The Best Moonshine Distilleries in the Smoky Mountains
The Sevierville–Pigeon Forge–Gatlinburg corridor is home to some of the most authentic craft distilleries in America. But with dozens of options, knowing where to spend your time — and your palate — matters. Here's an insider look at the standout stops along the route, and what makes each one worth your time.
Tennessee Shine Co.
One of the original Crawl Founder Partners, Tennessee Shine Co. is where heritage meets craft. Their traditional corn whiskey recipes trace back generations, and the tasting room staff know the history behind every bottle. Start here if you want to understand what real Appalachian moonshine is supposed to taste like.
Mountain Cut Distillery
Mountain Cut is where the craft gets experimental. Small-batch runs, unusual mash bills, and a willingness to push the category forward make this one of the most interesting stops on the corridor. Their limited-edition expressions sell out fast — if you see one you like, don't wait.
Sugarlands Distilling Co.
Sugarlands is the corridor's most decorated distillery, with a trophy case that backs up the hype. Their lineup spans traditional corn whiskey to fruit-forward flavored expressions, and the production facility tour is one of the best in the region. A must-visit for anyone serious about understanding how craft moonshine is made.
Junction 35 Spirits
Named for the crossroads of Highways 321 and 441 — the heart of the Smoky Mountains corridor — Junction 35 brings a modern sensibility to Appalachian spirits. Their whiskey program is ambitious, and the tasting room experience is polished without losing the regional character that makes this area special.
What to Look for at Any Distillery Stop
The best distillery visits share a few things: staff who can talk about the mash bill and the still, spirits that taste like they came from somewhere specific, and a story that goes deeper than the label. On The Moonshine Crawl™, every stop is chosen because it delivers all three. Ask questions. Taste slowly. Buy a bottle of something you can't find anywhere else.
See Them All on The Crawl
The Moonshine Crawl™ visits the Crawl Founder Partners — Tennessee Shine Co., Mountain Cut Distillery, Sugarlands Distilling Co., and Junction 35 Spirits — plus additional stops depending on your crawl date. Every ticket includes guided tastings, transportation aboard The Crawler, and the exclusive Crawl Band™.
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