Romance and whiskey share a certain vernacular. Both can be rich and smooth. Both are improved by a mix of complicated flavors. Both contain several sweet, but subtle, notes. And on occasion (if we’re totally honest) both can burn or sting.

In fact, wine’s reputation as the “spirit of romance” has endured for far too long. When it comes to deepening connection, renewing passion, and having a good ol’ time, whiskey is the obvious choice.

Wine was fine for Romans and Ben Franklin liked his beer, but timeless love requires the timeless spirits celebrated and created along the Tennessee Whiskey Trail.

Get Away

Romantic getaways require just that—getting away. Free from our usual daily distractions, we can pay greater attention to each other and to making memories together. Venture to Short Mountain Distillery for whiskey, food, and fun (all of which set the scene for a romantic escape from the everyday). Located on a stunning 400-acre working farm, Short Mountain specializes in organic Tennessee whiskey, bourbon, moonshine, and more. Try a cocktail and some farm-to-table delicacies at the adjoining restaurant or take the classic distillery tour. 

Looking to ascend further into a dreamy getaway? Few places capture the mystery and lushness of love quite like the iconic Smoky Mountains. A weekend cabin getaway in the Smokies wouldn’t be complete without visits to the Old Forge Distillery, Ole Smoky Moonshine, Thunder Road, or Doc Collier either—just a few of the countless mountaintop masters creating the true “spirit of romance.”

Redefine “Date Night”

Call it “ambience” or “character” or (as the wine crowd might) “that certain je ne sais quoi”—whatever quality the right date spot has, you know it when you feel it. 

Leiper’s Fork Distillery has “that certain something” in spades. This small-batch distillery includes a heaping helping of love in its limestone filtered spirits crafted with local ingredients. That same degree of passion also extends to the surrounding rural scenery, the rustic structures, and the overall unique vibe of the venue. If you and your special someone prefer old timey trucks, repurposed barns, and a concert of crickets in the evening air, Leiper’s Fork is the “special place” you’ve been searching for. 

Take in the Sights

A romantic getaway wouldn’t be complete without a couple social media posts to turn all your friends green with envy. Thankfully, Tennessee is just about the most photogenic state this side of the Grand Canyon.

The Old Dominick Distillery in Memphis is still going strong nearly 150 years after its inception. Now located mere steps away from the original building, the modernized Old Dominick distillery and bar attracts the classiest crowds with its exquisite furnishings and casual atmosphere. Wingback chairs and minimalist stools combine with industrial flare for a sensual evening of rich romance. 

Meanwhile, over in Bristol near the Virginia line, Lost State craft distillery emphasizes the “picture” in “picturesque.” Voted #1 in USA Today’s Best New Craft Distilleries poll, Lost State produces whiskey, rum, vodka, and gin as beautiful to taste as the natural surroundings are to behold. Like the pink afternoon skies and deep rolling lawns, the distillery tasting room and gift shop are open year-round. In Tennessee, finding a whiskey you’ll love is just about as easy as finding the perfect opportunity for that lasting couple’s photo.

Spirit of Romance

Every couple has a secret language or romantic ritual. In Tennessee, whiskey is that language and a getaway to mountains and countryside complete with charming distilleries is that romantic ritual. 

Cheese and wine are fine, and who doesn’t enjoy a candlelit Italian dinner now and then? But for pure feeling? Pure fun? Pure love? You’ll find it all in pure Tennessee along the iconic Tennessee Whiskey Trail.