1853 Greek Revival Mansion. After the tour, enjoy a complimentary wine tasting and explore our 30+ acres!

• TASTE 5 LOCAL WINES
• Hour Glass 60 minutes
• User Ages 21+

Wine & Food Pairing

Enjoy an in-depth wine and food pairing experience at the heart of a 200 year old southern grounds. Sample five wines, chocolate, cheese, cured meats and more.

Wine, Bourbon and Food Pairing Experience

Embark on an enchanting journey where the worlds of wine and bourbon intertwine. Prepare to indulge your senses and elevate your palate to new heights!

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

15 Best Distilleries and Breweries in Nashville, According to Local Experts

Here are the top Nashville breweries and distilleries to visit on your next trip to Music City.

Courtesy of Black Abbey Brewing Company

Nashville, Tennessee is known for honky tonks and an abundance of bachelor and bachelorette parties, but it also has a hum of creativity that radiates far beyond Broadway. You’ll find it in the music scene, of course — as well as its growing list of stellar hotels . The spirit of innovation also drives the city’s fashion, art, culinary, craft beer, and spirits industries. The latter two, in particular, have experienced significant growth in recent years — solidifying Nashville as one of the best cities in the U.S. to grab a drink. 

“Nashville has seen a boom in craft breweries, with new establishments popping up pretty regularly. These breweries often experiment with various beer styles, creating a rich and diverse craft beer culture,” says Ashley Wyman, food and beverage manager at Sidebar Nashville . Distilleries followed suit, she adds, “The local distillery scene has been growing, with numerous small-batch and artisanal distilleries producing a wide range of spirits, including my personal favorites: whiskey, mead, and gin.”

While you’ll run into a few breweries and distilleries in downtown Nashville, many of them are found outside the typical tourist areas. “One of the coolest parts about checking out Nashville’s distilleries and breweries is that it takes you away from the main drag of Broadway, [allowing] you to see other neighborhoods where the people of Nashville actually live,” says Akinde Olagundoye , brand ambassador for Filthy Food and bar manager at Humble Baron , AB , Desert Rose , and One 19 . “There you can find the culture of the city, and the products really showcase the talent of the people.” If you aren’t sure where to start, Wyman suggests exploring East Nashville, The Nations, and Wedgewood-Houston.

To help you plan out a beer and spirits tour of Music City, we tapped a few locals — all of whom work in the food and beverage industry — for their recommendations for the best distilleries and breweries in the Nashville area. 

Related: T+L’s Guide to Nashville

Nelson's Green Brier Distillery

Courtesy of Nelson's Green Brier

The history of Nelson's Green Brier Distillery dates back to the 1800s, when Charles Nelson, the great-great-great-grandfather of the current owners, found success making Tennessee whiskey in pre-prohibition America. Today, Andy and Charlie Nelson combine history — they sell Nelson’s Green Brier Tennessee Whiskey, made with their family’s original recipe — and modernity in their Marathon Village location. Olagundoye describes the team behind the distillery as “community-oriented and down-to-earth,” and Wyman notes they offer “an amazing tour of their facilities.” Just be sure to book in advance; the weekend tours tend to sell out.

Bearded Iris Brewing

Courtesy of Bearded Iris Brewing

“ Bearded Iris , in my opinion, is the best brewery in Nashville,” says Wilson Brannock, managing partner at Noko . Olagundoye mentions that their IPAs are “palatable to people [who] are more averse to hops,” and Wyman says their “creative” approach to brewing results in a “diverse and exciting beer lineup.” The Germantown taproom is the original location, and it’s here you’ll find the main production facility and plenty of patio space to sip on a Queen Bee or Double Agent, among other beers on tap. 

Ole Smoky Distillery

Courtesy of Ole Smokey Distillery

It’s all about moonshine at Ole Smoky Distillery , which serves up flavors like butter pecan, blackberry, and apple pie. The brand has a few distilleries around Tennessee, but the Nashville location is found at the 6th & Peabody complex. You don’t need a reservation for tastings, but you will need one for guided tours. The tour grants you behind-the-scenes access to the distillery followed by a sample of 13 different moonshines and whiskies. 

Corsair Distillery and Taproom

Courtesy of Corsair Distillery

Experimentation is at the heart of Corsair Distillery and Taproom . Founded by childhood friends Darek Bell and Andrew Webber, Corsair aims to put “Nashville in a bottle” with its line of whiskies, gin, and craft beers. Guided tours and tastings, which can be booked online, are offered every day. Rick Margaritov, owner of Present Tense and Hippo Bodega in Nashville, says Corsair is definitely “worth a stop, not just for a specialty cocktail (or two) at their taproom bar, but for a stroll through the newly activated shopping arcade within the old auto factory.”

Southern Grist Brewing Company

Courtesy of Southern Grist Brewing Co

Olagundoye describes Southern Grist Brewing Company as the “sour king.” “They are always releasing fun, seasonal, and adventurous sours that are perfect for warm weather, and really all year round.” The East Nashville taproom opened in 2016, and the team has spent the last seven years creating over 1,000 different beers — including a blueberry cobbler sour ale, a mango upside-down cake IPA, and Southern Crisp, a classic pilsner. For Brannock, Southern Grist tops the list thanks to its “cool outdoor setup [and] a large selection of beers.” Plus, he notes they have zero-proof options as well.

Pennington Distilling Co.

Courtesy of Pennington Distillery

The spirits portfolio of Pennington Distilling Co. comes highly recommended by Nashvillians. “They make Davidson Reserve, which is a Tennessee whiskey that probably doesn’t get as much shine as it deserves. They also make Pickers Vodka, an ode to guitar players and live music in Nashville,” says Olagundoye. The craft distillery’s other offerings include Whisper Creek Tennessee Sipping Cream and Walton’s Finest Vodka .  “Each one is meticulously crafted to meet the highest standards of a fast-paced music city made for drinking,” says Wyman. Olagundoye describes the Nations neighborhood spot as a “fun and welcoming space,” and tours can be reserved Tuesday through Sunday. 

Related: 30 Best Things to Do in Nashville

Nearest Green Distillery

Courtesy of Nearest Green Distillery

Nearest Green Distillery is a little less than an hour from Nashville in Shelbyville — but it still makes the list thanks to its important industry contributions as well as its accolades. “It’s a beautiful sight, rich with important Black and women’s history,” says Olagundoye. Victoria Eady Butler is the great-great-grandaughter of Nathan “Nearest” Green, an enslaved and later emancipated man who taught Jack Daniel the craft of whiskey distillation. The distillery’s whiskey has received a significant number of awards over the years, and Eady Butler was the first person to be awarded the title of “Master Blender of the Year” by Whisky Magazine for two years running.

