There’s a lot of myths and misconceptions surrounding the moonshining trade. Whether you’re an amateur ‘shiner’ or if you’ve been doing it for decades, there are probably some things you didn’t know about this hobby/profession. In this post, we’re going to cover some fast facts about moonshine, separating the truth from the fiction.
Fact #1) The Term “Moonshine” Originated During The Early Colonial Days
Ever wonder how moonshine got its name? During the early days of America’s colonization by the British, smugglers referred to this homemade alcoholic beverage as “moonshine” because trades and operations were performed in the dark of night without nothing more than the moon’s light shining down. While other terms sprung up in reference to the beverage, moonshine is the single most popular and widely used term used to describe it.
Fact #2) It’s Also Called “White Lighting” In Reference To Its Colorless Appearance
Of course, another term that’s commonly used to describe moonshine is “white lighting.” In fact, there was even a 1973 action movie focused around moonshining titled “White Lightning,” which starred Burt Reynolds as Gator McKlusky. The term “white lightning” sprung up in reference to the beverage’s clear, colorless appearance. Pure, unadulterated moonshine looks strikingly similar to water; therefore, some people call it “white lightning.”
Fact #3) Spawned The Concept For Stock Car Racing
Yep, moonshine spawned the concept for modern-day stock car racing. Back in the early days of prohibition, bootleggers would modify their vehicles so they could outrun law enforcement. It wasn’t long before these bootleggers were racing each other to see who had the fastest car. The races became bigger and bigger until there was an actual organization — known as NASCAR — dedicated to stock car racing.
Fact #4) Can Be Made With a Variety of Different Fruits
Tired of drinking the same old grain-flavored moonshine? Rather than using a cornmeal-based mash for your shine, you should try producing it with some fruit. One of the great things about moonshine is that you can make it with a practically any type of fruit, some of which includes apples, peaches, strawberries and blackberries.
Fact #5) Contains ‘Roughly’ 80 Calories Per 1-Ounce Serving
A typical 1-ounce shot or serving of moonshine contains approximately 80 calories. Considering the fact that a single serving (can or bottle) of beer contains 140-150 calories, moonshine is actually a better choice. With that said, it’s recommended that you consume all alcoholic beverages in moderation, whether it’s beer, liquor or moonshine.
