Consider These Ten Tips before Taking Your Next Visit to a Distillery
Who doesn’t enjoy a nice glass of whiskey? Whether you’re a bourbon lover or a scotch drinker, there’s nothing quite like visiting a distillery and learning about the process that goes into making your favorite spirit.
According to a study, more than 1,500 craft distilleries are currently operating in the United States. This number has more than doubled in the past five years and shows no signs of slowing down. With the popularity of craft spirits on the rise, chances are you’ll be visiting a distillery sooner rather than later.
While many distilleries offer tours and tastings, not all are created equal.
To make the most of your experience, you should keep a few things in mind. Here are a few tips to consider before taking your next distillery tour.
- Do your research
Before setting out on your distillery tour, it’s important to do your research. Not all distilleries are open to the public, and of those that are, not all offer tours. Once you’ve found a list of potential distilleries to visit, give them a call or check their website to see if their tours are available.
In Tennessee, there are dozens of distilleries to choose from. For instance, the Pigeon Forge distillery offers tours of its facility and tastings of its products. The best part about visiting this distillery is that it’s just a short drive from Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
- Make a reservation
If tours are available, it’s important to make a reservation in advance. Many distilleries only offer tours at certain times of the day or week, and spots fill up quickly. By making a reservation, you can ensure that you’ll be able to take the tour at a convenient time.
Also, remember that some distilleries require a minimum number of people for a tour. Call ahead and make arrangements if you’re visiting with a large group.
- Dress appropriately
Keep in mind that most distilleries are working factories. That means they can be hot, dusty, and noisy. To make the most of your tour, dress appropriately. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty. Most importantly, drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol before the tour.
It is because you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking and want to be well-hydrated. You may also be sampling some of the distillery’s products, so it’s important to have a clear head.
- Ask questions
One of the best parts about taking a distillery tour is that you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the process of making whiskey or whatever your spirit of choice may be. As you tour the facility, take the time to ask questions.
Your tour guide will likely be more than happy to answer any questions you have and give you some insight into the distilling process.
- Take your time
Next, don’t rush through your tour. Yes, it’s probably hot and dusty, but there’s a lot to see and learn. Take your time and soak it all in. Chances are, you’ll be glad you did. The fact is, distillery tours can be a lot of fun. And, if you keep these things in mind, they can also be quite informative.
Also, you shouldn’t feel like you need to buy something just because you took the tour. Many distilleries offer souvenirs, but there’s no pressure to purchase anything.
- Buy a bottle (or two)
If possible, don’t forget to buy a bottle (or two) of the distillery’s products before leaving. It is best to support the distillery and ensure you have a souvenir from your visit. You must remember, however, that not all distilleries sell their products on site.
So, if you’re interested in buying a bottle of whiskey (bourbon, scotch, etc.), ask about it before the tour.
- Leave the kids at home
Most distilleries require that visitors be at least 21 years of age. If you’re traveling with young children, they’ll have to sit this one out.
It’s best to leave the kids at home, as they can be noisy and disruptive and won’t enjoy the tour. Hence, it’s just not worth it to bring them along.
- Don’t drink and drive
It should go without saying, but it’s important to remember that distillery tours are not an excuse to drink and drive. If you’re planning on doing some tasting, be sure to have a designated driver. There’s nothing worse than ruining a good time by getting pulled over for DUI. And once you’re a convict of DUI, it’s not easy to get your life back on track.
Each state has its laws regarding distilleries. For instance, in Tennessee, you can only buy up to two liquor bottles per person per day. So, if you’re planning on buying more, you’ll need to make arrangements.
- Know your limits
When it comes to tasting, it’s important to know your limits. The last thing you want to do is overdo it and feel sick. Start with small samples and work your way up. And, if you’re not a fan of a particular spirit, don’t hesitate to spit it out. There’s no need to force yourself to drink something you don’t like.
There’s another reason to be mindful of your alcohol consumption, and that’s the fact that distillery tours can be long. If you drink too much, you may feel sleepy or uncomfortable. Remember, it’s best to pace yourself.
- Have fun
You’re taking a distillery tour in the first place to have some fun. So, relax and enjoy yourself. You’ll have a great time and learn something along the way.
The most important thing to remember is that distillery tours are fun. So, go in with an open mind and enjoy the experience. Who knows, you may even find a new favorite spirit.
Bottom Line:
A distillery tour can be a great way to learn about making whiskey, bourbon, or scotch. However, before taking your next distillery tour, remember to dress appropriately and drink plenty of water. Next, take your time and ask questions. And, don’t forget to buy a bottle of the distillery’s products before leaving. Most importantly, remember to have fun. Cheers!