Tennessee Brew Works

Courtesy of Tennessee Brew Works

Tennessee Brew Works has a few things going for it: a focus on natural ingredients, beautifully designed graphics (take a look at their current beer lineup ), and a location featuring live music, happy hour specials, and guided brewery tours. Weather permitting, find a spot on the rooftop and enjoy one of the “headliners” on tap — or a seasonal beverage that catches your eye — paired with Nashville hot chicken or the brewery’s Five Beer Burger.

Leiper’s Fork Distillery

Courtesy of Leiper’s Fork Distillery

“ Leiper’s Fork Distillery down in Franklin, just 15 minutes south of Nashville, is a beautiful spot off-the-grid to hit when coming to town,” says Margaritov. The small-batch whiskey distillery features a 200-year-old tasting room, where visitors can sample the made-in-house spirits — including Bourbon Bottled In Bond, Leiper’s Fork Straight Rye Whiskey, and Tennessee Whiskey Single Barrel Cask Strength. Tours and tastings can be booked online .

Yazoo Brewing Company

Courtesy of Yazoo Brewing Company

“ Yazoo Brewing Company is one of Nashville's most renowned craft breweries,” says Wyman. “Their commitment to using quality ingredients and traditional brewing methods has earned them a strong reputation among locals and visitors alike for the past 20 years, which is why we recommend them to our guests when out-of-towners ask.” The brewery first opened its doors in 2003, but it wasn’t until 2010 that it moved to its current location in the Gulch. If you like a straightforward, solid beer, Yazoo may be the perfect fit; Olagundoye says the beer is “good and easy,” with “no pretense, [and] no frills.” His favorite? The Hop Perfect IPA.

Fait La Force Brewing

Evan Webb/Fait La Force

Rules are far and few between at Fait La Force Brewing . If you’re feeling peckish, you can order from their pub fare menu (think sausage rolls and Belgian frites), grab pizza from neighboring Il Forno, or bring your own food. Dogs are welcome, too. “The brewery outdoor space itself is a unique hang-out spot up on Chestnut Hill with a killer view of the downtown Nashville skyline,” says Margaritov. As far as beer offerings, you’ll find a variety on tap — everything from Italian-style pilsners to a Belgian-style saison.

Nashville Barrel Company

Courtesy of Nashville Barrell Company

Nashville Barrel Company prefers to lead guests on “experiences” rather than tours. For $25, you can swing by the distillery (no reservation necessary) for a flight from the tasting bar. The $50 Premium Tasting Experience includes a guided tour through some Nashville Barrel Company staples, as well as a few “surprise tastings.” If you want to go all out, reserve the Straight From the Barrel Experience. As a group of 12, you’ll sample from four different barrels, eventually picking your favorite and bringing a bottle of it home.

Blackstone Brewing Co.

© Thomas Solinsky / Blackstone Brewing Company

Blackstone Brewing Co. claims the title of Nashville’s oldest brewery, with its roots dating back to 1994. Its taphouse, located just north of Midtown, has 16 beers on tap — which pair perfectly with the food offerings served out of the brewery’s 1989 Ford school bus (known as the “B-Stone Bus”). If you want to try the St. Charles Porter, Chaser Pale, or HopJack IPA, make sure to avoid Mondays, when both the taproom and bus are closed. 

Black Abbey Brewing Company

“ Black Abbey is the OG here and has my heart,” says Margaritov. “These guys were early homebrewers in the late ‘90s and became pioneers at the beginning of the craft beer renaissance, and they still make killer Belgian ales that are comparable, if not better, than some of the most revered Belgian breweries.” The Berry Hill brewery and taproom, known as Fellowship Hall, stick to the brand’s theme, nodding to the past at every touch point. Its seven handmade farmhouse tables harken back to bygone eras and provide plenty of space for visitors to bond over their beverages. Speaking of drinking, Black Abbey brews year-round, seasonal, and specialty beer. No matter when you visit, you can be sure to find its flagship beer, The Rose.

Honeytree Meadery

Courtesy of Honeytree Meadery

“While mead is not the traditional ‘spirit’ consumed in Nashville by any means, I thought Honeytree Meadery deserved to be on this list because [they] are true lovers and educators of their craft,” says Wyman. “A visit to Honeytree Meadery is an immersive experience, allowing guests to witness the harmony between local nature and sustainable craft firsthand.” The indoor-outdoor meadery focuses on sustainable practices, and it’s open to the public seven days a week — with a trivia night every Sunday from 7 to 9 p.m.

The 10 Best Distilleries In Nashville

By: Author Amar Hussain

Posted on Last updated: July 6, 2023

Moonshine and whiskey are staples of the South. Luckily there are spots all across Music City that feature fresh local-made craft alcohol. 

Big Machine Brewery + Distillery 

Corsair distillery + taproom , nashville barrel co , nashville craft distillery , nelson’s green brier distillery , pennington distillery co , southern collective spirit co , standard proof whiskey co , tennessee legend , 6th + peabody , final thoughts, the best distilleries in nashville .

The perfect place to celebrate any occasion is right in downtown Nashville.

Big Machine Brewery + Distillery tasting room is the perfect place to indulge in crafted cocktails from spirits made in-house.

Here you’ll get to enjoy everything a distillery has to offer, including fun cocktails, tours of the facility, and live music. In their gift shop, you can even purchase souvenirs and their famous spirits to take home with you.

When you want to see how it’s made, take their 45-minute tour, which includes tastings and even the opportunity to bottle your own. Big Machine Brewery + Distillery is the perfect taste of locally-crafted liquor. 

• Location: 122 3rd Avenue S, Nashville, TN 37201

This laid-back facility offers tons of crafted beverages to choose from, including American and German-style beers and spirits.

Corsair Distillery + Taproom features a brewery and micro-distillery on-site, where they produce everything they serve at the bar.

Take a tour for 30 minutes of the facility, where you’ll get to see how everything is made and enjoy samples along the way.

You’ll find this space within the Marathon Village, and they even include a restaurant on-site for a bite to go with your drinks.

