A Taste of Tennessee Exploring Nashville’s Secret Moonshine Culture and Where to Sample Legal Varieties

Post Published December 3, 2024

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Nashville's hidden history of moonshine stretches back to the 1800s, a time when distilling alcohol illegally was widespread, especially in the Great Smoky Mountains. The desire to avoid high taxes on legal liquor, amplified by Tennessee being the first state to enforce Prohibition, fueled the growth of clandestine distilleries. This environment of legal restrictions and a desire for affordable spirits led to the creation of sophisticated underground networks. The Smoky Mountains' rugged geography served as the ideal hiding place for moonshiners, offering natural camouflage for hidden stills and allowing them to move their product secretly.

The legacy of these bootleggers lives on today, though in a different form. While legal distilleries, like Ole Smoky, operate openly, they draw inspiration from these historical methods and recipes, bringing a taste of the past into the modern era. Nashville's unique connection to this craft, once shrouded in secrecy, now attracts visitors eager to delve into its historical culinary story. The rise in demand for local spirits adds another intriguing element to the city's diverse culinary landscape, making it a captivating destination for anyone interested in the origins of regional beverages.

Nashville's clandestine moonshine operations emerged in the early 1800s, fueled by readily available corn and other ingredients, along with a demand for spirits that evaded taxes and regulations. The era of Prohibition, from 1920 to 1933, supercharged this underground industry, with estimates placing nearly 80% of US alcohol consumption during that period as illicitly made. Nashville's surrounding areas played a crucial role in this nationwide black market.

Moonshiners often applied sophisticated techniques, such as copper stills, to produce cleaner spirits compared to using materials like iron. Their knowledge of water quality and how it impacted flavor was also key, with many sourcing from natural springs. The practice wasn't simply a criminal enterprise; it sparked a unique brand of community business, with local distillers often trading their produce for goods and services, shaping local economies.

Many treasured recipes remained tightly held secrets, passed down through families. This reveals a blend of chemistry and oral tradition where the balance of yeast and fermentation times could drastically influence the outcome. Law enforcement's response was often pragmatic, sometimes overlooking illicit operations when the economic benefits outweighed legal concerns. This illustrates a type of situational enforcement in practice.

Following Prohibition's end, several former moonshiners transitioned to legal distilleries, contributing to the current craft distillery scene in Nashville. Many of those techniques and recipes still echo the underground origins. Moonshine trails used particular plant life as natural guides for navigation. This shows a blend of understanding of both local geography and plant biology amongst those involved in the secret networks.

Beyond economic impact, Nashville's moonshine culture also contributed to the city's music scene. Gatherings fueled by homemade spirits provided inspiration to songwriters and musicians, adding a substantial layer to the city's cultural landscape. The legacy of this activity remains evident in many ways, from current distilleries to local traditions and music.

What else is in this post?

  1. A Taste of Tennessee Exploring Nashville's Secret Moonshine Culture and Where to Sample Legal Varieties - A Brief History of Nashville's Underground Moonshine Networks from 1800-1933
  2. A Taste of Tennessee Exploring Nashville's Secret Moonshine Culture and Where to Sample Legal Varieties - How Tennessee Mountain Spring Water Makes Nashville Moonshine Special
  3. A Taste of Tennessee Exploring Nashville's Secret Moonshine Culture and Where to Sample Legal Varieties - Nashville's 6th & Peabody District Where Legal Moonshine Tours Start at $25
  4. A Taste of Tennessee Exploring Nashville's Secret Moonshine Culture and Where to Sample Legal Varieties - Why Smith Creek Moonshine Became Nashville's Most Popular Local Brand
  5. A Taste of Tennessee Exploring Nashville's Secret Moonshine Culture and Where to Sample Legal Varieties - Mountain Heritage and Music The Connection Between Country Stars and Moonshine
  6. A Taste of Tennessee Exploring Nashville's Secret Moonshine Culture and Where to Sample Legal Varieties - Nashville's Monthly Moonshine Festival at Centennial Park Starting March 2025





The crisp, clean taste that makes Nashville moonshine stand out is, in no small part, due to the unique spring water found in the Tennessee mountains. This water source isn't just a functional ingredient, it's woven into the history of moonshine in the area. Tales abound of figures like Cooper Melton, supposedly supplying Al Capone's illicit establishments with moonshine during Prohibition, and it's believed that he, and many others, used the same pristine mountain springs. The landscape of moonshine production saw a significant shift in 2010 when the first federally licensed distillery opened in eastern Tennessee, signifying a move towards legally produced and enjoyed moonshine. Distilleries such as Ole Smoky have embraced this transition, incorporating traditional recipes and leveraging the region's renowned spring water to craft exceptional spirits. They embody the spirit of the past while pushing the boundaries of innovation in the modern moonshine scene. A visit to these distilleries provides a unique opportunity to witness the legacy of moonshining firsthand, from the historical narratives to the current-day practices that continue to shape the craft and build on Tennessee's enduring reputation as a top-tier moonshine producer. The resurgence of legal distilleries showcases how the craft has evolved, yet the heart of its tradition remains firmly rooted in the unique character of Tennessee mountain water.

