Cocke County Distillery

Located in historic Newport, Cocke County Distillery carries on East Tennessee's storied moonshine tradition with their small-batch spirits. The distillery's rustic tasting room offers visitors a chance to sample authentic mountain moonshine while learning about the region's colorful distilling heritage from the owner, who shares fascinating local stories and production insights during tastings.

The distillery produces traditional clear moonshine along with several flavored varieties, all made using time-tested local recipes and techniques. While the quality of their spirits consistently impresses visitors, the distillery's irregular operating hours have become a significant challenge for tourists planning visits. We strongly recommend calling ahead to confirm they're open before making the trip.

When you do catch them open, the intimate tasting experience provides a genuine glimpse into Appalachian moonshine culture. The owner's extensive knowledge of regional distilling history and traditional production methods adds depth to each visit. The tasting room's simple, no-frills atmosphere lets the spirits take center stage.

Cocke County Distillery represents an important piece of Newport's moonshine heritage, though its unpredictable schedule can make planning difficult. While operating hours are posted, visitors frequently report arriving to find the facility closed or unstaffed. Those who manage to time their visits right praise both the quality of the spirits and the authentic mountain distillery experience. For the best chance of a successful visit, try calling multiple times in advance and have a backup plan in case the distillery is unexpectedly closed.