The menu offers guided spirits tastings which are a must to get a taste of their lineup. Corsair Distillery + Taproom is a great option for a date night, group gathering, or any occasion. 

• Location: 1200 Clinton St #110, Nashville, TN 37203

With 25 years of experience between the two owners, these spirits are made with passion and crafted to perfection.

Nashville Barrel Co is known for high-quality spirits aged in only the finest sourced barrels.

You can indulge in a flight of their offerings to get a full taste of their lineup or enjoy a crafted cocktail featuring one or more of their spirits.

Whether it’s rum, whiskey, or bourbon, they don’t settle for anything less than excellent. Nashville Barrel Co is a go-to for local spirits made the right way. 

• Location: 809 Heathcote Ave, Nashville, TN 37210 

Made in-house by one very talented distilling team, you’ll be impressed with the selection at this Music City distillery.

Nashville Craft Distillery crafts everything in-house to make some of the best spirits you’ll find in the city.

Whether you want to sample a flight of their offerings or take a bottle to go, they’ve got you covered. With a full lineup including gin, sorghum spirits, liquor, and bourbon whiskey, they have a taste for everyone.

You can even join in on a distiller-led tour that offers behind-the-scenes looks at the specifics of the craft. Nashville Craft Distillery is easily one of the best in Music City. 

• Location: 514 Hagan St, Nashville, TN 37203 

This popular whiskey distillery creates a wide variety of Tennessee whiskey and bourbon.

Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery is home to an award-winning Belle Meade bourbon; this is Nashville’s most historic distillery.

Coming from a family history of distillers, this original recipe bourbon comes from their great-great-great grandfather, who started the family distillery back in 1860.

Having been bottled since 1909, this is the whiskey that made Tennessee whiskey famous. Along with the classic bourbon, you’ll find liquors and a variety of whiskeys.

Sample just one or a few, and maybe even indulge in a crafted cocktail. Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery is a must-see within the city of Nashville. 

• Location: 1414 Clinton St, Boston, MA 37203

With over 10 years of experience, this distillery is an independent distillery that focuses on producing small-batch high-end spirits.

Pennington Distillery Co is an award-winning distillery with enough gold medals to speak for the product.

They offer a large lineup under a few different brands, so they have a taste for nearly everyone. Enjoy their vodkas, liquor, and an impressive lineup of whiskeys.

The team here focuses on every step of the process, from grain to bottle, to ensure you receive only the highest quality product possible. Pennington Distillery Co is an impressive showcase of Tennessee whiskey.

• Location: 900 44th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37209 

This exclusive experience is a distillery as you’ve never seen one before. Southern Collective Spirit Co embraces everything that comes with the world of whiskey, and it’s truly their passion.

The barrels in their distillery are carefully hand selected, so it’s only the best of the best, and they offer one of the most unique offerings in the city.

Here you’ll be able to taste directly from the barrel, mix, and bottle your very own blend to take home with you.

They’ll even write your name on the label. Southern Collective Spirit Co creates a unique and unforgettable experience. 

• Location: 819 2nd Ave S, Nashville, TN 37210 

Here the product is aged in New American oak barrels, and the rye whiskey is infused with all-natural ingredients.

Born in Nashville, Standard Proof Whiskey Co now offers their spirits online to be ordered from anywhere.

The product here is aged 2+ years, and everything is gluten-free, so no dietary restrictions will hold you back from indulging. This straight rye whiskey has a distinct rich flavor that’s complemented by the infusions they also offer.

You’ll be impressed with a flight of their offerings, including flavors like pecan, honeysuckle, ginger root, and more. Be sure you don’t miss out on a drink or two at Standard Proof Whiskey Co. 

• Location: 219 Rep John Lewis Way N, Nashville, TN 37219

Much more than just another place to drink moonshine in the south, this is one distillery you won’t want to miss out on.

Tennessee Legend is located in the middle of Marathon Village in a historic building. Though this location is more intimate and smaller than the others, the service is fast and friendly.

You can even take a peek through the window into the distillery to see the production crew hard at work.

Hand out with friends and taste through their selections or take a bottle home with you. Either way, you’ll be impressed with the shine served at Tennessee Legend. 

• Location: 1310 Clinton St #115, Nashville, TN 37203 

Well-known nationwide for its moonshine that comes in mason jars, you can sample everything on-site at this Nashville location.

6th + Peabody by Ole Smoky Distillery features moonshine tastings of all their products, plus crafted cocktails and other cold drinks.

The perfect location to watch the game with friends or just spend an afternoon having a few cocktails.

You’ll be impressed with the indoor and outdoor seating options, plus they feature food stands outside when you need a snack with your shine. 6th + Peabody is a must-stop distillery in Nashville for any lover of spirits. 

• Location: 423 6th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203

Enjoy all the staples of southern living, including local-made whiskey and moonshine, from these distilleries all over the city of Nashville. 

Welcome to the TN Whiskey Trail, your source for everything relating to craft spirits from the State of Tennessee!

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Shop Online

Plan Your Trip

Adventures run on tn whiskey.

Broken down by region and interests to make planning easier on you.

Get the Passport

A new way to live tn whiskey.

A fun way to experience the Tennessee Whiskey Trail. Visit them all and receive a gift.

Download Trail Map

The highway is calling.

We’ve mapped out the entire trail of TN whiskey distilleries in convenient formats.

Want to know what’s stirring on the trail?

Sign up for our newsletter!

An assortment of print and digital maps to help with your trip planning.

We've answered all your questions in our FAQ section.

New Territory

Explore scenic roads and byways as you visit each distillery.

Upcoming Events

Find out if there are any TN Whiskey Trail events planned in your area.

Friendly Faces You'll Meet

On the trail.

Keener Shanton

Head distiller, old forge distillery.

Alex Castle

Master distiller, old dominick distillery.

Andy Nelson

Head distiller, nelson's green brier distillery.

Kendra Anderson

Head distiller, leipers fork distillery.

Chris Fletcher

Master distiller, jack daniel distillery.

Head Distiller, Chattanooga Whiskey

Michael Hinds

Co-founder of nashville barrel co..

Victoria Butler

Master blender, uncle nearest.

Ryan Dickenson

Head distiller, knox whiskey works.

Nicole Austin

Gm & distiller, george dickel.

Master Distiller, Sugarlands Distilling Co.

