Bourbon & Blood: A Tennessee Whiskey History & Tasting Experience

Bourbon & Blood: A Tennessee Whiskey History & Tasting Experience offers a compelling look into Nashville’s Prohibition-era roots, blending the gritty tales of bootlegging and crime with the vibrant world of Tennessee whiskey. Priced at $44.95 per person and lasting around two hours, this tour combines storytelling, whiskey tastings, and a walk through historic Printer’s Alley, making it perfect for enthusiasts of spirits and true crime alike.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its immersive storytelling that transports you back to a time when Nashville was a hub of illicit activity, all while sampling some of the finest Tennessee whiskeys. The visit to three carefully chosen tasting rooms gives an authentic taste of the local spirit scene, with flights curated to showcase a range of flavors. Plus, the tour’s stop at the historic Printer’s Alley adds a lively sense of place, with its dark past of speakeasies and underground gaming.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is strictly dress coded—men need to wear a collared shirt and closed toe shoes—so packing a smart casual outfit is advisable. Also, note that tastings are not included in the ticket price, so you’ll be purchasing drinks separately, which still offers a good value considering the quality of the venues visited. This tour is excellent for history buffs, whiskey lovers, and those wanting a lively, educational look at Nashville’s rebellious side.

If you enjoy stories that mix a bit of gossip, crime, and spirits, and you’re ready to explore Nashville’s past while tasting some of its best whiskey, this tour will suit you perfectly.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling about the Prohibition era and Nashville’s criminal past.
• Visits to three premium tasting rooms with curated whiskey flights.
• Historic walk through Printer’s Alley, a famous site of speakeasies and bootlegging.
• Guided by knowledgeable experts who bring Nashville’s history to life.
• Strict dress code: men need collared shirts and closed shoes.
• Tastings are sold separately, so budget for drinks at each venue.

A Closer Look at the Tour: What to Expect

This tour weaves together history and spirits in a way that feels both fun and educational. It begins at Standard Proof Whiskey Co., a place where infused whiskies challenge your palate. We loved the unique flavors and the way the guide explained the process behind these inventive spirits, making it more than just a tasting—it’s an experience for your taste buds. The tasting here is free with your admission, but you might want to bring cash or a card for additional pours or souvenirs.

Next, we visit the Nashville Barrel Company Distillery, founded in 2018 by a group of friends who are passionate about quality whiskey. Here, we got to taste their spirits—a delicious selection that reflects their dedication to craftsmanship. The atmosphere is casual but lively, emphasizing the community of Nashville’s modern whiskey scene. The fact that this stop is free makes it a good value, and the small size of the distillery lends an intimate feel.

The third stop is Printer’s Alley, a legendary street once full of speakeasies and underground gaming houses. Our guide took us on a walk through this historic street, sharing tales of clandestine activities and colorful characters from Nashville’s past. We loved the way the stories painted a vivid picture of the city’s rebellious side, making the walk more than just a sightseeing stroll. Visiting Printer’s Alley is a highlight that transforms historical facts into captivating stories, especially for fans of true crime and secret histories.

Finally, the tour wraps up at The Ariston, a speakeasy-inspired cigar bar that exudes vintage charm. This stop offers a relaxed environment where you can soak in more stories or simply enjoy a drink (sold separately). The setting is perfect for reflecting on what you’ve learned while sampling a carefully curated selection of Tennessee whiskey.

The Experience in Detail

Duration and Group Size: Lasting about two hours, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere with a maximum of 100 travelers, though most groups tend to be smaller. This allows for personalized attention from the guide and a more comfortable experience.

Walking and Transportation: The tour is primarily on foot, covering about a mile through historic Nashville streets. The stops are close together, making it easy to stay engaged without long walks or bus rides.

Guide Expertise: The guides are knowledgeable and personable, often sharing stories that go beyond the standard script. They bring Nashville’s history and spirit culture alive, which many reviewers note as a key part of the experience.

Cost and Value: At $44.95, this tour offers good value considering the three tastings, the storytelling, and the historic walk. Since tastings are sold separately, budget around $10-$15 per tasting if you wish to try the spirits at each stop. The inclusion of a guided experience adds a lot of value, especially for newcomers to whiskey or Nashville’s history.

Weather Considerations: The tour runs rain or shine. In case of severe weather, it will be rescheduled. Dress appropriately for the forecast, especially since outdoor walking is involved.

What We Love and What to Consider

What we love is the rich storytelling that makes history come alive. Our guide’s tales of Nashville’s bootlegging days made the past feel real and exciting. The curated whiskey flights at each tasting room are another highlight—offering a variety of flavors that showcase the depth of Tennessee spirits.

One potential drawback is the dress code requirement, which might catch some off guard if you’re expecting a casual experience. Also, since tastings are extra, it’s wise to budget accordingly, although the overall experience still feels like good value.

Who should book this? It’s ideal for history buffs, whiskey enthusiasts, and curious travelers who want a deeper understanding of Nashville’s colorful past—minus the crowds. The tour’s storytelling and historic locations appeal especially to those who enjoy a mix of education and entertainment.

Final Thoughts

Bourbon & Blood is far more than just a tasting tour; it’s a journey through Nashville’s rebellious spirit. You’ll leave with a better understanding of how whiskey and crime once intertwined to shape the city’s identity. The mix of knowledgeable guides, authentic historic sites, and quality whiskey makes this an engaging and memorable experience.

While it’s not a traditional bar crawl, the stops are well selected to give a well-rounded picture of Nashville’s liquor scene—both past and present. If you’re looking for something unique, lively, and educational, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially great for travelers who enjoy stories as much as spirits and want to see Nashville’s history through a different lens.

If you’re planning a trip and want a tour that’s informative yet fun, offers authentic local flavors, and takes you off the beaten path, Bourbon & Blood is worth considering.

FAQ

Is there an age restriction for this tour?
Yes. You must be at least 21 years old to participate and provide government-issued ID as proof of age.

Are tastings included in the ticket price?
No. Tastings are sold separately at each location, so you should plan to purchase drinks during the stops.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately two hours, with visits to three different sites.

Is the tour walkable?
Yes. The tour involves walking between stops on Nashville’s historic streets, primarily on foot.

What should I wear?
Guests are required to adhere to a strict dress code: men need to wear a collared shirt and closed-toe shoes, and casual athletic gear is not allowed.

Can the tour be canceled or rescheduled?
Yes. It proceeds rain or shine. In the case of severe weather, it will be rescheduled. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for non-whiskey drinkers?
Absolutely. The focus on history and storytelling makes it interesting even if you prefer not to taste spirits. Plus, the historic walk and stories about Nashville’s past are engaging for all.

To sum it up, Bourbon & Blood offers a well-balanced mix of history, culture, and spirits—perfect for those wanting a deeper dive into Nashville’s rebellious side. Its authentic storytelling, combined with quality locations and knowledgeable guides, makes it a standout experience. Whether you’re a whiskey fan, a history lover, or just curious about Nashville’s darker stories, this tour delivers a memorable journey into the city’s boozy, crime-ridden past.