Sip History in Music City Cocktail Making Class

A Hands-On Journey Through Nashville’s Cocktail and Bootlegging Past

If you’re looking to combine learning, sipping, and a bit of history in Nashville, the “Sip History in Music City Cocktail Making Class” is a fun choice. For $97 per person, you get about two hours of engaging, interactive fun at a cozy retro bar location near downtown Nashville. Led by a personable local guide (like Jacob, who gets rave reviews), this experience offers a mix of hands-on cocktail making, stories about Tennessee whiskey, and the city’s elusive bootlegging days.

What we really appreciate is how this tour doesn’t just give you drinks but also digs into Nashville’s storied past with alcohol—from Prohibition-era speakeasies to modern craft cocktails. Plus, it’s a small-group experience, capped at 18 people, which keeps the vibe intimate and conversational. One minor consideration: since it’s a 2-hour class, it’s best suited for those ready to shake, stir, and listen rather than just sip and sit.

This experience is perfect if you enjoy interactive activities with a local flavor, especially if you’re curious about the history behind Nashville’s beloved cocktails. Food lovers will also enjoy the curated bar snacks, adding a nice touch of flavor to the drinks.

Key Points

• Interactive Experience: You’ll shake, stir, and learn to make three cocktails yourself.
• History & Stories: The guide shares insights on Tennessee whiskey and Nashville’s bootlegging past.
• Small Group: With a maximum of 18, it offers personal attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Curated Snacks: Enjoy specially selected bar snacks alongside your drinks.
• Location & Timing: Starts at 2:00 pm in downtown Nashville, easy to reach by public transport.
• Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility.

The Detailed Breakdown of Your Cocktail Class

Starting at Golden Sound Nashville on Magazine Street, your 2-hour journey begins promptly at 2:00 pm in a vintage-style bar setting. The venue’s atmosphere plays a crucial role—think cozy, nostalgic, with a touch of Nashville’s musical and bootlegging roots. This isn’t just a cocktail lesson; it’s a step back into the city’s lively, sometimes mischievous past.

Getting Hands-On with the Cocktails

The highlight of this experience is the opportunity to step behind the bar and make three different cocktails under the guidance of your local expert. Expect to learn the techniques of shaking, stirring, and garnishing. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned home bartender, the pro tips shared will boost your confidence. One guest enthusiastically reported, “We learned a lot about cocktail culture in the US over the 20th century,” which shows the tour’s educational value.

Stories and History Behind the Drinks

Beyond the technical side, the guide shares fascinating stories about Nashville’s cocktail and bootlegging history. These stories add a layer of entertainment and context—think of it as a mini history lesson with each sip. You might find yourself more appreciative of the Tennessee whiskey used in many drinks, or understanding how Nashville’s speakeasy culture influenced modern cocktails.

What You’ll Make and Drink

The three cocktails included give you a well-rounded tasting experience. While the specific drinks aren’t listed, reviews mention a preference for classics like the Clover Club, hinting at vintage-style drinks that highlight both history and flavor. The curated bar snacks complement your cocktails, making for a balanced session of sipping and nibbling.

The Atmosphere & Group Size

With a maximum of 18 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate, friendly environment. Expect jokes, stories, and a relaxed vibe—ideal if you enjoy learning in a social setting. Reviewers have praised Jacob’s engaging style, making the class both informative and fun.

Accessibility & Practical Details

The meeting point at Golden Sound Nashville is in close proximity to public transportation, making it easy to join without hassle. Since the tour is booked on mobile tickets, you can smoothly check in and start your experience without fuss. The class ends back at the starting point, perfect if you want to explore more of Nashville afterward.

Worth the Price?

At $97, this class offers good value if you’re interested in learning the craft of cocktails and enjoying a lively, historically flavored experience. The inclusion of three cocktails, snacks, and expert guidance makes it a worthwhile investment for those curious about Nashville’s spirited side.

Why We Think This Tour Works

We love that this experience isn’t just about drinking; it’s about storytelling, learning, and engaging. The chance to make your own cocktails means you’re not just a passive participant but an active creator, which often leads to a more memorable experience. On top of that, the stories about Nashville’s bootlegging history provide context that enhances your appreciation of local spirits and the city’s cultural quirks.

The class’s focus on pro tips can also boost your home bartending skills, making it a practical souvenir of your Nashville trip. And since the experience is capped at 18, it maintains a cozy, personal feel that larger tours often lack.

Potential Drawbacks to Consider

The main consideration is the duration—two hours might be a bit tight if you prefer more relaxed, wandering sightseeing. Also, with only three cocktails included, those looking for a more extensive tasting might find this limited. Lastly, the timing at 2:00 pm means it’s best suited for an afternoon activity rather than an evening out.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for history buffs with a taste for spirits, curious travelers who want to learn by doing, and anyone who enjoys small-group, interactive activities. It’s a particularly good fit if you appreciate stories about local culture and want to leave with new cocktail skills. Foodies and social types will enjoy the snacks and lively atmosphere, making it a perfect afternoon or early evening activity.

FAQ: Questions You Might Have

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed for all skill levels. Whether you’re new to making cocktails or have some experience, you’ll learn useful techniques and enjoy the process.

How many cocktails will I make?
You will have the opportunity to make three cocktails during the class, which you then get to enjoy.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, so you can book with confidence.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Golden Sound Nashville at 610 Magazine Street and ends back at the same location, making it easy to plan your day around.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While suitable for adults of all ages, it’s primarily geared toward those who appreciate spirits and cocktails. Underage participants might not find it appropriate unless accompanied by adults.

How accessible is the location?
The meeting point is near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers staying in or near downtown Nashville.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an engaging, educational, and hands-on activity that combines Nashville’s lively spirit with its historic tales, this cocktail class hits the mark. It offers a great balance of fun, learning, and local flavor, all within a cozy setting. Perfect for curious travelers, cocktail lovers, or anyone looking to add a unique story to their Nashville trip.

Best suited for those who want more than just sightseeing, this experience delivers a memorable time where you leave not only with new drinks skills but also a deeper appreciation for Nashville’s colorful past. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, expect a lively, authentic, and well-organized journey into the city’s spirited side.