The unique character of Nashville moonshine is intrinsically linked to the quality of Tennessee mountain spring water. The mineral composition of these waters, rich in elements like calcium and magnesium, plays a key role in shaping the flavor profile and texture of the distilled spirits. It's not just a matter of hydration; the specific mineral content impacts the mouthfeel, contributing to the smoothness often praised by distillers.

Historically, moonshiners, many of whom were also astute observers of their environment, instinctively grasped the value of clean, cold spring water in achieving superior results. The purity of the water, often originating from ancient glacial melt and naturally filtered through the mountain landscape, provided a cleaner base for the distillation process compared to more contaminated surface water sources. This focus on purity contributed to the clarity and quality of the final product.

Moreover, the pH balance of Tennessee spring water, often neutral to slightly alkaline, fosters optimal yeast activity during the fermentation stage. This controlled fermentation leads to more efficient sugar breakdown, resulting in a more desirable and balanced flavor in the final spirit. Keeping the temperature of the distillation process within a specific range is also crucial for preventing off-flavors. The use of cold spring water facilitates this temperature management, helping produce high-quality spirits.

Interestingly, the belief that each spring has a unique character that influences the quality of the resulting moonshine is still held by many distillers in the area. This perspective speaks to a deep understanding of both the chemistry of distillation and the specific geological context of the region. It's an intriguing blend of empirical knowledge passed down through generations with a keen awareness of local geology and chemistry.

This historical focus on spring water contrasts sharply with the approach of many commercial distilleries that often rely on treated municipal water supplies. Distillers in Nashville often reject municipal water due to the potential presence of chemicals like chlorine and fluoride, which can negatively affect the fermentation and distillation processes, potentially influencing the purity and taste of the final product. The reliance on consistent and pure spring water sources, therefore, has been crucial for developing and maintaining a reputation for high-quality moonshine.

The legacy of using Tennessee spring water in moonshine production continues in many current distilleries in Nashville. This connection to tradition ensures the authenticity of the product and the regional craft. It allows for the continued development of historically rooted recipes with a taste tied to the specific geological features and traditions of this part of the country. By honoring these historical techniques and sourcing high-quality local ingredients like spring water, these legal distilleries are not just crafting a spirit, but preserving a tangible piece of Tennessee's unique heritage for visitors and enthusiasts alike.







Nashville's 6th & Peabody District, located in the city's bustling SoBro area, provides a modern gateway to the region's storied moonshine heritage. This entertainment complex, a collaborative venture of Ole Smoky Distillery and YeeHaw Brewing, offers a comprehensive experience for those interested in legal moonshine. Tours and tastings are available daily, with prices starting as low as $25, allowing visitors to sample a diverse range of Ole Smoky's moonshine creations.

Beyond the distilling aspect, 6th & Peabody caters to a wide range of interests. A sprawling outdoor beer garden creates a relaxed setting. The venue often features live music on its two stages, showcasing both local and touring acts. For those looking for food, the district includes casual dining options such as White Duck Taco Shop and Daddy's Dogs. The expansive 30,000-square-foot space also includes large screens for viewing sporting events and other entertainment. If you're in Nashville and curious about the history of legal moonshine production, or just want a casual and affordable night out with good food, drinks and entertainment, 6th & Peabody might be worth a visit.

Located in Nashville's SoBro entertainment district, the 6th & Peabody entertainment complex represents a fascinating intersection of Nashville's historic moonshine culture and modern distilling practices. This 30,000-square-foot space, a joint venture between Ole Smoky Distillery and YeeHaw Brewing, opened in 2019 and provides a hub for both beer and moonshine enthusiasts.

Central to this location's appeal is its affordable legal moonshine tasting experiences. Starting at just $25, visitors can sample a range of the spirits created by Ole Smoky, providing a chance to delve into the flavors and styles produced by this significant local distillery. The venue itself is thoughtfully designed, offering both indoor and outdoor spaces to accommodate a wide variety of events. It houses several food vendors and features multiple stages that frequently host live music performances. The complex's large outdoor beer garden, plus its two jumbotrons for event viewing, make it adaptable to diverse crowd sizes and events.

Ole Smoky Distillery manages daily tours and tasting sessions, giving insight into their distillation process. The complex's hours are consistent and extend into the evenings, ensuring that those visiting Nashville's nightlife areas have a chance to sample a bit of the city's heritage. The 6th & Peabody complex also promotes a variety of events, including new product releases and special events for visitors, with a dedicated email list to keep guests informed about updates.

