Last Updated on March 11, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Most of us have only heard tales about moonshine as a once-illegal beverage, with tales of shady roadside transactions and secret stills in barns.
However, not many people know that moonshine is literally just an untaxed whiskey. Have you ever wondered how different are they?
Our team spent 48 hours researching to find out the differences of moonshine vs whiskey.
Whiskey or Moonshine: How Do They Differ?
The term moonshine is any alcohol that is produced illegally. Sometimes it is called white lightning or white whiskey.
The origins of moonshine may be traced back to the American Revolution when the government imposed heavy taxes on alcohol manufacturing.
On the other hand, whiskeys are produced legally. Also, this alcohol can be made anywhere across the world. Whiskeys require a maturing process, unlike moonshine that does not. And whiskey can be classified into two: grain whiskey and malt whiskey.
A Closer Look At Their Differences
Tax & Legality
The first difference between the two spirits is their tax and legality. The word moonshine is an alcoholic liquor produced illegally to evade the legal requirement for whiskey aging.
Moonshine’s origins may be traced back to the American Revolution when the government levied heavy taxes on the manufacture of alcohol.
On the other hand, producers can manufacture whiskeys everywhere. Around 25 countries or nations are producing whiskey. Scotland is the biggest producer globally, where scotch whiskey is made.
Also Read: What Does the “XXX” Label Mean on a Moonshine Jug?
Base Product
Another difference is their base product. Whiskey is a distilled alcoholic beverage prepared from any fermented grain mash. Whiskey comes from barley, malted barley, rye, or wheat, depending on the geographical region or kind of whiskey being made [1].
Moonshine may be produced from grain or fruit, although corn is the most common. Because most individuals who make their drinks are farmers or reside in rural regions, they tend to use whatever crop they have for the distillation process of white whiskey.
Check out our favorite Ole Smoky Moonshine flavors here.
Production Method
There are several variants of the whiskey production process. Still, regardless of where it originates, it involves fermentation of fruits or grains, distillation, blending with some neutral spirits, and aging or storage in a barrel or cask.
The simplest method required maize meal, sugar, yeast, and water to manufacture moonshine. However, cornmeal can substitute other grains such as barley, rye, or any other grain mash.
Aging Process
Like brandy, whiskey is also a distilled spirit that requires aging. When aged in wooden casks, other flavorings are added to produce different varieties. On the other hand, there’s no aging requirement to be called moonshine. Some makers store their moonshines in jars for 3-4 months.
Also Read: How Much is a Dram of Whiskey?
Color
After being distilled, whiskey is aged in an oak barrel to get the golden brown and amber hues like rum. Whiskey must be aged in wooden casks before being called whiskey.
Depending on the restrictions, other flavorings are added to the alcohol. On the other hand, moonshine is often translucent and clear in appearance.
Read: Is There Such A Thing As Clear Whiskey?
Tasting Notes
So, what does moonshine taste like? Moonshine is created from fermented corn mash and distilled into alcohol, resulting in a strong taste. But, what percent of alcohol is in moonshine? Moonshines are usually high-proof alcohol and alcoholic content. Moonshine has 40-60% ABV alcohol content but can vary from 60-80% ABV.
Whiskey tastes sweet, fruity, peppery, oaky, or smoky. Almost like beer, single malt whiskey is a whiskey that originates from a single distillery and is then brewed with only one variety of malted grain in the mash with an oaky taste. So, what’s good to mix with whiskey?
Price
Another difference is their price. Moonshine has become outdated due to large distilleries offering alcohol at cheap costs. A bottle of moonshine normally costs around $22 to $30. Several small distilleries in the US still make white whiskey safer.
Meanwhile, a bottle of whiskey usually costs about $20 to $500, while some cost less than $20 and others that cost more than $500.
Moonshine vs Vodka
Moonshine and vodka are distinct spirits with different characteristics, production methods, and cultural associations. Moonshine typically refers to illicitly produced or homemade distilled spirits, historically associated with clandestine operations to evade authorities, often produced in small quantities. It is known for its raw and unrefined nature, with flavors varying widely depending on the ingredients and distillation process. In contrast, vodka is a neutral spirit typically made from grains or potatoes, characterized by a clean and odorless taste. Vodka undergoes extensive filtration, resulting in a smooth and versatile spirit with a high level of purity. While moonshine carries a certain mystique and historical intrigue, vodka is a globally popular and commercially produced spirit enjoyed in various cocktails and mixed drinks. Both have unique qualities, making them suitable for different preferences and occasions.
Why is Moonshine Illegal
Moonshine is often associated with illegality due to its historical roots in clandestine production, particularly during periods of alcohol prohibition. The illegal status of moonshine arises from the production and distribution of untaxed and unregulated distilled spirits. In many jurisdictions, producing alcohol without the necessary permits and adhering to safety and quality regulations is a violation of the law. Moonshine gained notoriety for being produced “by the light of the moon,” evading law enforcement, and contributing to a culture of illicit alcohol trade. While the term “moonshine” originally referred to illegal spirits, legal and regulated moonshine products are available in certain regions, produced within the confines of the law.
Is Moonshine Stronger than Whiskey:
Moonshine’s strength compared to whiskey can vary widely depending on the specific recipe, distillation process, and whether it has been aged. Moonshine is often associated with higher alcohol content, sometimes exceeding 100 proof. However, it’s crucial to note that not all moonshine is stronger than whiskey, as the alcohol content depends on the individual producer and production methods. Whiskey, on the other hand, follows regulated production standards, with alcohol content typically ranging from 40% to 60% alcohol by volume (80 to 120 proof). While both moonshine and whiskey can be potent, the perception of strength is relative and influenced by individual taste preferences and the specific product.