Devin Walden

Master distiller, big machine distillery, total miles traveled, annual distillery visits, county lines crossed, no. of distilleries, annual barrels produced.

East Tennessee

Whiskey flows like a river in these hills.

Middle Tennessee

Central to your whiskey trail experience.

West Tennessee

Whiskey, barbecue and blues, adventures run on tennessee whiskey.

AWARD-WINNING, CRAFT DISTILLED SPIRITS

Awarded over 450 medals for our spirits, Corsair Distillery is celebrated for innovative whiskeys, gins, and unusual spirits.

OUR SPIRITS

The spirit is front and center of everything we do – from the grains we use or how they are treated, to our innovative production processes

• Destinations
• Winery Directory

15 Best Tennessee Whiskey Distilleries & Tours for 2024

Best Tennessee Whiskey Distilleries & Whiskey Tours for 2024

Chris Stapleton sang about it for a reason. Tennessee whiskey is some of the smoothest and richest on the market, and on top of incredible barbeque and some of the greatest musical artists the United States has ever known – like Elvis Presley and Aretha Franklin – it’s one of the state’s many pride and joys.

There are a million and one reasons to visit the great Volunteer State, but whatever your occasion is, you can’t go wrong with adding a stop or two along Tennessee’s phenomenal whiskey trail to your trip.

On top of famous whiskey labels like Jack Daniel’s that have won the world over, there are dozens of distilleries in the state with their own stories just waiting to be uncovered. If you’re looking at adding a little local culture to your trip, then keep reading for our list of the best whiskey distilleries in Tennessee.

Jack Daniel Distillery: The Oldest Whiskey Distillery in Tennessee

Winetraveler Rating:

133 Lynchburg Hwy, Lynchburg, TN 37352

(931) 759-6357

Let’s begin our journey with the obvious: if you’re adding a distillery visit and whiskey tasting to your trip to the Volunteer State, then it ought to include Jack Daniel’s. Established in historic Lynchburg way back in 1866, this iconic stop on the whiskey trail is the oldest registered distillery in the country.

Luckily for you fellow whiskey lovers out there, Jack Daniel Distillery offers tours seven days a week, and being equal parts history and whiskey, taking the drive down to Lynchburg will give you one of the best distillery tours in the state. If you’d prefer to avoid driving and would like a private, guided experience in a comfortable vehicle, arrange a tour direct to the distillery from Nashville .

Who would have thought the country’s most popular whiskey and its world-famous black and white label would have grown to fame and fortune in one of Tennessee’s last dry counties?

Nashville Barrel Company Distillery and Whiskey Bar

809 Heathcote Ave, Nashville, TN 37210

(615) 891-1046

There is a ton of fun to be had in Nashville, and yes, as wild as the honky tonks are, much of the fun can be found off Broadway and away from downtown’s neon lights. If you’re taking a trip to Music City and are looking for something to wash down that hot chicken, then this is the stop for you.

Even though this Nashville spot is quite young – only opening its doors in 2018 – cofounders James Davenport and Mike Hinds lead their operation with their unique cocktail of ingenuity, experience, and vision. Curious to taste some of their award-winning spirits? Nashville Barrel Co. offers flights, premium tastings, and more. If you’re looking for a more intimate tasting experience at one of the best distilleries in Tennessee, you can schedule a private tour at their Nashville location as well.

Recommended: Consider taking our recommended guided craft distillery tour along the Tennessee whiskey trail and leave the driving to someone else. You’ll meet at a central location in downtown Nashville, and all distillery entrance fees are included.

Ole Smoky Distillery

423 6th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203

(615) 647-8272

Every time we get an itch to head back down to Music City, we always head to the Ole Smoky location on 6th and Peabody right after dropping off our bags. Not only do they make some of the best moonshine in Tennessee, but their Nashville location hosts a fun bar serving all the live country music and hot chicken that you would expect. From what we’ve heard, the Ole Smoky Pigeon Forge distillery is a pretty great time too.

Make no mistake though. Just because Ole Smoky specializes in flavored moonshine doesn’t mean they don’t distill some amazing whiskey as well. Their barrelhouse distillery in Gatlinburg makes some of the best whiskey and moonshine in Tennessee, complete with group tastings.

Old Forge Distillery

170 Old Mill Ave, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

(865) 774-4126

We mentioned Pigeon Forge in the last section, and even though that town is mostly for tourists, they do have some great whiskey, including the Old Forge Distillery. Located in Old Mill Square, this Pigeon Forge distillery is a historic icon and has one of the oldest continually operated gristmills in the country.

Like Ole Smokey, the folks at Old Forge produce and serve a wide variety of different spirits. Bourbon is what made them famous, but if that’s not what you’re in the mood for, they offer several other award-winning drinks, such as vodka, cream liqueurs, their famous 1830 moonshine, and more.

Cascade Hollow Distilling Co.

1950 Cascade Hollow Rd, Tullahoma, TN 37388

(931) 408-2410

Cascade Hollow might not sound too familiar, but if you’re a bourbon lover like most of us are at Winetraveler, then their signature product, George Dickel, certainly ought to. When it comes to whiskey distilleries in Tennessee, Cascade Hollow is one of the most famous out there, so making a trip out to their Tullahoma location is absolutely worth your while.

George Dickel’s successors still make their bourbon in honor of their founder’s vision, and your guide can fill you in on all the steps they go through to make their Tennessee whiskey “mellow as moonlight.” Add some ice, pour some bitters, drink it neat, whatever you want; but George Dickel deserves to be enjoyed during your trip down the Whiskey Trail .

Leiper’s Fork Distillery

3381 Southall Rd, Franklin, TN 37064

(615) 465-6456

Among all of the whiskey distilleries in Tennessee, this gem in Franklin is one of our personal favorites. Maybe it’s because we’re history lovers, but there is something so inspiring about their dedication to the age-old distilling methods that Tennessee’s original Irish and Scottish settlers used. A trip to Franklin itself is worth it, but once you’re there, stop by the distillery for a glass or tasting to see what makes Leiper’s Fork so authentic and beautiful.

They also host monthly live music events called still house sessions. If you haven’t gotten enough whiskey or live music during your trip to Tennessee, then there aren’t many better ways to experience both at the same time.

Best Tennessee Whiskey Tours

In addition to the whiskey tours we mentioned previously, there are several others that are ideal if you’d prefer not to worry about the logistics of planning or driving.

