Smokin Banjo Wine Company

Smokin Banjo Wine Company calls itself the "rebel of the rollin' hills," and its Gatlinburg tasting room lives up to the name. The focus is bubbly and sparkling wines, plus a lineup of bold hard ciders. Some are sweet, some are tart, and at least one has a little heat.

It sits right on the Parkway in the middle of downtown Gatlinburg, so it's easy to fit into an afternoon of shopping, sightseeing, and strolling the strip. Some people search for it as "Smoking Banjo," but it's the same fun stop.

Sparkling wines with a playful twist

Most Gatlinburg wineries pour the usual wine styles. Smokin Banjo built its menu around bubbles. Its sparkling wines range from crisp and dry to fruity and sweet, so there's a good pour whether you're new to wine or already know what you like.

The tasting room is relaxed and music-themed, and the staff are happy to help you find a favorite. Order a flight to sample a few, then take home a bottle of the ones you liked most.

Hard ciders that pack a kick

The cider menu is where Smokin Banjo gets really creative. Expect flavors that go well beyond a plain apple cider.

Banjo Blues

A crisp cider with a hint of blueberry sweetness. It's light and refreshing, and a great pick on a warm Gatlinburg afternoon.

Sweet Heat

A fruity apple cider with a touch of chili pepper. It has just enough kick without covering up the fruit.

Granny Smith

Tart, tangy, and bright, with the classic green-apple taste coming through in every sip.

The menu changes over time, so ask what's pouring during your visit.

A stop on the Gatlinburg Wine Trail

Smokin Banjo is part of the Gatlinburg Wine Trail, a group of wineries and cideries along the Parkway. Several stops are a short walk apart, which makes it easy to visit a few tasting rooms in one afternoon and compare styles. Our guide to Gatlinburg wineries covers the other stops and how to plan your route.

Plan your visit

Smokin Banjo is on the main Parkway near Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, right in the middle of downtown Gatlinburg.

Check hours before you go — hours change by season, so call ahead or check the winery's site before you head over.

Skip the parking hunt — downtown lots fill up fast on busy weekends. The Gatlinburg Trolley is an easy way to get to the strip without circling for a spot.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Smokin Banjo in Gatlinburg?

It's at 631 Parkway, on the main strip in downtown Gatlinburg near Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies.

What does Smokin Banjo serve?

Bubbly and sparkling wines plus hard ciders, including flavors like Banjo Blues, Sweet Heat, and Granny Smith.

Is it part of the Gatlinburg Wine Trail?

Yes. It's one of the trail's stops, and several of the others are a short walk away on the Parkway.

Can I buy bottles to take home?

Yes. Sample a flight in the tasting room, then pick up bottles of your favorites to bring back to your cabin.