Although moonshine originally referred to high-proof spirits that were distilled without government authorization as far back as the 1800’s, things have changed in recent years. Since 2010, moonshine is no longer illegal in the United States, but it still packs the same powerful punch that it always has. Usually made from corn mash, moonshine is clear, unaged whiskey that can range in strength from 40 proof all the way up to 100 proof (that’s 50% ABV!). And since its roots are firmly planted in the Appalachian Mountains, there are now more than 30 distilleries in North Carolina where you can sample a little of these famous spirits and experience a little Southern culture in the process.
Asheville Distilling Co., Asheville
When the owner of Asheville Distilling Co. set out to find the perfect moonshine recipe, she meant business. She tested numerous recipes until she distilled the perfect white liquor in 2010. Her secret? Crooked Creek Corn – an open-pollinated heirloom white corn. In fact, they are the only distillery in the world making moonshine from this corn and pure Appalachian spring water, so if you’re looking for a truly authentic Southern American moonshine, this is the one to try.
Howling Moon Distillery, Asheville
Also located in Asheville, NC, Howling Moon Distillery is named after its early ancestors who used to distill their illegal moonshine by the light of the moon. Their “Mountain Moonshine” is made with a recipe that is at least 150 years old and local corn that is grown exclusively for the distillery. At a whopping 100 proof, it packs quite a punch. But you can take a little of the edge off by trying one of their flavored moonshines like strawberry, peach or apple pie.
Piedmont Distillers, Madison
Piedmont Distillers, located in Madison, NC, was the first legal distillery in North Carolina since the times of Prohibition. Their two main types of moonshine, Midnight Moon Moonshine (made with NASCAR legend Junior Johnson’s recipe) and Catdaddy Spiced Moonshine, are both 40% alcohol by volume. Although the flavors of Midnight Moon vary a little, with Apple Pie at 35% ABV and Strawberry at 50% ABV. Catdaddy Spiced Moonshine is 80 proof, is triple-distilled, blended in small batches and features flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla.
Broadslab Distillery, Benson
The owner of Broadslab Distillery uses his grandfather’s moonshine recipe that was passed down through five generations. Made in the traditional 500-gallon solid copper pot still, with pure natural ingredients, Legacy Shine is an authentic moonshine experience. They also serve up a “Reserve” version that’s made with charred oak and an “Appleshine” that’s infused with 100% apple juice and natural spices.
Great Wagon Road Distilling Company, Charlotte
Great Wagon Road Distilling Company in Charlotte is the oldest distillery in Mecklenburg County and the first one in North Carolina with its own bar. The owner, Ollie Mulligan, hails from Ireland, where his grandfather was once arrested many years ago for making poitin – Irish moonshine. Now, at his Charlotte distillery, Ollie shares his passion for authentic, small batch spirits with products like Drumlish Poitin (from his grandfather’s infamous recipe), Rua – a single malt whiskey, and Quinn’s Barrel Rested Poitin, a special barrel-aged version of the original.
Dragon Moonshine Company, Charlotte
Also located in Charlotte, Dragon Moonshine Company is a veteran-owned, hand-crafted artisan distillery. The company’s owner has taken his love of moonshine from the days of making it in a makeshift still inside his Army barracks, to a top-shelf, locally sourced distillery. With two delicious flavors of moonshine available, Apple Pie and Amaretto, you’ll want to try them both. They also feature a Caribbean-style silver rum that’s made from pure cane sugar and molasses.
Walton's Distillery, Jacksonville
If flavored moonshines are your jam, then you’ll definitely want to check out Walton’s Distillery in Jacksonville, NC. First off, their sampling room and country store is adorably cute and authentically Southern, but you’ll also be in for a treat with their flavors, which include apple pie, peach, salted caramel, pineapple coconut and of course, an unflavored authentic Carolina Moonshine that measures in at 100 proof!
