Uncle Nearest Green Distillery Tour from Downtown Nashville

If you’re exploring Nashville and want to venture beyond the country music scene, the Uncle Nearest Green Distillery tour offers a compelling glimpse into American whiskey history. This guided bus trip, which departs from downtown Nashville, combines storytelling, tastings, and a bit of Southern charm—all in about five hours.

While it might seem like just another whiskey tour at first glance, this experience stands out for its focus on Nathan Nearest Green, the man credited with teaching Jack Daniel how to distill Tennessee whiskey and widely recognized as the first African American Master Distiller. It’s a chance to learn about a pioneering figure whose legacy elevates the craft and history of whiskey-making.

Two aspects we really appreciate are the educational depth of the guided tour and the chance to sample some outstanding Uncle Nearest whiskeys, which are rapidly gaining national recognition. On the flip side, potential visitors should note that the tour involves some walking and steps, and the distillery isn’t located directly on the same grounds as the original Jack Daniel’s.

This tour is especially well-suited for those interested in American history, whiskey aficionados, or travelers seeking a meaningful experience that combines culture with a taste of Tennessee’s spirits. It’s also ideal for visitors who appreciate a well-organized, informative outing that doesn’t break the bank.

Key Points

• Educational storytelling about Nathan Nearest Green and his influence on whiskey-making.
• Guided tasting of Uncle Nearest whiskey, with insight into what makes this brand unique.
• Convenient transportation from downtown Nashville, saving hassle and time.
• Time-efficient with about 5 hours total, including travel, tour, tasting, and free time.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Good value for the price of $119, considering the guided tour, transportation, and tastings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to a Historic Legacy

This tour offers a neat blend of history, culture, and spirits—perfect for travelers who want more than just a tasting session. The journey begins in downtown Nashville, a strategic departure point near the Omni Hotel, where you’ll meet your guide right in front of Bobs Steak & Chophouse. The bus itself is comfortable, air-conditioned, and typically of a size that ensures you’re not overwhelmed by crowds but still feel like part of an intimate group.

What immediately appeals is the way the tour emphasizes Nathan Nearest Green’s pivotal role in whiskey history. Born in Tennessee into slavery, Nearest Green became renowned locally for his expertise in distilling, especially for perfecting the Lincoln County Process—filtering whiskey through sugar maple charcoal. This process is what makes Tennessee whiskey distinct from bourbon and is a key part of the story you’ll hear on the tour.

The Journey and Arrival

The bus departs at 1:30 PM, and the roughly 60-minute ride to Nearest Green Distillery is a good opportunity to get acquainted with fellow whiskey enthusiasts or simply enjoy some Tennessee scenery. Many reviews mention that the transportation is smooth, and the driver is knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience comfortable from start to finish.

Arriving around 2:30 PM, you’ll step onto the grounds of the distillery, which, while not on the original site of Jack Daniel’s, is a large and impressive operation. Here, the guided 90-minute distillery tour takes you through the process of whiskey production, with a focus on the man behind the recipe. You’ll learn about Nathan Green’s legacy and how Jack Daniel hired him as his first master distiller—not only a career milestone but also a landmark moment for African American influence in spirits.

What’s noteworthy here is the educational component: the guide shares stories of Nearest Green’s skill and the lasting impact he had on whiskey-making. Several reviews praise the guides for their knowledge and storytelling ability, making the history come alive.

Tasting and Exploration

After the tour, you’ll be treated to a guided whiskey tasting, featuring Uncle Nearest’s award-winning spirits. The tasting is more than a sip; it’s an insight into what makes Uncle Nearest whiskey special—its smooth profile and the craftsmanship behind each bottle. One reviewer notes that they received approximately “1 shot worth of whiskey,” which is enough to appreciate the flavor but not so much that it becomes overwhelming.

