moonshine

Moonshine is illicitly produced distilled liquor, typically made in small, concealed stills. The term originates from the practice of distilling under the light of the moon to avoid detection. While commonly associated with the United States, moonshine also refers to unlicensed spirits in other regions, with local names.

Production involves fermenting a mash of grains—often corn, but sometimes rye, barley, or sugar sources—and distilling the wash to concentrate alcohol. Because it is produced without regulatory oversight, quality and purity vary; methanol may be present when distillation is poorly controlled. Many moonshines are unaged and appear clear, though some are aged in barrels or in improvised containers to alter flavor.

Legally, producing spirits for sale without a license is illegal in many countries, including the United States, though some jurisdictions regulate and tax small-scale distilleries under licenses. In the United States, moonshine production surged during Prohibition (1920–1933) as an illicit supply. Moonshine has a long cultural history in rural North America, especially in Appalachia, and has influenced whiskey traditions and popular media. Modern interest includes legal craft distilling that markets shine products under regulated labels.