Nashville to Jack Daniel’s Distillery Bus Tour with Whiskey Tastings

Our most highly-rated tour, step into the storied world of Tennessee whiskey with Tennessee Whiskey Tours . Depart from Nashville and immerse yourself in whiskey history as you journey to the iconic Jack Daniel’s Distillery. Here, you’ll embark on an intimate tasting experience, savoring several premier Tennessee whiskeys that celebrate the spirit of the Volunteer State. But the experience extends beyond the barrel. You’ll also enjoy ample free time to meander through the charming town nearby, known for its Tennessee Walking Horse. Wander the quaint streets of downtown Lynchburg, find a cozy spot for lunch, and indulge in a bit of shopping. With Tennessee Whiskey Tours, you’re invited to bring your own beverages for the ride, stashing them in the on-board cooler for added convenience. This is more than a distillery tour – it’s a Tennessee adventure.

Wine Me, Shine Me, Dine Me

Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Tennessee’s spirited beverages with Smoky Tours. This Pigeon Forge Wine, Whiskey, and Moonshine Tour seamlessly blends the cultural history of Appalachia with the flavors of the region, all without the need to worry about transportation. Kick off your adventure at a centrally located meeting point in Pigeon Forge before setting out to explore two prominent local distilleries. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to sample a diverse array of vodka, moonshine, and whiskey that capture the essence of Tennessee’s spirited history. But the experience isn’t all hard liquor – you’ll also get a taste of Tennessee’s wine offerings after relishing an included lunch. With its concise duration, this tour offers a hearty helping of Tennessee culture and leaves you ample time for your evening plans. Let Smoky Tours take you on a spirited journey through Pigeon Forge.

Nashville’s Premier Distillery & Craft Brewery Bus Tour with Tastings

Experience the flavors of Nashville like a local with The Ville Tours . This specialty tour introduces you to an impressive array of local brews and spirits through engaging tastings at the city’s distinguished distilleries and breweries. Take the stress out of navigating public transport as VIP transfers whisk you from one location to the next, allowing you to focus on the flavors. You’ll stop at 3–4 distinct locations where you’ll have the chance to sample the craftsmanship that goes into making beers, bourbons, moonshine, and vodka. With this tour, you’re not just tasting – you’re also learning about the craft and passion behind every bottle. Savor the taste of Nashville and leave the logistics to The Ville Tours.

Downtown Nashville Walking Food Tour

Take a break from distillery hopping and unearth the authentic taste of Music City on this guided culinary journey, operated by A Little Local Flavor . As you meander through Nashville’s iconic landmarks, such as Broadway, the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Ryman Auditorium, and Printers Alley, you’ll also delve into the city’s rich history. Savor quintessential Southern delights ranging from the infamous Nashville hot chicken and BBQ to locally brewed beer, served at the city’s beloved eateries. This tour presents the perfect opportunity to blend culinary exploration with Nashville’s vibrant culture, making it a must-do experience for food enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Included in the tour are lunch and two alcoholic beverages. Furthermore, our guides are more than happy to offer their local insights and recommendations to enhance your Nashville journey. Meet us at a conveniently located central spot to begin your food-filled adventure!

Tennessee Big Machine Distillery Guided Tour with Tastings

Delve into the art of spirit production with the Big Machine Store & Distillery’s immersive tour , located in the heart of downtown Nashville. Witness the crafting of an array of spirits such as vodka, whiskey, gin, and moonshine, and learn about the unique filtration process that results in their specially crafted vodka. This tour is an ideal experience for both foodies and spirits enthusiasts, offering a rich understanding of traditional Southern spirits. Participants can indulge in a tasting flight of Tenn South spirits and a crafted cocktail, deepening their appreciation for the craft. The opportunity to purchase spirits and merchandise as mementos of this engaging experience is also available.

Famous Moonshine & Wine Tour From Pigeon Forge

Embark on a half-day journey through Tennessee’s rich liquor heritage, operated by Tennessee Mountain Tours . Discover the intriguing history of moonshine and prohibition in the region, as well as gain insight into local breweries and distilleries from your well-versed guide. Enjoy a visit to multiple moonshine distilleries and wineries, with potential stops including Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine, Hillside Winery, Smith Creek Moonshine, Mountain Valley Winery, or Tennessee XXX Moonshine. This small-group tour allows for an intimate, insider’s perspective into Tennessee’s spirited culture, offering complimentary tastings and a free gift from local wineries. Transportation for pick-up and drop-off from Pigeon Forge is provided, making this an effortless way to dive into the region’s famous drinkable delights.

Nashville Combo Tour: Sightseeing, Murals, and Brewery

Immerse yourself in the diverse offerings of Nashville with a unique, small-group combo tour operated by Joyride Tours, LLC . This well-rounded tour allows you to experience a comprehensive view of the city, from iconic landmarks such as the Tennessee State Capitol and the renowned honky-tonk bars, to the city’s Instagram-worthy murals, all from the comfort of a golf cart. Further, you’ll get to explore the local spirit scene with tastings of locally brewed moonshine, whiskey, and vodka in two distilleries. With a cap of only seven participants, this tour ensures a personalized experience, introducing you to local hotspots while covering a plethora of sights efficiently.

Barbecue, Beer & Bourbon: Nashville Adventure

Experience the ‘Music City’ from a different perspective on a food and drink tasting tour operated by MJT Nashville LLC . While Nashville is renowned for its music, it’s equally celebrated for its BBQ and brew culture. This specialty tour lets you immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant food scene by visiting three of Nashville’s hottest spots where you’ll sample craft beer, local bourbons, smoked meats, and exquisite whiskeys. The tour culminates with an exclusive insight into the Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery. Move beyond the typical tourist track and explore the city’s food and drink scene like a local, accompanied by captivating stories that weave the rich tapestry of Tennessee’s iconic city.

Private Whiskey Nashville Jack and Back Tour

Dive deep into the world of the renowned Jack Daniels whiskey with the exclusive tour provided by Legendary Tours . For over 145 years, this illustrious liquor has been a staple of Tennessee, and this tour enables you to explore the rich history and unique production methods behind the famous brand. Forego the stress of arranging transportation and enjoy a lavish ride in a private limo bus, straight to the Jack Daniels Distillery. Wander through the Visitor Center and Bottle Shop, learning about the distinctive Lincoln County Process of whiskey making, all while sampling some of the finest Jack Daniels offerings. With this tour, not only will you enjoy whiskey tastings, but also partake in interesting discussions about whiskey production and uncover insider secrets that add a fascinating layer to your experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tennessee Whiskey Distilleries

What is considered to be the best tennessee whiskey.

