A Whiskey-Lover’s Welcome to Nashville
There’s no denying it, whiskey runs deep in Tennessee’s veins. It’s more than just a spirit here; it’s a story. A legacy. A living, breathing tradition passed down through generations of master distillers, bootleggers, innovators, and storytellers.
Of course, most people think of Jack Daniel’s first, and rightfully so. The world’s best-selling American whiskey is proudly made in Lynchburg, just a couple of hours outside Nashville. But those in the know understand that Nashville itself has quietly become one of the most exciting whiskey cities in the country.
It’s where new-school meets old-school. You’ll find speakeasies tucked behind unmarked doors, family-run distilleries reviving pre-Prohibition recipes, and luxury tours that let you sample whiskey straight from the barrel while talking mash bills with award-winning blenders.
In short, Nashville is a dream destination for whiskey lovers. Whether you’re planning a long weekend or a single celebratory night out, this guide will help you navigate tastings, tours, bottle shops, and barstools like a seasoned local.
What makes whiskey in Tennessee unique? It starts with the water. Thanks to mineral-rich limestone, Tennessee has some of the purest water for fermentation and distillation in the world. Add in locally grown corn and rye, small cooperages building oak barrels by hand, and a devotion to the charcoal filtering process known as the Lincoln County Process, and you get a spirit with unmistakable smoothness and depth.
But Nashville doesn’t just rest on tradition. It’s where experimental infused ryes, barrel-finished bourbons, and whiskey-cocktail workshops are redefining what a whiskey tasting can be. Here’s a round-up of the the 10 best whiskey experiences in Nashville.
If your idea of heaven is a flight of whiskeys, a local guide walking you through notes of spice and caramel, and a late-night bar with a leather-bound menu of rare bottles, then you’re in the right city.
Whiskey 101 in Tennessee
Whether you’re new to whiskey or brushing up before a distillery tour, it’s worth understanding the basics of what makes Tennessee whiskey so distinctive—and how it differs from bourbon, rye, and other American whiskeys.
What Is Tennessee Whiskey?
Tennessee whiskey is a type of straight whiskey made exclusively in Tennessee and defined by a specific process that sets it apart: the Lincoln County Process. This involves filtering the whiskey through sugar maple charcoal before it’s aged in new charred oak barrels.
It’s more than a marketing gimmick—it’s a legal requirement. To be called Tennessee whiskey, a spirit must:
Be made in Tennessee
Follow the same basic laws as bourbon (at least 51% corn, aged in new charred oak barrels, etc.)
Be charcoal mellowed before aging
This extra filtration step gives Tennessee whiskey a signature smoothness that makes it easy to sip and even easier to love.
A Little History
The Lincoln County Process dates back to the early 1800s, when settlers began using sugar maple charcoal to mellow their moonshine. It stuck and became a defining part of Tennessee’s whiskey tradition. While the method was nearly forgotten during Prohibition, it was reintroduced and ultimately codified in Tennessee state law in the 20th century.
Tennessee Whiskey vs. Bourbon vs. Rye
Here’s how to tell your sips apart:
Tennessee Whiskey - 51% corn - Smooth, mellow, slightly sweet - Charcoal mellowing (Lincoln County) - Must be made in Tennessee
Bourbon - 51% corn - Full-bodied, sweet, oaky - No mellowing - Primarily made in Kentucky & beyond
Rye Whiskey - 51% rye - Spicy, dry, peppery - No mellowing - Made in the U.S. (esp. KY, NY, IN)
So, is Tennessee whiskey bourbon?
Technically… yes. But legally and culturally, it stands on its own. All Tennessee whiskey meets the requirements of bourbon, but it goes a step further with that mellowing process, which bourbon does not require. Think of Tennessee whiskey as bourbon’s smoother cousin.
Tasting Tips: How to Sip Like a Pro
Whether you're walking into a distillery or ordering a flight at a bar, here’s how to approach your whiskey like a true connoisseur:
Look - Hold the glass to the light and observe the color. Darker whiskey often means longer aging or smaller barrels.
Swirl - Gently swirl and look at the "legs" (streaks on the glass). Slower legs usually indicate a higher proof or richer mouthfeel.
