Moonshine, a traditional American spirit with a rich and storied history, has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years. With its roots deeply embedded in the Appalachian region, moonshine has evolved from its illicit past to become a beloved craft spirit. Today, many moonshine brands can be found across the United States, each offering its unique flavor profile and distilling techniques. In this article, we will explore some of the best moonshine brands in the U.S., showcasing the craftsmanship, innovation, and dedication that go into creating these exceptional spirits.
Whether you’re a seasoned moonshine enthusiast or a curious newcomer, there is something for everyone to enjoy regarding this forbidden spirit. The options are endless, from traditional corn-based moonshine to more unconventional flavors like apple pie and peach cobbler. While moonshine is typically a term used for homemade alcohol sold illegally, some brands have latched onto that idea and made their own legal moonshine or similar whiskey.
These moonshine brands pay homage to the history and culture of the Appalachian region and push the boundaries of what moonshine can be. With their smooth and strong flavors, these moonshine brands have become popular choices for mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts looking to create unique and flavorful drinks. Additionally, the craft and attention to detail put into each bottle of moonshine reflect the passion and dedication of the distillers. So whether you’re sipping it neat or using it as a base for creative cocktails, these innovative moonshine brands are sure to provide a memorable and enjoyable drinking experience.
That being said, I think it’s time we dive into our ranking for today, don’t you? As always, we at StudyFinds have researched across multiple expert sources to bring you today’s list of the top seven best legal moonshine that you can buy and try. Some of the options on our list are called whiskey, but are considered moonshine by many experts. Don’t agree with our list or feel we missed out on a favorite? We would love to hear from you in the comments below.Â
The List: Best Moonshine Most Recommended by Experts
1. Buffalo Trace White Dog Mash #1
Buffalo Trace White Dog Mash #1 is a unique and intriguing spirit that carries with it a rich history and a touch of rebellion. Known as moonshine, this unaged whiskey is a throwback to the early days of American distilling. With its raw and unfiltered nature, Buffalo Trace White Dog Mash #1 offers a glimpse into the traditional methods and flavors that were once synonymous with moonshine production. Southern Living says this 125 proof bottle delivers the authentic moonshine burn that many look for in these spirits.Â
According to Spirit Hunters, you can expect a clear, un-aged bottle with hints of sweet corn for flavor. It is an early ancestor of what we know today as Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.Â
When describing the flavor palette of this moonshine, Huff Post tasters described it as “hot as hell” with a punch of complex flavor and sweetness. They describe it as a “true adventure for your taste buds.”
2. Troy & Sons Platinum
Troy & Sons Platinum is a unique and premium 80 proof moonshine that has gained popularity among spirit enthusiasts. Crafted from heirloom corn in the mountains of North Carolina at Asheville Distilling Company, this moonshine offers a smooth and refined taste that sets it apart from traditional moonshin
According to Southern Living, this moonshine is made with pure Appalachian spring water. This makes for a smooth sipper with just a touch of vanilla.
Swirled mentions that the founder of the distilling company, Troy Ball, only uses corn from Crooked Creek Mills in this blend. The company is family-owned and operated and, because it is made of corn, that makes it very unique.
3. George Dickel Corn Whiskey
George Dickel Corn Whiskey, also known as moonshine, is a classic American spirit that has a rich history and a distinctive flavor profile. Crafted in the hills of Tullahoma, Tennessee, this traditional moonshine is made using a time-honored recipe and a meticulous distillation process. “Best served in a mixed drink or over ice, George Dickel White Corn Whiskey is known for its smooth and mellow moonshine flavor,” explains Swirled.
Spirit Hunters mentions that their signature charcoal-filtered mellowing process creates one of the finest un-aged whiskeys you can buy in this bottle. Thrillist recommends it mixed with lemonade in the summertime, or simply over ice.
4. Stillhouse Clear Corn Whiskey
Among the wide array of moonshine variations, Stillhouse Clear Corn Whiskey stands out as a true embodiment of the craft. “Stillhouse Clear Corn Whiskey is crafted in distilleries in Virginia and Kentucky in authentic copper whiskey stills,” describes Wide Open Country.Â
According to Spirit Hunters, it is made from 100 percent estate-grown corn. On social media, the company emphasizes how well their blends pair with outdoor exploration. The vibes are that this makes the perfect bonfire drink to pass around on a camping trip.Â
5. Bill Elliott Dawsonville Moonshine
Bill Elliott Dawsonville Moonshine is a renowned brand in the world of alcohol. Crafted using traditional methods passed down through generations, Bill Elliott Moonshine has become synonymous with authenticity and a touch of rebellion. This moonshine is brewed in partnership with NASCAR champion Bill Elliott and features delicious flavors like white lightning, apple pie, and Georgia corn.Â
Grab a bottle of our Dawsonville Moonshine today! #DawsonvilleMoonshine #Dawsonville #BillElliott #Moonshine #NASCAR pic.twitter.com/aWn0JBBbtW
— DawsonvilleMoonshine (@Moonshiners_) January 28, 2015
Wide Open Country further explains that the moonshine is distilled at the Dawsonville Distillery in Dawsonville, Georgia. Using traditional recipes and techniques passed down through the years, they pride themselves on creating a smooth and flavorful spirit.
Although they keep a low profile, Spirit Hunters appreciates the company’s attention to quality over quantity. From the flavor to the use of only locally-grown ingredients, this is a high-quality spirit through and through.
6. Junior Johnson’s Midnight Moon
Junior Johnson’s Midnight Moon is a brand of moonshine that has gained quite a reputation in recent years. Crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail, Midnight Moon is not just any ordinary moonshine – it is a smooth and flavorful spirit that embodies the spirit of rebellion and adventure. This is another moonshine made through a partnership with a NASCAR star, but this time it’s Junior Johnson. It is made with Piedmont Distillers in Madison, North Carolina, but inspired by Johnson’s family recipe. Who knew racecar driving and moonshine crossed paths so often?
Modern Man commends this moonshine’s quality because it goes through a triple-distillation process, making it smooth “with a nose that’s only slightly reminiscent of cleaners.” They also note that it doesn’t have much of a burn.Â
7. Popcorn Sutton’ Tennessee White Whiskey
Popcorn Sutton’s Tennessee White Whiskey, also known as moonshine, is a legendary spirit deeply rooted in American history and folklore. This alcoholic beverage has been a symbol of craftsmanship and the pursuit of freedom for generations and was created by moonshine legend, Marvin “Popcorn” Sutton. “Popcorn Sutton uses the same timeworn recipe and rebel attitude as their namesake. And at 88 proof, Popcorn Sutton Original Small Batch Recipe is as pure and smooth as an Appalachian mountain stream,” reports Spirit Hunters.Â
Swirled calls it a “smooth yet sweet aromatic whiskey” due to its splash of Southern sweet tea. As Sutton himself once said, ‘Jesus turned the water into wine, I turned it into likker,'” adds Wide Open Country.
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Sources:
- Wide Open Country
- Claw Hammer Supply
- Modern Man
- Southern Living
- Swirled
- Spirit Hunters
- Huff Post
- Thrillist
Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This article may contain affiliate links in which we receive a commission if you make a purchase.