Tennessee whiskey is best known for its two biggest brands: Jack Daniel’s and George Dickel. Among these, Jack Daniel’s, particularly Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7, is arguably the most iconic and widely recognized Tennessee whiskey globally. However, if we’re talking about the “best” Tennessee whiskey in terms of quality and prestige, the conversation often turns towards more premium offerings. For example, Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Select is often highly rated for its complexity and richness. George Dickel also has high-end variants, like their Barrel Select, which is lauded for its smooth and sophisticated flavor profile. Outside these well-known distilleries, newer establishments like Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery are gaining recognition. Their Belle Meade Bourbon, though not technically a Tennessee whiskey due to not following the Lincoln County Process, has received several awards and accolades for its quality. As with any spirit, the “best” Tennessee whiskey often comes down to individual taste preferences, so it’s always a good idea to explore a variety of offerings and find what suits your palate the best.

What is the oldest whiskey distillery in Tennessee?

The title of the oldest registered distillery in Tennessee (and the United States, for that matter) goes to the Jack Daniel’s Distillery, located in Lynchburg. Founded by Jasper Newton “Jack” Daniel in 1866, the distillery is recognized for its charcoal-mellowed Tennessee Whiskey, a process known as the Lincoln County Process. However, it’s worth noting that distilling in Tennessee dates back to well before Jack Daniel’s establishment. For instance, settlers were producing whiskey in the region as early as the late 18th century. But as for legally registered and continuously operating distilleries, Jack Daniel’s holds the title.

How many distilleries are on the Tennessee Whiskey Trail?

The Tennessee Whiskey Trail, a project by the Tennessee Distillers Guild, consists of about 30 distilleries across the state of Tennessee. These distilleries vary in size and style, from large, globally recognized brands like Jack Daniel’s and George Dickel to craft distilleries. The trail was designed to connect these distilleries and provides visitors with a deep dive into the history, tradition, and novelty of Tennessee whiskey.

You are reading “Best Tennessee Whiskey Distilleries and Whiskey Tours to Experience” Back To Top

distilleries near me to taste, whiskey tours near me, whiskey tasting, Tennessee whiskey trail, Tennessee whiskey tours

If you enjoyed this article, be sure to register on Winetraveler.com for free to interact with the community and for travel inspiration around the world, and be sure to follow along with us on Instagram and Twitter . 

Get Articles Like These Directly in Your Inbox!

Subscribe to Winetraveler and receive notifications when new travel guides and itineraries are published. It's free!

Email Address

Sign Me Up!

Login to view more Articles

Leave a comment, ask a question or share a review cancel reply, you might also like, exploring paso robles at night: best things to do after wineries close in 2024, best walla walla wineries, wine tours & tastings 2024, 14 romantic winter travel destinations in the usa, best wineries in new mexico to visit in 2024, 11 seriously awesome u.s. road trips you can take right now, 10 top us national parks to visit during the winter, 35 best napa wineries & wine tasting tours for 2024, wineries nearby, weis vineyards, adelsheim vineyard, daou vineyards & winery, tunnel creek vineyards, cheers to free membership.

Explore new paths. Travel expertise from locals and wine industry experts.

Get free access to all the goods:

• Exclusive articles
• In-depth itineraries
• …and more

Protect Your Trip »

The 5 Best Nashville Breweries and Distilleries

Meet and mingle with master brewers, professional beertenders and Music City tastemakers.

Courtesy of Nelson's Green Brier Distillery

Nelson's Green Brier Distillery crafts some of the nation's finest whiskeys, based on the recipe originally developed over a century ago.

If you're spending any amount of time in Nashville , you have to tour at least one of the breweries or distilleries that have made a name for themselves in town.

Sure, Nashville is well-known for its twangy honky-tonks, but it's also a community that companies making great ales and spirits proudly call home. (Some might even say Nashville's a drinking town with a music problem.)

If you're planning a trip to Music City, here are some of the finest breweries and distilleries you can tour.

Yazoo Brewing Co.

"One of the best breweries in Nashville is also one of the most famous and that is Yazoo brewery," says Shannon Gray, lead concierge at Loews Vanderbilt Hotel . "A lot of people like to go to Yazoo because it's right in the Gulch. You can have a really nice meal and a few adult beverages and then walk it off."

[Read: The Best Hotels in Nashville .]

When you ask anyone in town about local breweries, Yazoo Brewing Co. is nearly guaranteed to be one of their first recommendations. It's been around since 2003, and its seasonal brews are offered on draft at the most popular local watering holes. (Yazoo Pale Ale is a staple in these parts.) It's one of the oldest craft breweries in Nashville, but its popularity is largely driven by one simple factor: The beer is really, really good. And, the taproom is one of the best in town, where you can relax and grab a pint.

Andrew Atkins III, a longtime resident and lead navigator/concierge at the Renaissance Nashville Hotel , agrees, saying, "These guys are ahead of the game. Yazoo has thought of the guest first. They are not just producing beer, they are asking people to come and hang out."

Tours are $8 per person, and the brewery is open Wednesday and Thursday from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., Friday from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. It's closed Sunday through Tuesday.

Nelson's Green Brier Distillery

Nelson's Green Brier Distillery

"As far as distilleries go, Green Brier is my favorite," says Kelcie Borton, lead concierge at the Sheraton Grand Nashville Downtown . "Their history is just really cool. They were actually more successful than Jack Daniel's before the [statewide] prohibition."

The turn-of-the-century Tennessee prohibition shut down the family business, but its story didn't end there. Nelson's Green Brier Distillery was resurrected in recent years by several of its heirs. Today, the distillery once again crafts some of the nation's finest whiskeys, based on the recipe originally developed over a century ago.

[Read: Locals’ 5 Favorite Bars in Nashville .]

Dawn Kote, concierge at the Hilton Nashville Downtown , says she loves the distillery's Belle Meade Bourbon.

Tours are $10 for those 21 and older, $5 for youths 13 to 21, free for kids 12 and younger and $5 for those with a military ID. The distillery is open Sunday and Monday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Tennessee Brew Works

Courtesy of Laura Roberts

One thing that sets this microbrewery apart is that it has a macro view of its role in the community. It's determined not just to make great beer but to lead the industry by using environmentally friendly practices. Tennessee Brew Works was one of the first breweries to use a unique green brewing process that requires a very small amount of water. It completed its first professional brew in 2013 and has since become a local favorite.

