Alabama ~ Whiskey Tasting ~ Train Rides
Published: July 5, 2026
By: Adam Burns
If the idea of sipping a well-made whiskey while the world rolls by outside your window captures your imagination, you’re not alone.
Rail travel and whiskey share a certain timelessness—slow, social, and sensory—and across the United States you’ll find “tasting trains” that bring them together.
In Alabama, the concept is catching interest; currently the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum is the only location in the state hosting a whiskey/bourbon tasting train.
What A Whiskey Tasting Train Looks Like
A whiskey, or bourbon, tasting train is typically a special event excursion on a heritage railroad featuring curated tastings onboard—think flights of small-batch bourbon or rye served at your seat while a host shares stories and tasting notes, often paired with light bites.
Cars are historically restored coaches or diners, the pace is unhurried, and the focus is on the experience rather than the destination.
In Alabama, when these happen, they’re usually one-off or seasonal events rather than a fixed schedule. Many standard excursions are family-friendly and alcohol-free, so you’ll want to watch calendars for adult-only or “tasting” nights.
Where to ride the rails in Alabama
Two organizations anchor most public train rides in the state:
Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum (Calera)
About 35 miles south of Birmingham, the museum operates the Calera & Shelby Railroad, offering seasonal excursions through the woods, plus popular themed events.
They’ve hosted adult-focused evenings (beer or wine tastings have been featured in recent years), and they periodically add new concepts based on local demand and partnerships.
On select dates throughout 2025 the musuem hosts the "Bourbon and Brisket" event in conjunction with the Yella Hound Distillery.
According to the railroad the train excursion departs from and returns to the Ozan Winery & Vineyard. The train boards at the trackside Ozan Station and patrons can relax in a climate-controlled coach for a scenic train ride through Shelby County.
After you return, you’ll be guided to Yella Hound Distillery for a guided whiskey tasting, a small-group barrel room tour, a brisket cuisine box, and a keepsake Yella Hound spirits nosing glass.
North Alabama Railroad Museum (Huntsville/Chase)
This volunteer-run museum operates short excursions on historic equipment. Most rides are family-oriented (Mother’s Day, Fall Color, Santa trains). Alcohol is typically not part of regular operations, though private charters can sometimes be tailored for special groups in compliance with rules. If you’re organizing a group whiskey tasting, reach out to discuss feasibility and permitting.
You’ll find other rail attractions in the state—museums, depots, and miniature railways—but the two above are your primary options for full-size scenic excursions.
Alabama Whiskey
The Alabama whiskey you’ll want to taste
Part of the fun is showcasing local spirits. Alabama’s distilling scene isn’t as large as Kentucky’s, but it has character:
John Emerald Distilling (Opelika): Known for single malt and whiskey expressions with a Southern accent. Their tasting room and tours are popular with Auburn/Opelika visitors.
Dread River Distilling (Birmingham): A sleek urban distillery producing bourbon, rye, and other spirits, with a cocktail bar and kitchen that make it easy to turn a tasting into an evening out.
Irons One (Huntsville): Small-batch whiskey with a loyal local following, often spotlighting unique aging choices.
Clyde May’s (Conecuh Ridge): The brand has deep Alabama roots and an “Alabama-style” whiskey heritage. Production has long involved partner facilities outside the state; a new distillery in Troy has been in development. Check its current status if a visit is part of your plan.
Other Whiskey Trains Across The South
If you’re set on a true “whiskey train” with recurring schedules, consider short trips across state lines:
Kentucky: My Old Kentucky Dinner Train in Bardstown frequently hosts bourbon-themed excursions featuring tastings and pairings in vintage dining cars.
North Carolina: The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad has long offered tasting experiences, including moonshine-focused events in partnership with regional producers.
Georgia/Tennessee: Several heritage lines run special tasting trains throughout the year. While many focus on wine or beer, spirits-themed events pop up seasonally. Check calendars and be flexible.
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