10 Tennessee Whiskey Distilleries That Deserve a Spot on Your Itinerary

Tennessee whiskey has earned its place among the world’s finest spirits, crafted with care in the heart of the South. From historic landmarks to modern innovators, the state offers distilleries that blend tradition with creativity, each providing unique experiences for visitors.

Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey enthusiast or just starting your journey, these destinations promise memorable tastings, fascinating tours, and a true taste of Tennessee hospitality.

1. Jack Daniel’s Distillery — Lynchburg

No trip through Tennessee whiskey country feels complete without visiting the birthplace of Old No. 7. Jack Daniel’s has been producing its signature smooth whiskey since 1866, making it America’s oldest registered distillery.

Walking through the grounds feels like stepping back in time, with historic buildings and the famous cave spring that provides the iron-free water essential to their process.

Tours guide you through the charcoal mellowing process that defines Tennessee whiskey, then into massive barrel warehouses where the magic happens. The air smells rich and oaky, and guides share stories about Jack Daniel himself—a man who started distilling at just 13 years old. Tastings let you sample the classic Old No. 7 alongside special editions you won’t find everywhere.

2. Cascade Hollow Distilling Co. — Tullahoma

Home to George Dickel whiskey, Cascade Hollow sits in the rolling hills of Middle Tennessee where pure water flows through limestone. The distillery has been crafting smooth, mellow whiskey since 1870, using a unique chilling process before charcoal filtering that sets it apart from other Tennessee whiskeys.

Tours take you through both historic and modern facilities, showing how tradition meets technology. You’ll see massive fermentation tanks, gleaming copper stills, and rows of aging barrels stacked high in warehouses. Guides explain the “chill charcoal mellowing” technique that gives George Dickel its distinctive character.

3. Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery — Nashville

Brothers Charlie and Andy Nelson brought their great-great-great-grandfather’s whiskey brand back to life after it disappeared during Prohibition. The original Green Brier distillery was once Tennessee’s largest, producing whiskey that rivaled Jack Daniel’s in popularity during the 1800s.

Located right in Nashville, the distillery offers convenience alongside quality—you don’t need to drive far into the countryside. Tours reveal the resurrection story while showcasing beautiful copper equipment and the whiskey-making process from grain to glass.

The tasting room features their flagship Belle Meade Bourbon alongside experimental releases and limited editions.

4. Uncle Nearest, Inc. — Shelbyville

Named after Nathan “Nearest” Green, the first known African-American master distiller, this brand tells an important story often left out of whiskey history. Nearest taught Jack Daniel how to distill whiskey, perfecting the charcoal filtering method that became the foundation of Tennessee whiskey. The distillery honors his legacy while producing award-winning spirits that have quickly gained national recognition.

The Shelbyville location sits on a beautiful property with stunning architecture and thoughtfully designed spaces. Tours emphasize Nearest’s contributions and the people behind the brand today, many of whom are his descendants.

You’ll learn about the Lincoln County Process and taste whiskeys that have won numerous competitions despite being relatively new to the market.

5. Leiper’s Fork Distillery — Franklin

Tucked away in the scenic countryside near Franklin, this small-batch distillery offers an intimate alternative to larger operations. Everything here is handcrafted with attention to detail, from the carefully selected grains to the slow aging process.

Tours are personal and relaxed, often led by the distillers themselves who genuinely love what they do. You’ll see the entire operation up close, ask questions, and understand what makes small-batch distilling special. The whiskey reflects this careful approach—smooth, complex, and full of character that only comes from hands-on production methods.

After your tasting, explore the charming community of Leiper’s Fork, known for its art galleries, antique shops, and friendly local atmosphere that makes you feel welcome.

6. Corsair Distillery — Nashville

If you’re looking for something different, Corsair pushes boundaries with experimental spirits and creative flavor combinations. This isn’t your grandfather’s whiskey distillery—it’s a playground for innovation where traditional rules get respectfully bent.

Tours reveal unusual ingredients and techniques, like smoking grains over different woods or aging in alternative barrels. The distillers aren’t afraid to try wild ideas, resulting in whiskeys with quinoa, spelt, or other unexpected components.

Tastings let you sample everything from smoked whiskey to barrel-aged gin, with knowledgeable staff explaining the thinking behind each creation and what makes it unique in today’s craft spirits world.

7. Ole Smoky Distillery — Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg’s most famous distillery brings energy and entertainment to the whiskey experience. Ole Smoky started as Tennessee’s first legal moonshine distillery, celebrating the region’s bootlegging heritage with flavored spirits and traditional white lightning. The atmosphere is lively and tourist-friendly, with live music, enthusiastic staff, and generous tastings that get everyone smiling.

While moonshine is their specialty, whiskey drinkers will find plenty to enjoy among their expanding lineup. The location serves as a perfect gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, making it an ideal stop before or after mountain adventures.

The gift shop overflows with creative bottles and merchandise, and the whole experience feels like a party that celebrates Tennessee’s distilling traditions with modern flair and mountain hospitality.

8. Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery — Chattanooga

Chattanooga Whiskey brought distilling back to the city after a century-long ban, starting a craft spirits revolution in the scenic riverside town. Their experimental approach means constantly testing new mash bills, yeast strains, and aging techniques to discover what makes great whiskey even better.

Tours are hands-on and educational, with opportunities to smell grains, taste mash, and understand fermentation in ways most distilleries don’t offer. The guides encourage questions and genuine curiosity about the science and art behind whiskey-making.

You’ll leave understanding not just what Tennessee whiskey is, but why certain choices create specific flavors.

9. Company Distilling — Thompson’s Station

This newer addition to Tennessee’s whiskey scene has quickly earned respect for quality spirits and stunning design. The property includes beautiful outdoor areas perfect for sipping cocktails while enjoying the Tennessee countryside.

Their whiskey program focuses on doing fewer things exceptionally well rather than offering dozens of products. Tours showcase state-of-the-art equipment and careful attention to every production detail. The cocktail bar serves creative drinks that highlight their spirits, mixed by bartenders who understand both classic techniques and modern innovation.

Industry insiders are paying attention to Company Distilling’s releases, which have garnered awards and positive reviews despite being relatively new to the market.

10. Tennessee Legend Distillery — Sevierville

Located in the heart of Smoky Mountain country, Tennessee Legend offers approachable tastings that welcome both whiskey novices and experienced enthusiasts. Their lineup includes traditional Tennessee whiskey alongside flavored options like salted caramel and orange that appeal to different palates. The staff creates a friendly, no-pressure environment where you can discover what you genuinely enjoy.

Tours explain the basics of distillation without overwhelming visitors with technical jargon, making it perfect for families or groups with varying knowledge levels. The facility is clean, modern, and designed for comfortable exploration. You’ll see copper stills at work and learn how flavored spirits are created without artificial ingredients.