"Tennessee Brew Works, it's just a little south of downtown Nashville. They have a really great facility," says Ryan Mailley, guest services ambassador at the Omni Nashville Hotel . "The beer is great. One of my favorite things about them is their craft food menu. They serve one of the best burgers I've had in Nashville."

The brewery is open Monday through Friday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from noon to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tours are offered every Saturday for $7 per person.

Jackalope Brewing Co.

Courtesy of Andrea Behrends

This brewery, located a smidge south of downtown, makes some award-winning ales, stouts and hefeweizens. Its founders are noteworthy, too: Bailey Spaulding and Robyn Virball broke into a traditionally male-dominated industry when the women established Jackalope Brewing Co. in 2011.

Mailley says he's a fan of Jackalope Brewing. "I think they are unique because they are one of the only all-women-founded breweries in the country. If you ever have the chance to go, it's an awesome tour."

Jackalope Brewing offers $7 tours of the brewery, which last about 45 minutes, and a trivia night every Thursday for those brave enough to match wits with other lager-lovers.

[Read: The Best Nashville Tours .]

The brewery is open Monday through Wednesday from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from noon to 8 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m. Tour availability varies by season.

The Black Abbey Brewing Co.

Courtesy of Tiffany Dupree

The Black Abbey Brewing Co. 's monastery-inspired brand is not exactly what you'd expect in Music City. But, its Belgian-style beer has developed quite a following among thirsty Nashvillians seeking something a little more interesting than your typical brew.

Case in point: the recent success of The Forty-Four Coffee Porter, a robust brew honoring 44th President Barack Obama. The brewery's website notes it's "liberally infused with an exclusive blend of Hawaiian and Kenyan coffee beans." The porter became so popular that it graduated from a seasonal to a year-round selection.

One thing to note is that this brewery is located well outside downtown Nashville. It's an easy 5-mile drive just south of town, but plan to visit before or after evening rush hour to avoid traffic.

The brewery is open Wednesday through Friday from 3:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday from noon to 8 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m. Tours are available Saturdays for $10 per person. It's closed Monday and Tuesday.

To experience more of what Nashville has to offer, check out the U.S. News Travel guide .

Tags: Nashville , Travel , Vacations , food and drink

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Flight canceled or delayed what to do.

Amanda Norcross April 8, 2024

Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airline

The Best Charleston Tours

John Rodwan April 4, 2024

The Best Napa Valley Wine Tours

Amanda Norcross April 4, 2024

The 10 Best Denver Tours

Lyn Mettler April 4, 2024

Top Memorial Day Weekend Getaways

Nicola Wood April 3, 2024

The Best Way to Renew a Passport

Amanda Norcross April 3, 2024

The Best Checked Luggage

Erin Evans , Rachael Hood , Catriona Kendall , Sharael Kolberg , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson April 3, 2024

The Best Venice Tours

Lyn Mettler and Marisa Méndez April 2, 2024

The Best Travel Toiletry Bags

Amanda Norcross April 2, 2024

Latest News & Travel Info

Best Nashville Distillery Tours

Tennessee is known for good music and maybe even better whiskey. After 2009, it became legal to distill spirits outside of Lincoln, Coffee, and Moore counties in Tennessee. Both bringing great whiskeys back to Tennessee and creating incredible new tours throughout the state.

Enjoy old and new drinking traditions in Nashville, and learn about the history, tradition while you sample the best whiskey in Tennessee on a personalized distillery tour. Spend the day sampling whiskeys with friends and family at Tennessee’s best distilleries in Lynchburg, Franklin, Thompson's Station, Nashville, and more.

Here are some of our favorite distilleries in Tennessee:

Jack Daniels Distillery

Easily the most recognizable and iconic whiskey brands in world, the Jack Daniels distillery is located in Lynchburg, TN, about 90 miles from Nashville. The distillery offers several themed tours including a tasting tour, and sample Old. No. 7 and Gentleman Jack as well as lesser-known products like Tennessee Fire and Tennessee Honey.

H Clark Distillery

This micro-distillery is passionate about bourbon. Located in Thompson's Station, you can see how spirits were made the old-fashioned way including down to the lined garbage cans! H Clark Distillery creates hand-labeled batches of its Whiskey, Black & Tan, and Tennessee Bourbon spirits.

Corsair Distillery

Corsair Distillery got its start by two childhood friends brewing beer and wine in their garage. Now this Internationally award-winning distillery has two trendy locations in Nashville. Unique offerings include everything from quinoa whiskey to pumpkin spice moonshine.

Leiper's Fork Distillery

Leiper’s Fork Whiskey offers something a little different. Their whiskey has a larger percentage of barley than most Tennessee whiskeys, closer to whiskeys from Scotland and Ireland. Distilled in a 200-year-old barn, Leiper’s Fork brings a more historical frontier tradition to Nashville suburbs.

Pennington Distillery

Formerly known as SPEAKeasy Spirits, there’s always a good time at Pennington Distillery in Nashville. They offer a variety of spirits and super fun whiskey tours in an old airplane hanger. Walk through their facility and experience every step in their process, from grinding the grain to bottling finished products.

George Dickel Distillery

Located in rural Tennessee, George Dickel Distillery is 140-years-old that follows in the Scottish tradition including spelling without the E in Whisky. Today George Dickel offers a wide range of whiskys including an aged 90 proof and the Hot Dickel, a spicy Tabasco hot sauce-infused whisky.

Nelson's Green Brier Distillery

Green Brier has been distilling way back before prohibition and Jack Daniels. The distillery now offers whiskeys and bourbons inspired by the pre-Prohibition past.

Enjoy your time in Tennessee, but remember to drive safe! Want a whiskey tour of Tennessee? Our tour company, Whiskey Trail Tours , offers a selection of distillery tours in Nashville or book a custom tour through Signature.

