Explore Tennessee Sips & Spirits
Not sure where to start? Pick the pour that fits your mood, the destination on your map, or the next stop on your sipping bucket list — and let’s go.
Distilleries, tastings, and tradition.
Bold flavors and mountain roots.
Scenic vineyards and local sips.
From Nashville to the Smokies.
Classic recipes, Southern twist.
Craft beer and local flavor.
How Tennessee Became a Sipping State
Tennessee whiskey has been crafted here for generations. What sets it apart? The Lincoln County Process — filtering whiskey through charcoal before barreling. It’s not just a step. It’s a Tennessee tradition.
Moonshine runs just as deep. Long before it was legal, mountain families in the Smoky Mountains were turning corn into liquid gold. That heritage lives on today in the distilleries and tasting rooms dotting East Tennessee.
And it doesn’t stop there. Tennessee’s wine scene has been quietly growing for decades, with more than 50 wineries now scattered across the state. And the craft brewery movement? Booming — from Nashville and Knoxville to Chattanooga, every kind of sipper has something worth raising a glass to.
🌲 Trekkn Facts
Did you know real Tennessee whiskey can only be made in Tennessee? State law requires it to follow the Lincoln County Process — filtering through sugar maple charcoal before aging.
Moonshine gets its name from being distilled by moonlight — to avoid getting caught!
Tennessee has over 50 licensed wineries. Most visitors are surprised by that number!
A Few of Our Favorites
From smoky distilleries to scenic vineyards — these are a few favorite sips and spirits stops we keep coming back to. We’re always adding more, so check back often!
How to Make a Peach Whiskey Cocktail for Golden Hour
A sunset in the Smokies is like no other, and this peach whiskey cocktail captures that moment in a glass. We call it the Smoky Mountains Sunset cocktail because its layers say it all—grenadine settles to the bottom while orange juice, Tennessee whiskey, and peach schnapps create a warm sunset glow. If you’re looking for…
Star-Spangled Shine: A July 4th Cocktail Everyone Will Love
Red, white, and blue… the Fourth of July celebrations are almost here, and this festive Tennessee twist is ready to take center stage. If you’re looking for one of the best 4th of July cocktail recipes, this colorful Tennessee moonshine cocktail is perfect for backyard barbecues, fireworks, and gathering with the people you love. With…
Great Valley Wine Trail: Indulge in the Rich Flavors of East Tennessee
If you love pretty drives and a good pour, the Great Valley Wine Trail is calling your name. Set in East Tennessee just outside Knoxville and an easy drive from the Smoky Mountains, this wine trail rolls through four scenic Tennessee wineries and vineyards — each with its own personality, its own pour, and a…
12 Smooth Tennessee Whiskeys You Need to Try
Tennessee whiskey has become one of the state’s most recognizable traditions, and it’s easy to see why. From world-famous labels to small distilleries crafting impressive bottles, every pour tells a story of history, craftsmanship, and Tennessee pride. If you’re searching for the best Tennessee whiskey, this guide highlights well-known classics, hidden gems, and smooth bottles…
Big Machine Distillery Tours: 2 Must-Visit TN Whiskey Stops
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Tennessee and also want to explore a few distilleries along the way, these two whiskey tours at Big Machine Distillery are a great pick in middle TN. With one tour in Lynnville offering a quiet countryside feel, and another tour in Nashville with a kick of…
Tennessee Whiskey Trail: Sip Your Way to Epic Tastings
Looking for a fun way to explore the Volunteer State? The Tennessee Whiskey Trail is a must. These whiskey tours take you to Tennessee distilleries where you can sip, learn, and enjoy the stories behind each pour. Tennessee whiskey is made only in Tennessee, and it’s known for a smooth taste. The key difference is…
Sip Your Way Across Tennessee
From the misty mountains of East Tennessee to the heart of Nashville and beyond — there’s a great sip waiting in every corner of the Volunteer State.
the smokies & East Tennessee
This is moonshine country. Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are home to Ole Smoky, Sugarlands, and Old Forge — plus Company Distilling in Townsend. Try a tasting room and sample all the flavors. The perfect sip stop after a day in the Smokies.
nashville & middle Tennessee
Nashville’s sip scene goes way beyond honky tonks. Historic distilleries like Belle Meade and Nelson’s Green Brier are minutes from downtown. Lynchburg is home to Jack Daniel’s — world’s best-selling American whiskey. And the cocktail bar scene? Absolutely thriving.
memphis & West Tennessee
West Tennessee is the quieter side of the sip trail. Old Dominick anchors downtown Memphis with craft whiskey and vodka, while scenic wineries and local breweries dot the countryside. Pair a bourbon with Memphis barbecue — pretty perfect night.
Frequently Asked Questions About TN Sips & Spirits
Still curious about Tennessee’s sipping scene? Here are answers to some of the most common questions we get from fellow sippers and travelers.
Tennessee whiskey must be made in Tennessee and filtered through charcoal before barreling. It’s called the Lincoln County Process — and it’s what gives Tennessee whiskey that smooth, signature finish.
Yes! Tennessee made commercial moonshine legal in 2009. Today you’ll find licensed distilleries all over the state — especially in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
Tennessee is home to over 50 wineries, from the Smoky Mountain foothills to the rolling hills near Nashville. Wine trails like the Rocky Top Wine Trail make it easy to hop from one to the next.
Nashville leads the way with craft bars and hidden speakeasies. Chattanooga has a fun scene too — and don’t sleep on Knoxville.
Yes! Tennessee’s craft beer scene is booming. You’ll find standout breweries in Nashville, Knoxville, Chattanooga, and even small mountain towns.
Most are! Kids are welcome at nearly all Tennessee distilleries and wineries — they just can’t taste (21+ only). It’s a fun, behind-the-scenes peek the whole family will enjoy.
Your Tennessee Trip Starts Here
Ready to sip your way across Tennessee? Whether you’re planning a weekend distillery run or a full spirits road trip, here’s everything you need to make it happen — hotels, cabins, flights, and more.
Happy Trekkn’, Friends!
We love everything about Tennessee sips and spirits — from the first pour at a mountain distillery to a slow afternoon at a scenic winery. We hope this guide helps you find your perfect sip across the Volunteer State.
Stay tuned — we’re always adding new favorite spots and seasonal picks.
Raise a glass somewhere amazing? Tag us @TennesseeTrekkn so we can celebrate with you
Explore More of Tennessee
Thirsty for more Tennessee adventures? Here are a few favorites to keep exploring:
→ Smoky Mountains — From waterfalls to trails, the Smokies are always worth the trip.
→ Places to Stay in TN — Cabins, hotels, and hidden gems across the Volunteer State.
→ Tennessee Hiking — Hit the trails and discover Tennessee’s most beautiful outdoor spots.
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