“You’re as smooth as Tennessee whiskey”
“Tennessee Whiskey” by Chris Stapleton
“Oh, I’ve got friends in low places
Where the whiskey drowns and the beer chases my blues away”
“Friends in Low Places” by Garth Brooks
Many country songs croon about whiskey–particularly bourbon and Tennessee whiskey–associating it with themes of heartbreak, love gone wrong, or seeking solace in a bottle.
But after visiting the top 5 downtown Nashville distilleries below–with their award-winning and unique varieties–you’ll be singing the praises of Nashville’s remarkable craft distillery culture. Whether you’re a whiskey enthusiast, a bourbon connoisseur, or just appreciate a good cocktail, find out why the world’s greatest songwriters agree upon one topic: the glory of a good whiskey.
Get a Taste of These Nashville Distilleries
Corsair Distillery & Taproom
- Bar Type: Warehouse bar with outdoor patio
- Famous For: Corsair Triple Smoke American Single Malt Whiskey
- Spirit/Drink Recommendations: Smokey Old Fashioned
- Location: Marathon Village
- The buzz: Corsair Distillery stands out for its innovative and experimental approach to distilling. They experiment with different grains, aging methods, and barrel finishes, resulting in whiskeys that are distinct and unconventional. This dedication to innovation has earned them recognition and accolades within the whiskey industry.
Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery
- Bar Type: Bar & barrel room
- Famous For: Belle Meade Bourbon
- Spirit/Drink Recommendations: Mint Julep
- Location: Near Watkins Park
- The buzz: Located in the heart of downtown Nashville, Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery is known for its historical significance and high-quality spirits. It was originally established in the 1800s by the Green Brier brothers but was later revived by their descendants.
Ole Smoky
- Bar Type: Bar with outdoor beer garden and retail shop
- Famous For: Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine
- Spirit/Drink Recommendations: Mountain Mule
- Location: Rutledge Hill
- The Buzz: Rooted in the Appalachian moonshine-making tradition, Ole Smoky brings a taste of the Smoky Mountains to the heart of Music City. What makes them different is their focus on producing authentic, handcrafted moonshine using time-honored recipes. They offer a wide range of moonshine flavors, including classics like Original, White Lightnin’, and Apple Pie, as well as innovative variations such as Blue Flame and Hunch Punch.
Nashville Craft Distillery
- Bar Type: Bar
- Famous For: Naked Biscuit Sorghum Spirit
- Spirit/Drink Recommendations: Lemon Biscuit
- Location: Chestnut Hill
- The Buzz: Nashville Craft Distillery focuses on producing small-batch, locally sourced spirits. They offer a variety of spirits, including vodka, gin, and whiskey.
Big Machine Brewery & Distillery
- Bar Type: Bar with outdoor seating
- Famous For: Big Machine Platinum Filtered Vodka
- Spirit/Drink Recommendations: Tropical Spiked Cooler
- Location: Downtown; near Country Music Hall of Fame Museum
- The Buzz: What sets them apart is their close association with the music industry, as Big Machine Records is a renowned record label in Nashville. This unique connection allows them to create a dynamic environment where visitors can enjoy live music performances while savoring their handcrafted beers and spirits. **On your Pedal Tavern ride, you’ll pedal by Big Machine Brewery & Distillery.
A couple more options…
Nashville Barrel Co
- Bar Type: Bar & barrel room
- Famous For: Straight rye whiskey
- Spirit/Drink Recommendations: Whiskey flight
- Location: Spence Lane
- The Buzz: What makes them different is their expertise in handcrafted, custom-made barrels that are essential for the maturation process of spirits like whiskey. They take pride in sourcing high-quality American oak and employing traditional cooperage techniques to construct their barrels. Their attention to detail and commitment to craftsmanship result in barrels that enhance the flavors and characteristics of the spirits they hold.
Southern Collective Spirit Company
- Bar Type: Bar
- Famous For: Patron-picked varieties
- Spirit/Drink Recommendations: Whiskey flight
- Location: Rutledge Hill
- The Buzz: Southern Collective Spirit Co. is a family and friend-owned distillery that sources their whiskey from various distilleries across the US. They hand select barrels and then finish them or create a blend in their distillery in Nashville.
“Whiskey river, don’t run dry
You’re all I’ve got, take care of me”
“Whiskey River” by Willie Nelson
If you aren’t scream-singing your favorite whiskey-related country song by the end of surveying the best whiskey from the top 5 Downtown Nashville distilleries, maybe it’s time for another round!
NOTE:
Although Nashville Pedal Tavern loves all the fantastic distilleries in Nashville, whiskey, vodka, rum and any other spirits/alcoholic beverages that are over 7.9% ALC/VOL are not permitted during the tours. No wine or champagne in any form on board, nor are glass and kegs allowed.
Don’t stress the day-of; pre-order beer and seltzers for your Nashville Pedal Tavern ride through the bike barrel. Nashville Pedal Tavern will provide the cooler, ice and solo cups for your ride. Every ride has one large cooler.