Latest Posts

Distillery, Brewery, and Wine Tours are the Hottest Things to Do When Visiting Nashville

The Best Way to Travel to Concerts and Sporting Events: The Experience of Having a Chauffeur vs. a Driver

It's Back-to-School Time and Never Too Early to Plan Transportation for Homecoming, Prom, and Special Occasions

Savoring the Music and Mirth: A Deep Dive into Nashville Events in August 2023

Nashville’s Grand Salute to Freedom: The 4th of July 2023

Black History Month in Music City: Events and Happenings

5 Things You Should Know About Bonnaroo

A LOCAL COMPANY

With a global footprint.

Whether you’re traveling around the country or abroad, Signature Transportation Services has you covered through our trusted network of affiliates.

Signature Transportation Services

Phone: (615) 244-5466

E-mail: [email protected]

Address: 1306 Antioch Pike Nashville, TN 37211

4.8 out of 5 stars rating. Customer Satisfaction Survey

Official Transportation Partner for the Nashville Predators

Partner companies

Request a Quote

• [email protected]
• (615) 285-9835

• Pokémon GO / Wizards Unite Tour
• Bachelor Party Bus (Coming Soon)
• Legends of Music City Walking Tour
• E-Bike Tour
• Monster Truck Tour
• Tractor Tour
• Nashville Bus Tour
• Van Transportation
• NASCAR Tracks

Nashville, Tennessee

• Golf Cart Tours
• Walking Tours
• Monster Truck
• Tractor Tours
• E-Bike Tours
• Group Transportation

• Tuscaloosa, Alabama

• Houston, Texas

• ADVERTISING
• REQUEST A SHUTTLE

• Sightseeing Tour
• Mural & Instagram Tour
• Brewery/Distillery Tour
• Manager's Special Tour
• Bar Golf Crawl
• Nashville Shopping Tour

• Bachelorette Party Bus (Coming Soon)

• All-Inclusive Pub Crawl Walking Tour

• Haunted Ghost Tour
• Craft Brewery Tour & Distillery Experience
• Premier Bourbon and Whiskey Tour by Van

• Large Group Transportation

Golf Cart Brewery/Distillery Tour

• Leave a review

Taste your way through Nashville’s beer and spirits scene! This cart tour is the best way to visit some of Nashville’s top breweries and/or distilleries.

Children 5-7 must be in booster seat. Anyone under 21 may not be allowed in all/any locations. Subject to each location’s policies.

Relax and enjoy a cold refreshing drink!

Taste your way through Nashville’s beer and spirits scene! This cart tour is the best way to visit some of Nashville’s top breweries and/or distilleries. Sit back and relax with your friends while we take you up to four Nashville breweries and/or distilleries.

The tour lasts approximately two hours with a 20-25 minute stop at each location (alcohol samples must be purchased separately). This tour was voted one of Nashville’s most popular tours by TripAdvisor.

With this tour, groups of two may be paired with up to five other people unless you select the VIP option. The VIP option simply means that you will not be paired with others.

Additional questions and answers can be found by clicking here:

You May Also Be Interested In

Golf cart nashville shopping tour.

• The Nashville Shopping Tour is a special three-hour tour of one of the coolest cities for anyone who loves a good basic PSL or a glass of rosé.

Golf Cart Bar Golf Crawl

• What do you get when you combine a mobile putt-putt course, Nashville’s best and most popular tour company along with five great bars? It’s the Joyride Nashville Bar Golf!

Golf Cart Manager’s Special Tour

• Welcome to The Manager’s Special Tour! This is our newest and most unique experience. If you are interested in seeing and doing more than simply a sightseeing tour or a mural tour, check this out!

Best Places In Nashville to Meet Your Match

A re you ready to mingle in Nashville? With the upcoming Blavity House Party Music Festival on the horizon, there’s never been a better time to explore the music city’s vibrant scene. You may even meet your match. Whether you’re into Afro Beats, Jazz, Hip Hop, or R&B, Nashville has something special in store for you. Grab your crew and get ready to hit the town with these top-notch spots.

Blavity House Party Music Festival: Leveling Up the Experience

First things first, Blavity House Party Music Festival is right around the corner and it promises to be a game-changer. Attendees will experience a blend of the vibrant energy of what was once RNB House Party with Blavity’s commitment to community and innovation. Get ready as Blavity takes over Nashville June 14-15.   Tickets are now on sale .

The Vanguard

Looking for a more relaxed vibe to kick off your night? Look no further than The Vanguard. This hotspot seamlessly blends handcrafted cocktails with the sounds of Afro Beats, Jazz, and R&B. With regular African-themed art shows and live showcases, it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in Nashville’s creative scene. Who knows, you might also meet someone new.

Minerva Avenu e

Ready to turn up the heat? Head over to Minerva Avenue, Nashville’s top-rated black-owned bar and restaurant. Sip on craft cocktails like “Show Me The Money” or “You Can’t Handle The Truth” while grooving to the weekly R&B lineup. With a full menu lineup and live music “all day er’ day,” it’s the ultimate spot for drinks, dancing, and making connections.

Jefferson Street Sound Museum

Transport yourself back to the “Golden Age” of Jefferson Street at the Jefferson Street Sound Museum. With open exhibits every Saturday and a summer lineup of community events, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore Nashville’s rich musical heritage while mingling with fellow music enthusiasts.

National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM)

Delve deeper into the impact of Black music at the NMAAM, the first museum dedicated to preserving and celebrating Black musical heritage. Located in downtown Nashville, it’s a must-visit destination for music lovers of all backgrounds. Afterward, indulge in some culinary delights at the nearby Fifth & Broadway complex, home to Nashville’s popular Black-owned eateries.

Nearest Green Distillery

Take a trip to the Nearest Green Distillery and raise a glass to Tennessee whiskey. As the first distillery to commemorate an African American, Nearest Green, it’s a testament to Black excellence and innovation in the spirits industry. With a range of activities for the whole family, including tastings and farm tours, it’s the perfect blend of history and hospitality.

Nashville Black Wellness Collective

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with the Nashville Black Wellness Collective. Led by Dr. Kim Walker and Claude Walker, this organization offers curated outdoor adventures for Black individuals looking to connect with nature and each other. Whether it’s biking in Nashville’s parks or kayaking on the water, it’s a chance to unwind and maybe meet someone special.

End your night on a high note at Cë Gallery, an inspired speakeasy studio that hosts art exhibitions, dance parties, and holistic healing events. With its ever-changing exhibits and immersive experiences, it’s the perfect place to let loose, connect with fellow creatives, and maybe even find your perfect match.

The post Best Places In Nashville to Meet Your Match appeared first on 21Ninety .