TSM Verdict
The Verdict
Tennessee Shine Co. in Gatlinburg is a distillery tasting room and retail shop specializing in moonshine and whiskey tastings, not a sit-down restaurant. Its signature draw is a wide variety of creative moonshine flavors and slushees, offered in a casual, walk-in setting. Visitors come for the tasting experience and to purchase unique bottled spirits.
Worth it?
Yes, especially if you are near Gatlinburg.
Best order
Jalapeno Cornbread Moonshine, Cran Apple Moonshine, Orange Creamsicle Moonshine, Chocolate Moonshine Slushee
Best time
Lunch or early dinner
Verify
Check current hours before driving.
Go For
- Jalapeno Cornbread Moonshine
- Cran Apple Moonshine
- Orange Creamsicle Moonshine
- Chocolate Moonshine Slushee
- Watermelon Moonshine Slushee
Skip If
- You want a full meal or traditional restaurant menu
- You prefer non-alcoholic experiences
- You need substantial food options with your drinks
Before You Go
No food menu; tastings focus on moonshine, whiskey, and slushees only.
Decision Guide
Decision Guide
Is it worth visiting?
It's a great stop for adults interested in sampling inventive moonshine flavors and picking up local spirits. Best for those already exploring Gatlinburg or nearby and looking to add a tasting experience to their itinerary.
Best first order?
Jalapeno Cornbread Moonshine, Cran Apple Moonshine, Orange Creamsicle Moonshine, Chocolate Moonshine Slushee, Watermelon Moonshine Slushee
Best time?
Worth driving from Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge?
It's a fun addition to a Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge visit, but not a standalone destination for a long drive; best enjoyed as part of a local distillery crawl or Parkway walking tour.
Planner Snapshot
At a Glance
Location
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Cuisine
Distillery
Price
$$
Best meal
Lunch or early dinner
Families
Confirm fit before going
Planning fit
Best as part of a Gatlinburg stop
Duration
30-60 minutes
Price
$5-15 per person
Best For
Groups • Foodies • Adventure Seekers
Website
tnshineco.comPro tip: Don't be afraid to ask for a sample of the Jalapeno Cornbread Moonshine - it's surprisingly delicious and a unique flavor you won't find everywhere.
About Tennessee Shine Co
Step into Tennessee Shine Co, where traditional moonshine meets modern craft distilling in the heart of Gatlinburg. This family-owned distillery combines the charm of an old-fashioned country store with a state-of-the-art tasting room, offering visitors a genuine taste of Smoky Mountain spirits.
The distillery showcases a range of handcrafted moonshines and liquors, each made in small batches using time-honored techniques. Visitors can explore the retail space, which features rustic wood accents and local craftsmanship, while learning about the region's rich distilling heritage from knowledgeable staff members.
The highlight for many guests is the tasting experience, where you can sample various moonshine flavors - from traditional clear shine to fruit-infused varieties that capture the essence of mountain-grown ingredients. The staff guides you through each tasting, sharing stories about the distilling process and offering mixing suggestions for cocktails at home.
Beyond the spirits, Tennessee Shine Co's country store atmosphere invites you to browse local products, moonshine-themed merchandise, and unique gifts that reflect Gatlinburg's mountain culture. It's an ideal stop while exploring downtown, whether you're seeking a memorable souvenir or wanting to learn about authentic moonshine production.
The distillery's central location makes it easily accessible for visitors walking through downtown Gatlinburg. Like most local distilleries, tastings are available for guests 21 and over with valid ID, and the store welcomes families to explore the retail space. For those who find a favorite shine, bottles are available for purchase to take home where state laws permit.
Amenities & Features
- Standout bartenders (Kathy, Ryan, Cathy, Brittany) who create energetic, entertaining tastings with personality and passion
- Best prices in the area with great deals on moonshine and bourbon
- Wide variety of flavors available for sampling
- Clean facility with a welcoming atmosphere
Insider Tips for Tennessee Shine Co
Insider tips
Visitors most often point to Moonshine Tasting Experience, Blue Houdini Moonshine, and Jones Brother's 96 Proof Bourbon. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID if you want to taste; tastings are for guests 21 and over.
Budget for a small tasting fee and consider making a purchase so you can use the tasting coupon. If you want the widest flavor selection, ask about standard versus premium tasting options before paying.
Before you go
Plan around 30-60 minutes unless you are only stopping in briefly. Current price guidance on this page is $5-15 per person.
A website is linked here for direct confirmation of current details.
Menu Guide
What to Order at Tennessee Shine Co
Drink
Jalapeno Cornbread Moonshine
A signature moonshine flavor inspired by Southern jalapeno cornbread, blending sweet corn notes with mild heat for a unique tasting experience.
Drink
Cran Apple Moonshine
A fruit-forward moonshine combining cranberry and apple, frequently featured in tasting lineups for its crisp, refreshing profile.
Drink
Orange Creamsicle Moonshine
Creamy orange-vanilla moonshine, often highlighted for its nostalgic flavor and used in creative tasting combinations.
Drink
Chocolate Moonshine Slushee
A frozen slushee made with chocolate-flavored moonshine, described by guests as reminiscent of a Wendy’s Frosty.
Drink
Watermelon Moonshine Slushee
A sweet, frozen slushee featuring watermelon moonshine, praised for its refreshing taste during tastings.
Drink
Sour Razz Moonshine
A tart raspberry-style moonshine, served as part of tasting flights and noted for its bold, fruity flavor.
Drink
Butterscotch Moonshine
A sweet, candy-like butterscotch flavored moonshine, popular among guests for its rich dessert-like profile.
Best For
- Groups
- Foodies
- Adventure Seekers
- Adults Only
Know Before You Go
- Bring a valid government-issued photo ID if you want to taste; tastings are for guests 21 and over.
- Budget for a small tasting fee and consider making a purchase so you can use the tasting coupon.
- If you want the widest flavor selection, ask about standard versus premium tasting options before paying.
- The Gatlinburg location is on the Parkway, so allow extra time for traffic, walking, and parking during busy tourist hours.
Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit Tennessee Shine Co
Visit during weekday mornings for the calmest experience.
Tags
Traveler Questions
What makes Tennessee Shine Co. moonshine unique?
Tennessee Shine Co. is committed to respecting Appalachian moonshine distilling traditions, bringing you the finest moonshine and Tennessee whiskey that the Smoky Mountains have to offer. They offer unique flavors like Jalapeno Cornbread and Blue Houdini.
Do you offer tastings at the Gatlinburg location?
Yes, Tennessee Shine Co. locations offer moonshine tastings where you can sample a variety of their unique flavored moonshines and whiskeys.
Besides moonshine, what other types of alcohol do you sell?
In addition to a wide variety of moonshines, Tennessee Shine Co. also offers flavored whiskeys and bourbon, including Jones Brother's 96 proof Bourbon.
Can I purchase Tennessee Shine Co. products online?
Yes, you can purchase their moonshine and whiskey products online and have a taste of Tennessee delivered to you.
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