Gatlinburg: Cocktails Behind the Stave Tour

If you’re heading to Gatlinburg and enjoy a good story paired with a well-crafted drink, the Cocktails Behind the Stave Tour at Sugarlands Distilling Company offers a lively peek into Appalachian moonshine traditions. It’s a fairly short experience — just 75 minutes — but one that packs plenty of flavor, history, and fun into a compact package.

What makes this tour appealing? First, we love the way it combines tastings of four different cocktails with an educational glimpse into the craft of distilling award-winning spirits. Second, the chance to step back into the Prohibition era makes the experience more than just a tasting; it’s a genuine connection to the storied past of moonshine in the Appalachian Mountains.

One possible consideration? The tour is limited to guests over 21, so it’s not suitable for anyone with younger travelers, and some might find the 75-minute duration a bit brief if they’re seeking a more extensive behind-the-scenes look. Still, it’s an experience that fits well into a balanced day of Gatlinburg activities, especially for those with an interest in spirits, history, or local craftsmanship.

This tour is perfect if you’re curious about the heritage of moonshine, enjoy flavorful cocktails, and want an engaging, yet relaxed, activity in Gatlinburg’s lively downtown area. It’s also great for travelers who appreciate storytelling, as guides often share amusing anecdotes and details about the distilling process.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: Combines a historical theme with tasting four distinct cocktails.
• Educational value: Learn about the art of distilling in the Appalachian region.
• Guided tour: Enjoy insights from knowledgeable guides, often praised for their humor and friendliness.
• Short and sweet: 75-minute duration makes it easy to fit into a busy Gatlinburg itinerary.
• Family friendly? No, strictly 21 and over.
• Great for enthusiasts: Especially those interested in spirits, mixology, or local heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Gatlinburg Cocktails Behind the Stave Tour

We’ll take you through what to expect and how to make the most of your time at Sugarlands Distilling Company. This tour strikes a nice balance between education, entertainment, and tasting, wrapped up in the charming setting of Gatlinburg’s mountain town vibe.

Starting with the Tour of the Still House

The experience begins with a guided look at the still house, where you’ll observe the actual process of making spirits like whiskey, vodka, and moonshine. Seeing the stills in action isn’t just a visual treat—it’s an opportunity to understand how these spirits are crafted with care and precision. Guides often share stories about the legacy of moonshine in the region, adding context to the modern craft distilling scene.

From the reviews, we hear that the guides are often praised for their knowledge and humor. One reviewer specifically mentions Jesse, saying he kept the mood light with jokes while providing a thorough overview of the distillation process. Another mentions Jeff as being personable and sharing a lot of knowledge — a sign that the guides aim to make the experience both fun and informative.

The Prohibition Era Theme

The tour does an excellent job of painting a picture of moonshine’s rebellious past during Prohibition. You might find yourself imagining the clandestine activities that took place in these mountains decades ago. While you won’t be entering a hidden speakeasy, the storytelling and decor help recreate that era’s spirit — pun intended.

Sampling Four Unique Cocktails

The highlight for many visitors is the cocktail flight. You’ll be served four drinks, each crafted with Sugarlands’ spirits like their Roaming Man Tennessee Straight Rye Whiskey, moonshine, or sippin creams. These aren’t your average mixed drinks; they’re thoughtfully designed to showcase the versatility of the spirits.

From reviews, we see that the cocktails are consistently described as delicious, with one visitor noting, “The cocktails were delicious!” The flavors are likely to be reflective of Appalachian ingredients and regional influence, adding an authentic touch.

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Discovering Signature Moonshines and Sippin Creams

Beyond the cocktails, the tour introduces you to the stories behind various products, including Appalachian Apple Pie Moonshine and Banana Pudding Sippin Cream. These personal stories and tasting notes add a layer of appreciation for the craftsmanship involved, turning your sip into a small history lesson.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adults who appreciate good drinks and are intrigued by local storytelling. If you’re a fan of spirits, mixology, or history, you’ll find this entertaining. It also works well for couples or small groups looking for a relaxed activity that offers both learning and tasting.

However, if you’re traveling with children or non-drinkers, this might not be suitable, as the tour is strictly for guests 21 and older. Also, those expecting a lengthy behind-the-scenes tour might find 75 minutes on the shorter side, but the concise format keeps things lively without dragging.

Price and Value

While the exact ticket price isn’t detailed here, the tour’s length and inclusions point to a worthwhile investment — especially considering the quality of the guide, the variety of cocktails, and the educational content. It’s a good value for those interested in combining tasting with storytelling, rather than just a casual bar visit.

A Balanced View: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Engaging guides with humor and knowledge
• Tasty, well-crafted cocktails
• Authentic storytelling about Appalachian moonshine
• Short enough to fit into a busy day
• Visually appealing still house and setting

Cons:

• Limited to guests over 21
• Slightly expensive if compared to a casual drink at a local bar
• Short duration might leave some wanting more detail behind the scenes

Final Thoughts

The Gatlinburg: Cocktails Behind the Stave Tour offers a warm, informative, and tasty experience for those curious about spirits and Appalachian culture. It’s a well-organized activity that balances education with entertainment, making it a highlight for many visitors.

Whether you’re a spirits enthusiast, history buff, or just looking for a relaxed way to learn about Gatlinburg’s moonshine roots, this tour provides a memorable glimpse in a friendly setting. It’s especially recommended for groups seeking a lively, engaging, and authentic experience with a touch of regional pride.

For those who value knowledgeable guides, flavorful cocktails, and a taste of local heritage, this tour will likely be a highlight of your Gatlinburg trip. Just be sure you’re prepared for a spirited adult-only outing, and plan accordingly to maximize your enjoyment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this tour is only for guests 21 years and older due to the alcohol tastings involved.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 75 minutes, making it a quick but impactful activity.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking allows you to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

What will I see during the tour?
You’ll tour the still house, observe the distillation process, and learn about the craft of making award-winning spirits.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight guides like Jesse, Jeff, and Matt for their humor, friendliness, and extensive knowledge.

What types of spirits are featured in the cocktails?
The cocktails include whiskey, vodka, and moonshine, showcasing Sugarlands’ range of products.

Is the experience suitable for someone interested in the craft of distilling?
Absolutely. The tour emphasizes the process of craft distilling and the stories behind each product.

Will I be able to purchase spirits afterward?
While not explicitly mentioned, most distilleries offer bottles for sale at the end of the tour.

How much does the experience cost?
The exact price isn’t specified here, but considering the content, it offers good value for those wanting a guided tasting and story.

In essence, the Gatlinburg Cocktails Behind the Stave Tour is a well-rounded, flavorful introduction to Appalachian moonshine culture, perfect for adult visitors seeking fun, education, and great drinks in a lively setting.

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