Smell - Inhale with your mouth slightly open to avoid the alcohol burn. Look for notes of vanilla, caramel, baking spices, oak, or fruit.
Sip - Take a small sip and let it roll over your tongue. Notice how it changes. Sweet at first, then spicy or dry on the finish.
Savor - Don’t rush. Many whiskeys evolve in the glass over time. Let the second sip linger longer than the first.
Adding a few drops of water to a high-proof whiskey can “open it up” and reveal hidden flavors.
Hi, I'm Christine Wheatley, the owner of A Little Local Flavor. Whiskey is woven into my family, my food tour, and my city. Eight years guiding visitors through Nashville has shown me which distilleries are worth the drive, which bars genuinely care, and which experiences will make you fall in love with Tennessee whiskey. If you're planning your trip to Nashville, this is your map.
Where to Taste Whiskey in Nashville (Tastings + Distilleries)
From boutique operations to revived legends, Nashville offers something for every whiskey enthusiast. Whether you prefer guided tastings or casual walk-in experiences, these are the distilleries that define the city’s whiskey scene.
Standard Proof Whiskey Co. - Infused Rye in a Stylish Setting
Standard Proof Whiskey Co. is a bold and flavorful addition to Nashville’s whiskey scene, and one of the most unique tasting experiences in town. Unlike traditional distilleries, Standard Proof focuses on barrel-aged rye whiskey infused with real botanicals, spices, and fruit, creating expressions that are smooth, sippable, and cocktail-ready.
Their downtown tasting room, just steps from Broadway, offers a stylish yet laid-back space to sample these one-of-a-kind whiskeys. Whether you’re a whiskey purist or totally new to the spirit, their infused lineup is designed to surprise and delight.
What started as a bartender’s experiment has grown into a standout brand offering flavors like:
Arabica Coffee Rye – Bold, roasted notes perfect for an after-dinner sip
Texas Pecan Rye – Nutty, mellow, and subtly sweet
Mint Rye – Cool and refreshing, a modern twist on a classic julep base
Ginger Rye – Spicy and zesty with just the right bite
Pineapple Rye – Bright, tropical, and surprisingly smooth
Cinnamon Rye – Warm, complex, and named Best Flavored Whiskey in the World at the 2022 World Whiskey Awards
Each flavor is crafted with care, starting with high-quality rye whiskey that’s aged in American oak barrels before being infused with real ingredients—no artificial flavors or shortcuts.
I always tell our guests that Standard Proof is the ‘gateway whiskey.’ Somehow, their infusion process takes away a lot of the harsh rye whiskey bite which makes it an approachable whiskey for first timers, or those who haven’t enjoyed it in the past.
Christine Wheatley · Owner, A Little Local FlavorWhy It’s a Must-Visit:
Standard Proof bridges the gap between the whiskey world and craft cocktails. You can enjoy a flight, a single pour, or a cocktail made fresh behind the bar. It’s also an ideal stop for both seasoned whiskey drinkers and curious newcomers.
“This isn’t your granddad’s whiskey, it’s creative, balanced, and endlessly fun to sip.”
The space feels like a mix of speakeasy and creative studio with exposed brick, warm lighting, and a long bar where tastings double as storytelling sessions. You can try a flight, enjoy a custom cocktail, or chat with staff about how to pair infused whiskey with food.
Why it’s special: These aren’t gimmick infusions. They’re complex, layered, and surprisingly versatile, even whiskey purists find themselves surprised.
Bonus: Guests on our Downtown Nashville Food Tour get to taste Standard Proof’s infused rye as part of the experience. It’s a guest favorite and a unique way to explore local innovation.
“Between the food, the music, and the infused whiskey, this tour hit all the right notes.”
Anthony Zhang · Google Review
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Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery – A Nashville Whiskey Legacy, Reborn
Few distilleries in Nashville can claim a story as compelling, or as deeply tied to the city’s history as Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery. Founded in the 1800s by German immigrant Charles Nelson, this once-thriving whiskey empire produced more than 2 million bottles a year before Prohibition shut it down in 1909.
For more than a century, the brand lay dormant—until Charles’s great-great-great-grandsons, Andy and Charlie Nelson, stumbled upon the family legacy during a road trip with their father. The brothers revived the brand in 2009, honoring their ancestor’s recipes while bringing a modern Nashville flair to the operation. Today, their distillery is one of the most beloved stops for both locals and visitors.
Why It’s a Must-Visit
Nelson’s Green Brier is the perfect blend of historic storytelling, craftsmanship, and hospitality. Located in the Marathon Village complex, home to artisan shops, chocolatiers, and other local makers, the distillery offers an immersive experience that starts with history and ends with a glass in your hand. It’s also just 5 minutes from Downtown Nashville, so an easy ride share or scooter away.
Tour highlights include:
A deep dive into the family’s rags-to-riches-to-revival story (including original photos, documents, and artifacts from the 1800s).
A behind-the-scenes look at the production floor, where you’ll see fermenters bubbling and barrels aging.
A guided tasting of Nelson’s signature products.
What to Taste
Nelson’s doesn’t just make one whiskey—they offer a range that appeals to casual sippers and whiskey nerds alike.
Nelson’s Green Brier Tennessee Whiskey - A nod to the original family recipe, mellowed through the Lincoln County Process and aged to perfection. Smooth, balanced, and versatile.
Nelson Brothers Classic Bourbon - A bold yet approachable bourbon with notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice.
Nelson Brothers Reserve Bourbon - Higher proof, richer flavor—perfect for sipping neat.
Special Cask Finishes - Limited releases aged in unique barrels (like cognac or sherry) for layered complexity.
Vibe & Crowd
The tasting room blends historic charm with modern Nashville energy. Brick walls, warm wood, and industrial touches set the scene, while friendly guides make even whiskey first-timers feel right at home. Expect a mix of travelers, couples, small groups, and a steady flow of locals who keep coming back for limited releases.
Local Tip
If you’re visiting on a weekend, book your tour in advance—spots often sell out. Afterward, stroll through Marathon Village to explore local shops and grab a snack. If you’re lucky, you might catch a live bottling session in action.
Why It’s Special
Nelson’s isn’t just another whiskey brand, it’s a piece of Tennessee history brought back to life. The story is so compelling that it’s hard not to feel connected to it by the time you leave. And for me personally? This is my favorite distillery in Nashville and I recommend it to guests on almost every tour.
“This was the highlight of our trip to Nashville. The history was fascinating, the whiskey was excellent, and our guide made the whole experience fun and engaging. We left with two bottles and a new favorite bourbon.”
Sharon Miller · Google ReviewHow to Visit
You can visit on your own or book your Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery Tour in advance to guarantee your spot. Tours typically run about an hour and include multiple tastings.
Nashville Barrel Company - For the Whiskey Nerd in All of Us
Nashville Barrel Co. is a hidden gem with a cult following, and for good reason. These folks don’t distill whiskey themselves. Instead, they do something equally important: they select, finish, and bottle the best barrels they can find from distilleries across the country.
Every bottle is:
Single-barrel
Cask strength
Hand-selected by their small team of experts
This makes every tasting different. You might sample a 6-year rye with notes of black cherry and leather, or a bold 9-year bourbon heavy on vanilla and burnt sugar. No two barrels are alike, and that’s exactly the point.
Nashville Barrel Co. has quickly racked up major accolades, including:
#4 in Fred Minnick’s National Blind Tasting
Multiple Double Gold and Platinum awards at top spirits competitions
A fiercely loyal local and national fan base
Why it’s special: If you love unique bottles, bold flavor, and whiskey education, this is your spot. Bring a notebook - you’ll want to remember what you tried.
You can choose from:
Flight from the Barrel: Enjoy the rare opportunity of tasting whiskey straight from the barrel with this whiskey–tasting experience at a Nashville distillery. Explore a variety of different whiskey styles, while learning fun facts you’d miss if you were in a bar. Samples to pick from include bourbon, rye, and Tennessee Whiskey - with three drams included in the experience.
Swap busy bars for a whiskey-tasting session at a distillery
Hassle-free experience with three tastings included
Learn about different whiskey styles from a master blender
Savor whiskey straight from the barrel at its full cask strength
Read more about - Nashville Barrel Co "Flight from the Barrel" Whiskey Tasting
Premium Guided Tasting: Our Whiskey expert will guide you through several spirits and not only will you get to taste the difference between the styles, but you will get to ask questions and "geek out" in a fun environment. Most of these offerings are at Cask Strength so you will get to sip and learn at the same time. This is a 30 to 45 minute experience.
Read more about - Nashville Barrel Co Premium Tasting Experience with Guide
Jack Daniel’s Distillery Tour
Bus Tour to Jack Daniels with Live Music and BBQ Lunch – Where the Journey Is Half the Fun
There are plenty of ways to get from Nashville to Lynchburg. This bus tour is for people who don’t want to waste a single minute of the experience.
This Jack Daniel’s Distillery day trip turns what could be a long, quiet ride into a full-blown Nashville-style good time. You’ll depart downtown Nashville in the morning and immediately get swept into the fun with live music, whiskey-fueled trivia, sing-alongs, and the infamous Tipsy Tours Dance Contest. By the time you roll into Lynchburg, the group already feels like friends.
Once you arrive, the pace shifts from party to iconic Tennessee whiskey history. You’ll join a guided tour of the legendary Jack Daniel’s Distillery, walking the grounds where one of the most famous whiskeys in the world has been made for over 150 years. You’ll learn about the Lincoln County Process, see where the whiskey is crafted, and finish with a guided tasting of six Tennessee whiskey expressions.
After the distillery, it’s time to slow things down and eat well. A BBQ lunch is included and served in Lynchburg’s charming town square, giving you time to refuel, explore a bit, and soak in the small-town atmosphere that feels worlds away from Broadway.
Then it’s back on the bus for the ride home where the energy ramps right back up. Expect more music, more laughs, and plenty of stories as you head back to Nashville in the afternoon, arriving mid-day with memories already locked in.
What’s Included
Admission to the Jack Daniel’s Distillery guided tour
Guided whiskey tasting with six samples
BBQ lunch in Lynchburg
Bottled water
Live entertainment on board
Tipsy Tours trivia and dance contest
Why It’s Special
Most tours focus only on the destination. This tour delivers the full experience. You skip the lines, skip the boring bus ride, and get a day that blends live music, whiskey culture, Southern food, and pure Nashville energy. It’s social, lively, and unforgettable without feeling rushed.
If your idea of the perfect Nashville trip includes Tennessee whiskey, music, laughter, and a little chaos in the best way, this is the tour people talk about long after they get home.
You don’t just visit Jack Daniel’s. You earn the story that goes with it.
Pennington Distilling Co. - Grain-to-Glass Craftsmanship
Located in the Nations neighborhood, Pennington Distilling Co. is a true Nashville original. Owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Jeff and Jenny Pennington, the distillery has been producing award-winning spirits since 2011 and is one of the few in Tennessee to manage every step of the process on-site.
Their core whiskey lineup includes:
Davidson Reserve Tennessee Whiskey - filtered with the Lincoln County Process, aged 4+ years
Davidson Reserve Straight Rye - bold, spicy, and rich
Davidson Reserve Bourbon - made with Tennessee corn and aged to perfection
What sets Pennington apart:
They use non-GMO grains sourced from local Tennessee farms
Everything is distilled, aged, and bottled in-house
They also produce Pickers Vodka, Walton’s Vodka, and Midnight Moonshine
Their tour walks you through the full operation: from mash tanks and fermenters to barrel warehouses and bottling. The tasting room is stylish but relaxed, and the staff are some of the most knowledgeable (and friendly) in town.
Why it’s special: This is the place to go if you want to understand the entire whiskey-making process. Their commitment to local agriculture and sustainability is unmatched in the city.
Want to experience Pennington Distillery? Tour it along with a few breweries on the Distillery + Brewery Tour.
Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey - The Most Awarded Whiskey Brand in America
It’s rare to find a brand that combines powerful storytelling, historic restoration, and absolute excellence in the bottle. Uncle Nearest does all three, and then some.
Founded in 2017 by entrepreneur and author Fawn Weaver, the brand honors Nathan “Nearest” Green, a formerly enslaved man who became the first known African-American master distiller in the U.S. He taught Jack Daniel how to make whiskey.
In just a few years, Uncle Nearest has become:
The most awarded American whiskey brand (1,100+ awards since launch)
Winner of “World’s Best Whiskey” and “Spirit of the Year” (Bartender Spirits Awards, 2025)
A trailblazer in diversity: Weaver is the first Black woman to lead a major spirits brand, and their leadership team is entirely female (we love this for so many reasons!)
The distillery, located in Shelbyville, is worth the 90-minute drive. Dubbed “Malt Disney World,” the campus includes:
A welcome center and museum gallery
The Humble Baron Bar (the world’s longest bar top!)
A tasting hall, cocktail lab, live music venue, and upscale restaurant
You’ll learn not only about whiskey but about legacy, race, entrepreneurship, and family. It’s powerful, personal, and unforgettable.
Why it’s special: This isn’t just a distillery visit - it’s an experience that reshapes how you think about American whiskey and the people who built it.
Want to experience the legendary history for yourself? You can get to Shelbyville in style on the Uncle Nearest Bus Tour. It leaves from Nashville and includes your tour and all tastings.
Best Whiskey Tours in Nashville
There’s nothing better than sitting back, relaxing, and letting a professional guide take you behind the scenes of Nashville’s best whiskey experiences. Whether you’re looking for luxury, variety, or a mix of spirits and scenery, these curated tours make it easy to sip your way through the city.
Distillery Tour by Van - Luxury Whiskey Tasting Done Right
When it comes to all-inclusive, luxury whiskey experiences, this tour sets the bar high. These expert-led excursions offer access to distilleries you might not find on your own, along with tastings, barrel room walkthroughs, and food pairings that elevate the entire experience.
Top Experience: Nashville’s Premier Whiskey & Bourbon Tour
Small group (8–10 people max)
4 hours, includes 3 distillery visits
Barrel samples + tasting from bottles not available to the public
Food pairings to help explore flavor profiles
Transportation provided in a comfortable, air-conditioned van
Led by certified whiskey stewards and distillers
It’s more than just sipping, it’s a true education in the art of whiskey.
“You’ll learn how to taste, how to pair, and how to spot a great bottle, without the pressure of a sales pitch. It’s worth every penny.”
Tour GuestBook Nashville’s Premier Whiskey Tour Here
Premier Distillery & Craft Brewery Bus Tour - Something for Everyone
If you’ve got a mixed group with some whiskey lovers and some beer fans, this tour is the perfect balance. You’ll hop on a comfortable bus and head to 3 to 4 tasting locations, including distilleries like Nelson’s Green Brier and Pennington, and breweries like Tennessee Brew Works or New Heights.
3 hours total
9 to 12 alcohol tastings included
Friendly, knowledgeable guide
Stops rotate based on availability, but the whiskey focus remains strong
The tour is laid back and great for birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or anyone looking to sample a little bit of everything without needing to plan a thing.
Reserve Your Distillery + Brewery Tour Here
Hands-On Whiskey Experiences
Tennessee Whiskey Workshop - Shake, Stir, and Sip Like a Pro
Looking for a hands-on way to dive into Tennessee whiskey? The Tennessee Whiskey Workshop is one of Nashville’s most fun and interactive experiences. It’s perfect for cocktail lovers, birthday groups, or anyone who wants to do more than just sip.
Led by hospitality pros like Chris Mallon, this 90-minute session teaches you to make three different versions of the Old Fashioned, each one using Tennessee whiskey as its base. You'll learn bartender secrets, tasting tips, and local whiskey history as you shake, stir, and sip your way through a guided cocktail class.
What’s Included:
Expert-led cocktail instruction (90 minutes total)
3 full-size craft cocktails made by you
Stories, laughs, and whiskey education
East Nashville location (easy to reach)
Whether you're a cocktail nerd or a total beginner, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for Tennessee whiskey, and some new bar skills to show off.
“This is not a sit-and-sip tour. It’s a roll-up-your-sleeves, pour-the-bourbon, and stir-it-yourself kind of night.”
Best Whiskey Bars + Flights in Nashville
You don’t have to go on a distillery tour to get a world-class whiskey experience in Nashville. The city’s cocktail scene is overflowing with creative bartenders, curated bourbon libraries, and moody speakeasies perfect for slow sipping. Here’s our full list of our favorite whiskey bars in Nashville.
The Fox Bar & Cocktail Club (East Nashville)
Tucked into the back of an unassuming building, The Fox is beloved for its quiet atmosphere, beautiful design, and expert bartenders. The whiskey list is impressive, and they offer thoughtfully curated flights featuring both rare and regional spirits.
Gertie’s Bar at The 404 Kitchen (The Gulch)
If you want a whiskey list that reads like a novel, Gertie’s is your spot. Tucked behind The 404 Kitchen, this intimate bar features over 200 bourbons and whiskeys, and the staff are happy to guide you through a flight based on your taste.
Old Glory (Edgehill Village)
This industrial-chic bar inside a former boiler room feels like a whiskey cathedral: soaring ceilings, exposed brick, and a serious bar program. You’ll find regional whiskeys, creative cocktails, and a scene that leans hip but welcoming.
Acme Feed & Seed (Downtown)
Acme’s rooftop is one of the best in the city, and their whiskey list is a pleasant surprise. You’ll find local bottles featured alongside national favorites, and the food menu makes it easy to make a night of it. Head to the 2nd floor for the best whiskey selection.
Honorable Mentions
Patterson House - Velvet booths, serious mixology, great Tennessee whiskey list
Whiskey Bent Saloon - Loud, lively, and located on Broadway, perfect for people-watching with a pour in hand
Skull’s Rainbow Room - Classic cocktails and burlesque vibes in Printer’s Alley
Whiskey Stops on Our Downtown Food Tour
Our Downtown Nashville Food Tour is more than just a delicious afternoon, it’s a journey through the stories, flavors, and people who make this city so special. And for whiskey lovers, one of the standout stops is Standard Proof Whiskey Co.
Located in a sleek tasting room tucked away just off Broadway, Standard Proof is known for its infused rye whiskeys, aged in American oak and finished with bold, natural flavors like coffee, pecan, cinnamon, and honeysuckle. On our tour, guests get to enjoy a sample of their signature pour, often served in a handcrafted cocktail that highlights the infusion.
But what really makes this stop special is the local connection. We’ll introduce you to the team, share stories of how the brand was born behind a Nashville bar, and show you what makes this local whiskey company a rising star in the spirits world.
“We ended with a fabulous old-fashioned cocktail with infused rye whiskey at Standard Proof. The whole thing was amazing.”
Gretchen Schmidt · Google ReviewWhy It Belongs on a Whiskey Crawl
Standard Proof isn’t a traditional distillery with stills and mash tanks, it’s a flavor-first whiskey house that bridges the gap between cocktail lovers and whiskey purists. That makes it the perfect introduction (or finale) to a downtown whiskey tour.
Where to Buy Bottles of Local Whiskey
After you’ve sipped your way through Nashville, you’ll probably want to take a bottle or two home—and luckily, there are some excellent places to do just that.
Best Liquor Stores for Whiskey Shoppers
Frugal MacDoogal – A massive selection near downtown with a strong local whiskey section and helpful staff.
Midtown Corkdorks Wine, Spirits & Beer – Centrally located, knowledgeable employees, and often stocks single-barrel or distillery-exclusive offerings.
Red Spirits & Wine (Bellevue) – Worth the drive for their premium whiskey wall and top-tier bourbon selection.
Check to see if they have single-barrel store picks from local distilleries like Pennington or Nashville Barrel Co. These one-of-a-kind bottles often showcase a unique flavor profile.
Can You Fly Home with Whiskey?
Yes! You can check whiskey in your luggage, provided the bottle is unopened and under the 70% alcohol content limit. Most travelers bring home 750ml to 1L bottles with no issue.
Be sure to wrap your bottle well (some shops offer travel bags) and place it in the center of your suitcase padded by clothes.
Plan Your Whiskey Weekend in Nashville
To really savor Nashville’s whiskey scene, we recommend at least 48 hours. Here’s how to make the most of your time, whether you’re flying solo or planning a bourbon-filled birthday weekend with friends.
Day 1: Welcome to Whiskey Country
Morning: Grab brunch at Pinewood Social (they serve bourbon-spiked coffee).
11am to 2pm: Join our Downtown Nashville Food Tour for a full lunch of curated bites and your first whiskey tasting.
Evening: Sip cocktails at The Fox Bar or head to Skull’s Rainbow Room for live music and elevated pours.
Day 2: Distillery Day
Morning: Head to Nelson’s Green Brier for a guided tour and tasting of their historic bourbons.
Lunch: Grab a bite at the on-site restaurant or at Martin’s BBQ.
Afternoon: Book the Nashville Barrel Co. Premium Tasting to sample cask-strength whiskey straight from the barrel.
Evening: Go big with the Mint Julep Premier Whiskey Experience—a van tour to three top distilleries with food pairings and private barrel tastings.
Optional Day 3: Explore + Shop
Build your own crawl and make stops at Pennington, Standard Proof, and Gertie’s Bar.
Hit up Frugal MacDoogal or Midtown Corkdorks to grab bottles to-go.
Take the Tennessee Whiskey Workshop and learn how to use the great Tennessee whiskey you bought.
End your trip with a celebratory pour (on the 2nd floor) and rooftop view at Acme Feed & Seed.
If you’re planning a special occasion, we can help you book a private whiskey-themed food tour or recommend top distilleries for group experiences.
Make Whiskey the Highlight of Your Trip
Whether you’re a bourbon buff, a rye devotee, or just whiskey-curious, Nashville is the place to sip, learn, and fall in love with Tennessee’s most beloved spirit.
Book your Downtown Nashville Food Tour today and taste Standard Proof Whiskey with us
Explore premium whiskey experiences like Nashville Barrel Co. and Mint Julep’s award-winning tour
Download our FREE Whiskey Crawl Map (coming soon) or sign up for email updates to get insider tips!
Frequently Asked Questions About Whiskey in Nashville
What whiskey is Nashville known for?
Nashville is known for several standout whiskeys, including Nelson’s Green Brier Tennessee Whiskey, Davidson Reserve from Pennington Distilling Co., and Standard Proof’s infused rye whiskeys. While Jack Daniel’s is produced outside the city, Nashville itself is home to award-winning craft distilleries and tasting rooms.
Where can I taste whiskey in Nashville?
You can taste whiskey in Nashville at:
Standard Proof Whiskey Co. (infused rye)
Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery (historic bourbon)
Nashville Barrel Company (barrel tastings)
Pennington Distilling Co. (Tennessee whiskey + rye)
Many of these offer full tasting rooms and guided experiences. You can also try whiskey at top bars like Gertie’s, Acme Feed and Seed, and Old Glory.
Are there whiskey tours in Nashville?
Yes! Popular whiskey tours in Nashville include:
Our Downtown Food Tour, which includes a whiskey cocktail at a local distillery
What's the difference between Tennessee whiskey and bourbon?
Tennessee whiskey follows the same rules as bourbon but adds a charcoal mellowing step called the Lincoln County Process. This gives Tennessee whiskey a smoother, more refined taste. All Tennessee whiskey is technically bourbon, but not all bourbon is Tennessee whiskey.
Can I bring whiskey home from Nashville?
Yes. You can bring unopened bottles of whiskey home in your checked luggage if traveling by plane. Most travelers have no issue bringing back bottles from Nashville distilleries, especially if wrapped securely. Some shops offer travel-safe bottle bags.
What is the most awarded whiskey brand in Tennessee?
Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey holds the title of the most awarded American whiskey brand, with over 1,100 medals and honors. It was founded by Fawn Weaver and honors Nathan “Nearest” Green, the formerly enslaved man who taught Jack Daniel how to distill.
Can you visit Uncle Nearest distillery from Nashville?
Yes. The Uncle Nearest Distillery is located in Shelbyville, TN, about 90 minutes from Nashville. It’s a full destination experience with a whiskey tasting room, bar, restaurant, museum, and live music. Tours run Thursday through Sunday and are highly recommended.
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