Chattanooga Southern Food and Wine or Whiskey Tour with Tastings

If you’re looking to combine a love of good eats with a taste of Chattanooga’s local spirit and history, this Chattanooga Southern Food and Wine or Whiskey Tour might just be your next favorite adventure. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-curated experience that balances indulgence with a touch of cultural insight.

What we love about this tour? First, the professionalism of the guides shines through, making each stop both educational and fun. Second, the variety of tastings—from wine at the Georgia Winery to whiskey at a local distillery—ensures a well-rounded experience of Southern flavors.

One possible consideration? The price point of $299.99 per person might seem high at first glance, but given that it includes private transportation, several tastings, a full dinner, and entry fees, many will find it offers good value. This tour is especially suited for those eager to sample local cuisine, learn about regional spirits, and enjoy Chattanooga’s historic sites—all in one seamless package.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with tastings, dinner, and transportation.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the storytelling and tasting journey.
• Diverse stops include a historic winery, a distillery, and a Southern restaurant.
• Authentic flavors of the South, with a focus on local ingredients and traditions.
• Comfortable pacing—roughly 5 hours—allowing plenty of time at each stop.
• Limited group size (max 14 travelers) for a more personalized experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Chattanooga Food & Whiskey Tour

This five-hour tour offered by Sunset Cruse aims to showcase some of Chattanooga’s best culinary and drink treasures, offering a well-balanced mix of local history, food, and spirits. Priced at $299.99 per person, it positions itself as a premium experience—yet if you consider the inclusion of transport, multiple tastings, a full dinner, and entry fees, it delivers notable value, especially for travelers keen on exploring Chattanooga’s southern soul in a single afternoon.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Georgia Winery

The tour begins in style with a ride to Georgia Winery, one of Chattanooga Valley’s oldest vineyards. The highlight here is the guided tour, during which you’ll learn how wine is made from grape to glass—something that adds depth to your tasting experience. Expect to sample five different wines, and, as a bonus, you’ll receive a souvenir wine glass to remember your visit. Plus, you get to take home a bottle of your choice, offering a lovely keepsake or gift.

Travelers who love wine will appreciate the opportunity to see a traditional vineyard firsthand, far from the commercialized wine shops. One reviewer praised the guide Ryan’s attentiveness and breadth of knowledge, noting that the experience was both friendly and informative.

Second Stop: Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery and Historic Chattanooga Choo Choo

After savoring wine, the tour moves into Chattanooga’s drinking history with a visit to a local distillery, located near the famous Chattanooga Choo Choo. This historic landmark, a charming reminder of the city’s train past, sets the scene for a guided whiskey tasting. Here, you’ll discover what makes Tennessee whiskey distinct, and the tasting includes multiple varieties—around six, in fact.

What sets this segment apart is the storytelling. You learn not just about the spirits but about Chattanooga’s significance in American transportation history. The whiskey tasting is designed to be engaging, offering insight into Tennessee’s tradition of whiskey-making—a craft highly valued in the South.

Final Stop: Nick & Normans for Dinner

The day wraps up at Nick & Normans, a Southern-style restaurant created by Norman Reedus, known from The Walking Dead, and director Greg Nicotero. The restaurant is celebrated for its hearty, locally inspired dishes in a warm, inviting setting. Here, you’ll enjoy a substantial dinner that emphasizes regional ingredients—think fried chicken, shrimp and grits, or other Southern staples.

The reviews highlight the quality of the food and the friendly, cinematic atmosphere—fitting for a place associated with Hollywood’s favorite zombie apocalypse hero.

What to Expect from the Experience

Throughout the tour, transportation is private, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere with minimal hassle. The group size is capped at 14, which means you’ll get more personalized attention and an opportunity to ask plenty of questions.

The tour starts at 1:00 pm, providing a leisurely afternoon that fits well with most travelers’ schedules. With most travelers booking about 20 days in advance, it seems to be a popular choice, perhaps because it offers a comprehensive taste of Chattanooga’s local flavors and history.

The Value Proposition

While this experience isn’t cheap, it justifies its price by bundling activities that could easily cost more if booked separately. Entry to the winery, distillery, and restaurant are all included, along with tastings and dinner. The added benefit of a guided story and transport makes it an efficient way to sample Chattanooga’s culinary scene without the stress of planning multiple outings.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic People

Visitors rave about the guides, describing them as attentive, personable, and knowledgeable—an important aspect that turns a good tour into a memorable one. One reviewer mentioned how their guide Ryan worked hard to ensure everyone had a great experience, which underscores the effort put into making this tour personal and engaging.

The focus on local ingredients, regional spirits, and Chattanooga’s historic sites means you’re not just tasting but also learning—an aspect many travelers appreciate. It’s a trip designed for those who want to understand the story behind their drinks and dishes.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food and drink enthusiasts eager to explore Chattanooga’s authentic flavors. If you enjoy guided tours that combine history with culinary delight, you’ll find this a perfect fit. It also suits travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace and want a memorable, all-in-one afternoon experience.

However, if you prefer self-guided adventures or are on a tight budget, this may feel a bit pricey. Still, many will see the value in the curated experience, especially considering the quality of tastings and the inclusion of dinner.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, starting at 1:00 pm and ending back at the original meeting point.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers private transportation, five wine tastings, a souvenir glass, one bottle of wine, whiskey tastings at the distillery, dinner at Nick & Normans, and all entrance fees.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but since it includes alcohol tastings, it’s best suited for 21+ adults.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, most travelers book about 20 days ahead. Booking early is recommended to secure your spot.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, receiving a full refund.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
While not specified, it’s best to contact the provider directly if you have special dietary needs.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to 14 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 44 Station St, Chattanooga, TN 37408, and ends back at the same location.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation is provided throughout the tour.

Final Thoughts

This Chattanooga Southern Food, Wine, and Whiskey Tour offers a well-rounded taste of the city’s culinary and historical charms. It’s a smart choice for those who want a guided, all-in-one experience without the hassle of planning multiple outings. The combination of tastings, stories, and regional dishes makes it a memorable way to spend half a day exploring Chattanooga’s authentic flavors.

If you’re eager to understand and enjoy the South’s culinary heritage in a relaxed, friendly setting, this tour delivers on those promises. It balances education, indulgence, and local culture—crafted for curious travelers who want to leave with a full stomach and a richer appreciation of Chattanooga.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a flavorful taste of Tennessee, this tour promises a hearty, engaging, and enjoyable afternoon that you’ll remember long after the glasses are empty.