The establishment of the 6th & Peabody District signifies the evolution of moonshine production in Nashville. While once a clandestine enterprise tied to the rugged Tennessee landscape and steeped in local knowledge and geography, the tradition now intersects with regulations and formal businesses. This transition from a secret industry into a commercially viable and legal entity has brought with it new elements of sophistication and broader access for the interested public. The facility shows that Nashville's distilleries are keen to preserve the historical roots of their craft, providing a destination to experience not just the taste of moonshine but also its intriguing past in this region.







Smith Creek Moonshine has quickly become a favorite among Nashville's local spirits, largely due to its wide range of flavors and the interactive tasting experiences available at their Opry Mills location. They've managed to capture the imagination of drinkers with 13 distinct flavors, including more adventurous options like Chocolate Silk and Buttered Caramel. This willingness to experiment, while staying true to Tennessee's long history with distilling, resonates with a broader audience. The Opry Mills spot also offers a full shopping experience, beyond just moonshine. You can find everything from jams and sauces to shirts and other branded items, making it a convenient one-stop shop. It's this blend of flavorful options, educational tastings, and a welcoming environment that has helped Smith Creek Moonshine establish itself as a key part of Nashville's moonshine scene. The distillery has navigated the evolution of the craft skillfully, honoring its roots while bringing it to new fans.

Smith Creek Moonshine's ascent to popularity in Nashville is a fascinating blend of traditional practices and modern adaptations. Their use of the naturally filtered Tennessee mountain spring water is key. This water, rich in minerals, provides a cleaner foundation for the distillation process, contributing to the exceptional clarity and taste profile of their spirits. This connection to the natural environment has historical roots, with stories of moonshiners utilizing these same sources decades ago.

The brand's success also stems from its ability to bridge the gap between historical methods and modern consumer preferences. Post-Prohibition, a resurgence in Tennessee's craft distilling scene, allowed for both the economic and cultural revival of this traditional craft. Smith Creek, like other distilleries, benefits from this change by offering a range of moonshine flavors, incorporating both traditional recipes and newer twists using ingredients like fruits, spices and locally sourced components. This strategic blending of classic recipes and inventive concoctions has attracted a broader customer base.

Smith Creek's focus goes beyond just the production of the spirit. They are involved with Nashville's musical tradition, hosting live events that connect the brand to the community. This approach also promotes a specific brand image and builds customer loyalty. Their distillation processes are also engineered with a keen eye for detail, incorporating technologies that provide precise temperature control during production, leading to a smoother and consistently high-quality moonshine. They seem to understand the complex chemistry and engineering necessary to achieve consistently high-quality results, which is a challenge in the craft spirits world.

Beyond the craft, the company has adapted to the legal environment, highlighting how the alcohol regulations in Tennessee have transformed since Prohibition. This dynamic environment allowed a renaissance of local distilleries and related businesses. The brand has also effectively utilized social media channels and culinary partnerships. It is interesting to see the blend of historical practices with modern techniques and strategies and how the company integrated those elements into their business.

It appears that Smith Creek isn't just crafting a moonshine but building a cultural experience. This approach has, to a large extent, contributed to the success and enduring appeal of this brand in Nashville's dynamic spirits scene, demonstrating how tradition and innovation can work together to attract both tourists and locals.







The cultural landscape of Appalachia, particularly in areas like the Smoky Mountains, is deeply interwoven with the tradition of moonshine production and the region's musical heritage. Moonshining, for a long time a clandestine activity born out of economic necessity and legal restrictions, has become a powerful symbol of Appalachian identity and resourcefulness. The act of making moonshine wasn't just about creating an alcoholic beverage; it fostered a sense of community and played a significant role in the development of the region's economy, with goods and services often traded for homemade spirits.

The connections between these homemade gatherings and the rise of mountain music are undeniable. The lively social atmosphere created by moonshine provided fertile ground for songwriters and musicians to cultivate their talents, influencing the sounds that became synonymous with the region. This intersection of moonshine and music highlights the region's ability to adapt and create, despite often difficult circumstances.

Interestingly, the image of moonshine has evolved in recent times. While historically associated with bootlegging and a criminal element, it has gained renewed appreciation as a cultural artifact. Pop culture, through movies and other media, has helped reshape public perception, offering a glimpse into the resourcefulness and traditions that drove the practice. This renewed interest has led to the growth of legal distilleries, which build on the legacy of past generations while introducing the craft to a new audience. Today, the link between the mountains, moonshine, and music provides a compelling glimpse into the heart of a unique culture, revealing a resilient spirit that continues to influence the region's creative and economic landscape.

