Short Mountain Distillery, Woodbury

The word "moonshine" might conjure up images of Prohibition-era speakeasies, but spirit making at Short Mountain Distillery is hardly a clandestine affair. Quite the opposite, in fact—owner Billy Kaufman keeps his operation a community effort. Kaufman operates the 300-acre Little Short Mountain Farm, and several years ago it inspired a thought: why not use his land to make moonshine? After all, a notorious moonshiner or two did use the farm's caves for just such a purpose in the past. And it would create jobs, support local farmers, and make for some tasty cocktails, all while keeping the revenue local. Kaufman's friends and neighbors agreed, and in 2010, they voted to allow the construction of Short Mountain Distillery.

Right next to the distillery planted firmly in scenic Cannon County, Stillhouse Restaurant offers a contemporary atmosphere with a menu featuring seasonal and local farm-to-table Southern dishes paired with moonshine and whiskey cocktails from the bar. Dining rooms with open views, framed by grand porches and decks, set the scene for an unforgettable dining experience. A banquet room can be reserved for larger parties and private events.

Today, Short Mountain Distillery continues to champion Tennessee traditions by using the farm's corn and mill to create authentic spirits in six varieties: Shiner's Select, classic Shine, Apple Pie, Prohibition Tea, Tennessee Bourbon Whiskey, and Rye Whiskey. Their production is still a community project, and if there's any doubt, all one needs to do is stop by the distillery, where the staff welcomes visitors with open arms, or at the very least open tours. They can even suggest how to make a mean moonshine cocktail. Even if someone can't make an onsite trip, they can still find Short Mountain's potables in stores across Tennessee and Georgia.