Once the tasting concludes, you’ll have time to explore the grounds. Options include visiting the on-site restaurant, Barrel House BBQ, or checking out the Humble Baron bar—the longest bar in the world, as claimed. They also sell bottles of Uncle Nearest whiskey, including some distillery-exclusive releases, making this a great chance to pick up a unique souvenir.

Many visitors appreciate the ample free time to stroll, relax, or grab a bite, enhancing the overall value of the experience.

The Return Trip and Evening in Nashville

Departing around 5:30 PM, the bus heads back to Nashville, arriving roughly at 6:30 PM. This schedule is perfect for those wanting to spend the evening in the city, perhaps grabbing dinner or enjoying Nashville’s nightlife.

And although the day is packed, the experience is well-paced, with enough time to digest the stories and flavors without feeling rushed.

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Practical Details and Tips

The tour costs $119 per person, which covers transportation, the distillery tour, whiskey tasting, and some leisure time. Considering the inclusion of guided insights and the convenience of door-to-door service, many travelers find this to be excellent value—especially compared to booking individual tastings or transportation separately.

What to bring: Passport or ID card is essential for the tasting, and dressing in layers is advisable since the tour runs rain or shine. Keep in mind, there are no bathrooms on the bus, so plan accordingly.

Accessibility: Be aware that the tour involves ascending and descending steps, making it less suitable for those with mobility challenges.

Flexibility: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now with the option to pay later, which offers added flexibility.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Most reviews are highly positive. Shannon, for instance, praised the knowledgeable guide Brent and the engaging storytelling, mentioning a “fun and informative” experience. Others appreciated the smooth logistics, with comments about seamless pickup and dropoff.

Some noted minor disappointments, like not being able to purchase food at the distillery due to a wedding event or the tasting size being limited. Yet, overall, the consensus is that the combination of history, spirits, and scenery makes this tour well worth the price.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits history buffs, whiskey lovers, and curious travelers seeking a meaningful cultural exploration. If you enjoy learning about American stories and spirits, you’ll appreciate the depth of storytelling and the quality of Uncle Nearest whiskey. It’s also a good fit for those who prefer organized, guided excursions rather than navigating independently.

However, it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or anyone under 21, as ID verification is required, and steps are involved. The tour also runs rain or shine, so come prepared for weather.

In The Sum Up

The Uncle Nearest Green Distillery tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience that combines history, craftsmanship, and tasting. Its focus on Nathan Green’s legacy provides a fresh perspective on Tennessee whiskey, elevating it beyond a simple tasting to a cultural lesson.

The convenience of transportation from Nashville, coupled with the knowledgeable guides and a chance to sample award-winning whiskey, makes this tour a smart choice for those wanting a memorable, educational outing. It’s a perfect option for whiskey enthusiasts eager to connect with the stories behind their favorite spirits and for visitors wanting to deepen their understanding of Tennessee’s diverse heritage.

If you value storytelling, quality, and authenticity on your travels, this tour is likely to resonate with you.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve ahead, especially during peak travel times, to secure your spot and take advantage of flexible cancellation.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers transportation, the guided distillery tour, whiskey tasting, and free time to explore the grounds.

Where do we meet?
Meet in front of Bobs Steak & Chophouse near the Omni Hotel at 250 Rep. John Lewis Way South.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, including travel, touring, tasting, and free exploration.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Not recommended for children under 21, and the tour involves steps, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.

Will I get a chance to buy whiskey?
Yes, bottles of Uncle Nearest whiskey are available for purchase at the visitor center, including special releases.

What should I bring?
Bring a valid ID or passport, dress appropriately for weather, and plan for no bathroom facilities on the bus.

Does the tour run rain or shine?
Yes, the tour is scheduled to run regardless of weather, so dress accordingly.

Whether you’re a whiskey enthusiast or simply curious about the story behind this significant figure, the Uncle Nearest Green Distillery tour offers a meaningful and enjoyable outing. It’s a chance to experience Tennessee’s heritage in a relaxed, informative setting—definitely worth considering during your Nashville visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: