When you’re in downtown Gatlinburg, stop by Tennessee Shine Co (formerly known as Doc Collier Moonshine Distillery) and take a step back in time to the days of old-fashioned country stores. Their moonshine tasting is an amazing experience, and there are games and curios to keep the teetotalers and little ones happy while you peruse their extensive menu. You’ll find everything from the earthy purity of unaged corn liquor to their fiery 100-proof corn whiskey. Tennessee Shine Co is the only shop in town to offer moonshine brandy, which is distilled from locally sourced wines.
Flavored moonshine is where Tennessee Shine Co truly “shines,” though some have balked at their low alcohol content. The fruity flavors (such as white peach, banana, and fruit punch) run as low as 40 proof. Others are around 60 or 80 proof. Drinkability, however, is what Tennessee Shine Co folks are aiming for, and they hit the mark admirably. Some of their flavors include Apple Pie, Root Beer Float, Electric Lemonade, Sweet Tea, and Cinnamon.
Tastings cost a small fee, but Tennessee Shine Co makes up for this by providing a voucher good for $5 off any purchase. So as long as you buy something, tastings might as well be free of charge. You can use this voucher at their country store if you don’t want to buy any liquor. But you definitely will! One nice thing about Tennessee Shine Co is that, unlike other distilleries in town, several different sizes are offered — from 750ml to 375ml to adorable mini bottles (that make excellent and affordable gifts, by the way).
Sure, some will find Tennessee Shine Co flavored moonshines a bit too sweet and light on booze, but there’s no denying how delicious their concoctions are. Purists can always opt for their unflavored ‘shines that pack a much heftier punch. A few patrons have claimed that their service can be a bit lackluster, but others praise how welcoming the staff members are.
Insider Tips:
-If you check online, you may find a coupon good for a free bottle of water. Take advantage! If you don’t find it, bring your own water so you can clear your taste buds between samples. It makes a world of difference.
-Tennessee Shine Co offers military and veteran discounts. You can also save 15 percent if you purchase several jars of ‘shine to take home.
-Bring a designated driver and complete tastings at several distilleries. The samples are small, but after a dozen of them (not to mention your other stops along the downtown strip) you may trust your own judgment, but the cops won’t.