Moonshine vs Bourbon:
Moonshine and bourbon are distinct spirits with unique characteristics and production methods. Moonshine is often associated with homemade, unaged, and unregulated distilled spirits, known for its raw and varied flavors. It is historically linked to clandestine production during times of alcohol prohibition. Bourbon, on the other hand, is a legally recognized and regulated whiskey, produced primarily in the United States. It undergoes specific production requirements, including being distilled from at least 51% corn and aged in new charred oak barrels. Bourbon is known for its smooth, sweet, and complex flavor profile, which develops during the aging process. While moonshine and bourbon share some historical connections to homemade spirits, bourbon adheres to strict legal standards, offering a more refined and standardized product compared to the diverse and often unpredictable nature of moonshine.
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FAQs
Is moonshine just unaged whiskey?
Yes, moonshine is an unaged whiskey based on some moonshiners. Moonshiners define moonshine or white whiskey as homemade and unaged whiskey [2].
Is moonshine considered whiskey?
Yes, moonshine can be considered as whiskey. Rum and whiskey are the most common forms of moonshine. The distillation and ingredients used are strong indicators that this is a whiskey, and many experts agreed.
Is whiskey and moonshine the same thing?
No, whiskey and moonshine are not the same thing. Whiskey is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from fermented grain mash and aged in wooden barrels, while moonshine typically refers to illegally produced or homemade spirits, often unaged and lacking the regulatory standards adhered to by commercial whiskey producers.
Is moonshine just unaged whiskey?
Moonshine is often associated with unaged or minimally aged spirits, but the term primarily refers to illicitly produced and untaxed distilled alcohol. While unaged whiskey may share some similarities with moonshine, not all moonshine is unaged, and the production methods can vary widely.
Does moonshine taste like whiskey?
Moonshine may share some flavor characteristics with whiskey, especially if it is made from a similar mash bill. However, due to its often homemade and unregulated production, moonshine’s taste can vary significantly, ranging from harsh and raw to smoother and more refined, depending on the distillation process.
Why is whiskey called moonshine?
The term “moonshine” historically referred to illegally produced or homemade distilled spirits, often produced under the cover of darkness (“by the light of the moon”) to evade authorities. While originally associated with illicit activities, today, legal and regulated moonshine products are available, and the term is used more broadly.
Which is stronger, whiskey or moonshine?
Moonshine and whiskey can vary widely in terms of alcohol content. The strength depends on factors such as the specific recipe, distillation process, and whether the spirit has been aged. In general, moonshine may be higher in alcohol content, but it varies depending on the producer and production methods.
Is vodka just moonshine?
Vodka and moonshine are distinct spirits. Vodka is typically a neutral spirit distilled from grains or potatoes, while moonshine refers to illegally produced or homemade distilled alcohol. Vodka is produced legally, adhering to regulatory standards, and undergoes filtration to achieve a clean and neutral flavor profile.
Why is moonshine whiskey illegal?
Moonshine itself is not inherently illegal; rather, it’s the illicit production and distribution of spirits without proper licensing and adherence to regulations that make it illegal. Legal and regulated moonshine products are available, but producing untaxed and unregulated alcohol is against the law.
Why is moonshine so strong?
Moonshine’s strength can vary, but it is often associated with higher alcohol content. The perception of moonshine as strong is influenced by its historical association with homemade, unregulated production methods that may result in higher proof spirits. Legal moonshine products produced within regulatory frameworks can also be strong, but they adhere to safety and quality standards.
Is whiskey and moonshine the same thing?
No, whiskey and moonshine are not the same. Whiskey is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from fermented grain mash and aged in wooden barrels, while moonshine refers to illegally produced or homemade distilled spirits, often unaged and lacking regulation.
Is moonshine just unaged whiskey?
Moonshine is often unaged, but the key distinction lies in the legality and regulation. Moonshine is typically associated with homemade or illicitly produced spirits, whereas whiskey can be both commercially produced and aged.
Does moonshine taste like whiskey?
Moonshine and whiskey can have similar flavor profiles since both are made from fermented grain mash. However, the taste can vary widely depending on the ingredients, distillation process, and aging conditions.
Why is whiskey called moonshine?
The term “moonshine” originated during the Prohibition era in the United States when illegal distillers operated at night to avoid detection. The process of producing illicit alcohol became known as “moonshining,” and the term stuck, although legally produced and regulated spirits are not referred to as moonshine.
Which is stronger, whiskey, or moonshine?
The strength of whiskey and moonshine can vary, but moonshine is often associated with higher alcohol content because it may not undergo the same regulations and dilution as commercially produced whiskey. However, the actual strength depends on the specific production methods.
Is vodka just moonshine?
No, vodka and moonshine are different. Vodka is a neutral spirit typically distilled to a high proof and filtered to remove impurities, while moonshine refers to illicitly produced spirits, often with a more rustic and unrefined character.
Why is moonshine whiskey illegal?
Moonshine, by definition, often refers to illicitly produced spirits made without proper licensing, regulation, and taxation. The illegal production and distribution of alcohol can pose health risks and evade government controls, leading to its prohibition.
Why is moonshine so strong?
Moonshine is often perceived as strong because it may be produced without the regulations that commercially produced spirits adhere to. The strength can vary, but some moonshines have higher alcohol content due to less regulated production processes.
Final Thoughts: Moonshine vs Whiskey
There’s a huge difference between whiskey and moonshine. Moonshine is an illegally produced alcohol drink that goes by various names worldwide. Usually, it is made from fermented corn mash.
Unlike whiskey, moonshine does not need to be aged. Despite the differences, whiskey won this battle. Because it hasn’t matured, the flavor profile of moonshine will be less complex and rougher than whiskey that matured for years.
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