How is moonshine made?

1. 83

   GA Andersonposted 13 years ago

   How is moonshine made?

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2. 61

   Alexander Peaseposted 13 years ago

   Corn, Potatoes, or even wheat is fermented.
   
   Then, the alcohol is separated from the resulting mixture, distilled a few times, and tested for quality.
   
   The goal is to get as much alcohol per volume as possible, 120 proof and up are common for moonshine.
   
   However, if the starting fermentation isn't done correctly, harmful acids such as,  ethyl acetate can form in the mixture. It is similar to acetic acid which is used in nail polish, manufacturing, etc.
   
   If  ethyl acetate is ingested in large quantities it can cause blindness, organ failure, or even death.
   
   Making moonshine is actually illegal in most states for a few reasons.
   
   First, during distillation there is the chance that the alcohol will react with the heat generated. This reaction would cause the alcohol to combust, resulting in an explosion.
   
   Second, it is illegal because it is not taxable.

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3. 88

   crazyhorsesghostposted 13 years ago

   
   
   Moonshine is made by working off mash and then when it is fermented it is run through a still and when it is made right a clear white liquor that has a high concentration of alcohol comes out. There in the photo you can see a moonshine still.
   
   For a while people had almost stopped making moonshine but it is now again a big business in some states in the American south and believe it or not but NASCAR has its roots in moonshine. It was those delivery drivers of the moonshine that went on to become the first NASCAR drivers and the rest is history.
   
   If you watch CABLE TV you will see they now have a show on the History Channel about making and selling moonshine and it shows the Treasury Department still trying to track down and capture the moonshiners. My own Grandfather over 50 years ago made what they said at the time was some of the best moonshine in the world. He used a all copper still and he produced a high quality product.
   
   A true test of how pure moonshine is that you pour a small amount of moonshine out into a spoon and you should be able to light the best moonshine and it should burn almost with a clear flame.

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4. 78

   robie2posted 13 years ago

   very quietly so the revenuers won't find out :-)

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5. 60

   feenixposted 13 years ago

   How is moonshine made?
   
   I exercise my right under the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

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