EXPLORING LOCAL WINERIES, BREWERIES, DISTILLERIES, AND THE SPIRITS OF THE SMOKIES
In the shadow of the Great Smoky Mountains, an area celebrated for its stunning vistas and deep-rooted cultural tapestry, lies a burgeoning scene of craft beverages as rich and inviting as the mountains themselves. Here, the traditional arts of moonshining, winemaking, and innovative brewing converge, offering a taste of local flavors and a toast to the traditions of the Smokies.
Savor the Tradition of Moonshine
Moonshine, with its notorious past and Appalachian roots, has now been embraced as a cultural icon of the Smoky Mountains. Distilleries like Ole Smoky Moonshine in Gatlinburg have opened their doors to the curious and the connoisseurs alike, offering an authentic glimpse into the storied art of mountain distilling. Visitors can sample flavors that range from the traditional clear corn liquor to creative infusions like apple pie and peach, all while tapping their feet to live music that fills the mountain air.
Discover the Art of Winemaking
The fertile valleys of the Smokies also nurture vineyards that produce wines reflecting the character of the region. The Rocky Top Wine Trail is an inviting journey through the heart of the Smokies’ wine country, with stops in Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg. Wineries such as Mountain Valley Vineyards offer tours that trace the journey from vine to bottle, and complimentary tastings allow guests to savor a spectrum of local wines, from the sweet Southern muscadine to robust reds and delicate whites.
Experience the Craft of Brewing
The craft brewing movement has found a welcoming home in the Smokies, where local breweries like Gatlinburg Brewing Company and Smoky Mountain Brewery are crafting beers that capture the adventurous spirit of the region. These breweries have become community hubs where travelers and locals mingle over pints of hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, and everything in between, often paired with hearty, brew-friendly fare and the lively backdrop of local music.
Tour and Taste
The Smoky Mountains offer a unique opportunity to dive deep into the craft beverage world with tours that showcase the passion and craftsmanship of local producers. These experiences provide an intimate understanding of the processes, personalities, and stories behind each sip. Curated tour packages often include visits to multiple establishments, creating a comprehensive palate of the Smoky Mountains’ libations.
Pairing Your Adventures
A day spent in the Smokies can be beautifully capped off with a visit to one of these artisanal outposts. Whether it’s after a day of hiking through the misty mountains or exploring the cultural offerings of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, a tasting session at a local winery, brewery, or distillery offers the perfect reflective pause, adding another layer to the Smoky Mountains experience.
The Craft Beverage Scene in the Smokies
The burgeoning craft beverage scene in the Smoky Mountains is a vibrant representation of the region’s blend of history, innovation, and community. This spirited aspect of the Smokies is not just about the drinks—it’s about the shared moments, the stories told over a glass, and the warm hospitality that welcomes every visitor.
In the Smoky Mountains, from historic moonshine distilleries to charming wineries and boundary-pushing breweries, there is a rich landscape of tastes waiting to be explored. These establishments not only serve up locally crafted beverages but also tell the story of a region steeped in tradition and brimming with creativity. Raise a glass to the spirits of the Smokies, and savor the local flavors that make this region truly unique.