If you were tasked with tacking on a word behind “Tennessee,” odds are, you’d choose “whiskey.” This beloved beverage comes with its own distilling process and a plethora of notable makers spanning across the state. Tennessee whiskey even has its own trail, complete with downloadable maps, trip planning tools, and even a passport system where securing enough stamps earns you a special prize.
The Tennessee Whiskey Trail spans the entire state, with notable stops including the recognizable Jack Daniel Distillery, the historic Nelson's Green Brier Distillery, and the trailblazing Nearest Green Distillery. While each maker on the trail promises an experience that’s both educational and delicious all year long, there’s a special promotion going on this winter that gives the holidays a little extra “spirit.”
Carols & Barrels is a season-long celebration across the Middle Tennessee portion of the Tennessee Whiskey Trail that will showcase themed pop-ups, specialty cocktails, and cozy decor at participating distilleries and tasting rooms. Each brand will debut their festive theme – from Elf to Candyland, Winter Wonderland, and many classic holiday films.
According to Charity Toombs, Executive Director of the Tennessee Whiskey Trail, “The holidays bring people together, often over a cup of cheer. With Carols & Barrels, we want to invite everyone to explore the world of Tennessee spirits in a festive, memorable way.”
With a special trail map released only for the season, you can track your progress through a mobile passport that is available to download at tnwhiskeytrail.com. Then, participants can make their way around Middle Tennessee’s participating distilleries to collect stamps that will also result in an exclusive prize (spoiler alert: it’s a stunning Tennessee Whiskey Trail-themed cocktail shaker set complete with an ice mold).
There are 12 spots serving holiday spirits through Carols & Barrels. For movie buffs, make sure you plan to stop at the batch of film-themed pop-ups. Up in Nashville, walk through a sea of swirly twirly gumdrops at Nashville Barrel Co.’s Elf experience, or cheers to a fellow filthy animal with a cocktail at Standard Proof Whiskey Co.’s Home Alone Christmas. If, like me, The Polar Express is your favorite film, climb aboard the express train-themed pop-up at Pullman Standard in partnership with George Dickel. We promise the you-know-what isn’t full at Big Machine Brewery & Distillery, which is hosting a Christmas Vacation-themed experience.
Others on the trail have created their own spirited themes. Venture out to Leiper’s Fork Distillery for “A Spirited Tennessee Christmas.” Go hog wild at Peg Leg Porker, who’s serving up a mean “Peg Nog,” or head out to Shelbyville’s Nearest Green Distillery, which has been transformed into a Winter Wonderland.
For a truly immersive experience, the Omni Nashville Hotel has partnered with Jack Daniel’s for a “Tinsel and Tennessee Whiskey” pop-up. Not only is the hotel offering discounted rates for trail participants, but they’re taking the fun one step further by offering transportation to themed stops along the trail in partnership with Mint Julep Experiences.
The latest distillery to join the trail is Stable Reserve, a new coffee shop and spirits brand hybrid located in the heart of Downtown Franklin.
“It’s an incredible honor to join the Tennessee Whiskey Trail,” said StableReserve co-owner Beth Goodwin. “The state of Tennessee has been a longtime leader in producing distilled spirits, and Stable Reserve is proud to be a part of that tradition.”
The team is celebrating their joining in style this season with a dedicated theme: “Making Spirits Bright.” The immersive experience will feature a slew of seasonal cocktails, including the “Cousin Eddie” made with Stable Reserve bourbon, custard, vanilla, and cinnamon.
The fun kicked off on November 11 and runs through January 5. Whether you’re a holiday traditionalist, a whiskey enthusiast, or someone just looking for a new way to celebrate, Carols & Barrels promises an unforgettable holiday experience with every sip. You can vote for your favorite seasonal cocktail on Instagram and keep tabs on the program on their website.
@TNWhiskeyTrail
“The holidays bring people together, often over a cup of cheer. With Carols & Barrels, we want to invite everyone to explore the world of Tennessee spirits in a festive, memorable way.”
“It’s an incredible honor to join the Tennessee Whiskey Trail,” said StableReserve co-owner Beth Goodwin. “The state of Tennessee has been a longtime leader in producing distilled spirits, and Stable Reserve is proud to be a part of that tradition.”