Moonshine

Moonshine is a term for illicitly distilled liquor, especially unaged, clear spirits made outside legal controls.

Moonshine is illicitly distilled liquor, typically unaged and clear. The term is historically tied to night-time production to avoid detection, and it is strongly associated with American Prohibition and Appalachian folk culture.

What it is

Moonshine is generally defined as illicitly distilled liquor, often a clear, unaged whiskey made from corn. It is produced outside legal controls to avoid taxes and law enforcement.

Why it matters

Moonshine has deep roots in American history, especially during Prohibition when illegal distilling flourished. It also played a role in rural cash economies and became embedded in Appalachian folk culture. The term itself dates back to the 15th century, with its illicit liquor meaning emerging in the late 18th century.

Key details

In the 21st century, some legal distilleries market spirits as "moonshine" for branding, though these are legal products. For Canadian readers, moonshine is relevant as a term for illicit home-distilled alcohol, and unlicensed distilling is regulated under Canadian law.