What kind of alcohol is in moonshine?

whiskey
Moonshine purists define the spirit as a homemade, unaged whiskey, marked by its clear color, corn base and high alcohol content—sometimes peaking as high as 190 proof. Traditionally, it was produced in a homemade still and bottled in a mason jar.

Is moonshine a whiskey or vodka?

Commercial liquor labeled as moonshine is typically one of two things: neutral grain spirits or unaged whiskey. White whiskey, in other words, is different from vodka, but some of what gets sold as “moonshine” is legally vodka.

Is moonshine the same as alcohol?

Moonshine is high-proof liquor that was and continues to be produced illicitly, without government authorization. The name was derived from a tradition of creating the alcohol during the nighttime, thereby avoiding detection. Distilling such spirits outside a registered distillery remains illegal in most countries.

Is moonshine made with whiskey?

Absolutely nothing. Both whiskey and moonshine have the same production process – give or take a few variables. “Moonshine” came to be distinguished from whiskey for its illegal nature rather than it being a different type of alcohol – moonshine is just whiskey that hasn’t been taxed.

Is antifreeze in moonshine?

It’s also important to note that most radiators contain antifreeze residue that can end up in the distilled alcohol too. Antifreeze residue contains ethylene glycol, a sweet-tasting poison that’s nearly indistinguishable in moonshine [source: Dillow].

How bad is moonshine for you?

Consuming Methanol In Moonshine However, after it is metabolized, the methanol can have an extremely harmful effect in someone’s body. 10 milliliters (ml) of methanol is all it takes to permanently damage the optic nerve and cause partial, if not complete, blindness. 30 ml of methanol is lethal.

Is vodka the same as moonshine?

Physically speaking, there is no real difference between vodka and moonshine. Both are unaged neutral spirits, usually cut with water to increase volume and produce a more drinkable product.

What’s the best way to drink moonshine?

How should you drink moonshine? “We always drink it straight from the jar, but encourage you to get creative by mixin’ your own recipe. A Southern classic is our Front Porch Peach Tea, which is 2 parts Ole Smoky Peach Moonshine, 1 part sweet tea and 1 part Lemonade, with peach and mint for garnish.”

Why does moonshine make you blind?

If you’re drinking moonshine, yes. Today the most common cause of blindness from drinking is methanol. Methanol, otherwise known as methyl alcohol or wood alcohol, can damage the optic nerve and even kill you in high concentrations.

How do you make homemade moonshine?

Distilling the Sour Mash Strain the sour mash through a cheesecloth. Place the cloth over the bucket, then tip the bucket over a clean bucket or pot. Pour the strained mash liquid into the pressure cooker. Clamp down the lid and place it on a stovetop burner. Position the copper tubing to create a condenser.

Is moonshine the same as vodka?

Moonshine is any alcohol that is made illegally. It is usually make in small batches. There have been a growing number of distilleries that advertise their product as “moonshine.” This however is nothing short of lying. If you can buy it in the store then it’s not moonshine. It’s basically just really bad Vodka.

What is moonshine and why is it illegal?

Moonshine is any illegally made distilled alcohol. Classically it is corn liquor distilled from fermented corn and / or sugar. Distilling alcohol without state and federal permits is illegal in every single state in the US. Making moonshine is illegal because the government wishes to collect tax revenue.

Is it illegal to produce homemade moonshine?

So, for those of you wondering about the legality of moonshine and who want instant gratification, lets cut to the chase. No, it is not illegal to make moonshine, however, you do need the appropriate permits to do so. There are basically two sets of laws that regulate home distilling in any given area: federal law and state/local laws.