Hillbilly Booze Cruise Tasting Tour

Setting out on a 3-hour tasting tour in Sevierville, the Hillbilly Booze Cruise offers a peek into the local Appalachian spirits scene. For $99 per person, you’ll visit four different stops — from family-owned distilleries to a scenic winery — all with a small group of no more than seven travelers. Your day begins at Bigfoot Philly Cheesesteaks, where you’ll meet your guide, and ends back at the same spot, making it a convenient, round-trip experience.

We love the idea of visiting off-the-beaten-path locations away from crowded tourist spots, and this tour promises just that — a more authentic look at local alcohol traditions. The stops include a family-run Moonshine Depot, the Old Tennessee Distilling Company, Mountain Brothers Brewing, and a family-owned winery at the foothills of the Smokies. The focus on local, craft spirits and scenic views makes for a potentially memorable day.

However, it’s important to note that the tour has received mixed feedback. Some find the stops enjoyable and the experience worth the price, while others have been disappointed by the level of guidance and organization. A key consideration is that the tour is quite informal — the driver reportedly asks guests where they want to go and doesn’t always have tastings lined up beforehand, which may impact your overall experience.

This tour might suit those who appreciate small, personalized groups and authentic local flavor. If you’re looking for a guided, educational experience with expert commentary, this might not be your top choice. But if you enjoy relaxing, casual visits with a focus on tasting and scenic views, you could find some joy here.

Key Points

• Authentic local visits: Focus on small, family-owned distilleries and a scenic winery.
• Flexible experience: The guide’s approach can be informal, asking guests where they want to go.
• Cost and duration: At $99 for about 3 hours, it’s a moderate price for a tasting tour.
• Group size: Limited to 7 travelers, fostering an intimate vibe.
• Limited guidance: Some reviews mention a lack of detailed information from the guide.
• Best suited for: Travelers seeking a casual, laid-back experience with tastings and scenic views.

A Detailed Look at the Hillbilly Booze Cruise

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour kicks off at 2005 Wears Valley Rd, a central spot in Sevierville, with pickup around 3:00 pm. The first stop is Moonshine Depot, a family-run distillery where you can get a real sense of Appalachian moonshine traditions. Here, you’re likely to experience a warm, personal atmosphere, as it’s described as a place where craft has been passed down through generations. However, be aware that admission tickets are not included in the tour cost, so planning ahead for tastings or souvenirs may be necessary.

Next, you’ll head to Old Tennessee Distilling Company in Kodak. This stop is praised for its delicious, smooth moonshine, made from local corn with bold flavors. Guests often mention the enjoyable tasting experience, and some appreciate the chance to laugh and share stories in a relaxed setting. Again, no included admission, so be prepared for a straightforward tasting.

The third stop is Mountain Brothers Brewing Company, where local craft beers are on offer. This is a good chance to sample regional brews, with the option to purchase a full pour if you want to linger. The scenery here is complemented by the brewery’s cozy atmosphere, making it a nice break from spirits-focused stops.

Finally, the tour concludes at Tennessee Mountain View Winery, perched near the foothills of the Smokies. Guests can enjoy a selection of wines while taking in stunning vistas. This scenic finale offers a relaxed environment perfect for unwinding and soaking in the mountain views.

The Transportation and Group Dynamics

The experience begins with pickup in a mini-van, which some reviewers note can feel a bit cramped or informal. With a maximum of 7 travelers, the group size is intimate, allowing for more personal attention; however, some reviewers mention that the driver was unsure about tastings and did not provide much commentary. One reviewer recounted that the driver was asking guests where they wanted to go, rather than having a set itinerary ready.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

The highlight of this tour is its focus on local, family-owned establishments that you might not visit on your own. This offers a sense of discovering hidden gems, especially if you’re interested in authentic Appalachian spirits and scenic views. The stops often feature delicious tastings and a chance to meet the locals behind the brands.

On the downside, the lack of structured guidance can leave some feeling unsure about what they’re tasting or the history behind each place. The lone review available describes a somewhat disorganized experience, with the guide asking where to go and not providing much context about the spots visited. This might be disappointing for travelers hoping for an educational or more curated experience.

Pricing and Value

At $99 per person, the tour is priced in the mid-range for small-group alcohol tastings. While some guests find it a fun and relaxed way to sample local spirits, others feel the lack of guided commentary diminishes the overall value. The fact that tastings are not included in the price and that admission to each stop is separate may also impact perceptions of worth.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for laid-back travelers who enjoy scenic drives, local flavor, and tasting without the need for detailed historical explanations. If you’re comfortable with a more spontaneous and informal tour, you’ll likely appreciate the intimate setting and the chance to explore small distilleries. However, if you prefer a more guided, educational experience, or expect detailed commentary and organized tastings, this might not meet your expectations.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Hillbilly Booze Cruise offers a casual glimpse into Smoky Mountain spirits, emphasizing the charm of family-owned distilleries and scenic views. Its small group size and focus on authentic local businesses are definite pluses for those seeking a relaxed, more personal experience.

That said, the mixed reviews highlight the importance of setting the right expectations. If you’re hoping for a tightly organized tour with in-depth stories and expert guidance, you might be disappointed. However, if you enjoy sampling local offerings in a laid-back setting, and don’t mind a bit of informality, this could be a fun addition to a Smoky Mountain trip.

This tour can be a good choice for those seeking authenticity over polish — a chance to enjoy some local spirits, beautiful mountain views, and a relaxed vibe. Just be prepared for a more casual, sometimes unstructured experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
No. You must be 21 or older to participate, as it involves alcohol tastings.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, including transportation between stops.

Are the tastings included in the price?
No, tasting fees are not included and are paid separately at each stop.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 7 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at the designated meeting point in Sevierville.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed.

Do I need to bring my ID?
Yes, you must bring a valid ID to prove you are 21 or older.

What should I expect from the guide?
Based on reviews, the guide’s approach seems informal — asking guests where they want to go and providing minimal commentary. If you prefer a highly guided experience, this might not be ideal.

Final Note

The Hillbilly Booze Cruise offers a laid-back, intimate look at some of the Smoky Mountain area’s local spirits and scenic views. It’s best suited for travelers who value authenticity over structure and are happy to enjoy a casual, sometimes unplanned, tasting adventure. While it may not satisfy those seeking a highly guided or educational experience, it can add a touch of Appalachian charm to your trip — especially if you’re willing to go with the flow.