Mountain heritage and music in Tennessee have a fascinating connection, particularly concerning the production of moonshine. The Appalachian region's unique cultural identity is strongly tied to this history, with moonshine playing a significant role. Institutions like the Blue Ridge Institute & Museum and the University of Tennessee Press have meticulously studied the cultural significance of moonshine, uncovering details that shed light on how it influenced the region.

The popularity of moonshine has seen a resurgence in recent years, fueled by reality TV shows, music, and the wide reach of social media. These platforms have reshaped public perception of moonshine, presenting it not just as a historical practice but as part of the Appalachian narrative. Movies like "Thunder Road" romanticize the lives of moonshiners, further contributing to this cultural fascination with the craft.

Historically, moonshine production was often illegal, resulting in a reputation for criminal activity due to bootlegging. However, contemporary regulations and the rise of craft distilleries have altered this perception. Communities like Pigeon Forge showcase the historical legacy of moonshine, preserving the traditional knowledge and methods through attractions such as The Old Mill.

The Red River Gorge National Forest holds historical remnants of moonshine production, including Moonshine Caverns, offering a glimpse into the locations where this activity thrived. Additionally, the Center for Cultural Preservation is working to document the history of local moonshine by collecting oral histories and conducting educational programs. This initiative helps preserve a valuable and often-overlooked aspect of regional identity.

Documentaries like "The Spirits Still Move Them" provide detailed insights into the cultural and historical dimensions of Southern moonshine, highlighting the lasting impact of this craft on communities and individuals. These documentaries preserve the legacy of moonshine and contribute to the understanding of the craft's influence on the cultural identity of the region. It's apparent that moonshine in the Appalachian region is more than just a beverage; it's a significant cultural element that deeply reflects the area's resilience, resourcefulness, and the close-knit communities that grew alongside its history.







Nashville's Centennial Park will become the stage for a monthly Moonshine Festival beginning in March 2025. This new event seeks to shine a light on the city's unique history with moonshine, exploring both the legal distilleries operating today and the clandestine operations of the past. Centennial Park, with its expansive 132 acres and famous Parthenon replica, offers a fitting venue for the festival. It's a space already well-known for hosting events, so the festival shouldn't struggle to find a following. Along with moonshine tastings and related exhibits, visitors can expect a variety of local food options. This festival will be another addition to the city's already thriving event calendar and might become a chance to foster community interaction while exploring this quirky side of Nashville's history and culture. Whether it attracts many participants or only a select few, it's certainly a noteworthy event worth keeping an eye on for those interested in Tennessee's distilling history.

Beginning in March 2025, Centennial Park in Nashville will host a monthly Moonshine Festival, celebrating the city's fascinating—and often illicit—history with moonshine. This event aims to showcase Nashville's transition from clandestine distilleries to a thriving, legal industry. Centennial Park, a 132-acre space with the iconic Parthenon replica, is a common venue for festivals, concerts, and public gatherings. The Moonshine Festival, much like other events like the Music City Food & Wine Festival, will tap into Nashville's vibrant festival culture.

The festival hopes to feature a diverse range of legal moonshine producers and provide attendees with a more intimate understanding of the craft through expert-led tastings. Learning about the specific chemistry involved in distillation, including the critical roles of temperature, pressure, and fermentation, should give attendees a greater appreciation of the process. Each month, the festival will have a specific historical focus, such as the challenges moonshiners faced during Prohibition. The goal here would be to present the history with a series of immersive experiences that are more than just lectures.

Visitors will likely see a mix of culinary displays where local chefs show how to incorporate the flavors of moonshine into various dishes. This perspective could make the culinary side of the festival more appealing. Visitors can probably expect several workshops that teach about the distillation process itself. These could focus on the particular components, such as yeast and grains, that contribute to the final product. These could also explain how different chemical processes lead to a particular flavor profile.

A major component will be the discussion of Nashville's geographical impact on the quality of moonshine. It will be interesting to see whether they emphasize how different mineral contents in Tennessee spring water change the taste profile of the liquor. Further, the festival could explore the interplay of health and safety standards in distilling as a contrast to past illicit operations. That is important because the evolution of this once-secret industry needs to be shown. The links between moonshine culture and music will probably be a strong theme throughout the festival. The festival may include live performances to reinforce the idea that the illegal practices also contributed to the local musical culture. It will be interesting to see if there are also sessions that discuss the science of sound, possibly touching upon acoustics within the underground venues where such music was played.

Finally, economic discussions related to the industry, including its growth and impact on tourism, will likely be featured. To make the festival accessible to a broader audience, there might be options to participate online, perhaps even involving shipped tasting samples. While it remains to be seen if the actual festival lives up to its promises, the concept certainly holds intriguing possibilities. There are a lot of interesting and potentially educational aspects that could be integrated into this concept. The main question will be whether it's able to present it in a manner that's engaging for a wide audience.

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