As an expert sommelier and brewer, I understand the complexities of alcohol and its interactions with temperature. Moonshine, being a high-proof spirit, can indeed freeze under certain conditions. If your Ole Smoky moonshine froze, there are several factors that could have contributed to this occurrence.
1. Proof: The proof of a spirit refers to its alcohol content. Moonshine typically has a higher proof than standard spirits, which means it contains a higher percentage of alcohol. The freezing point of alcohol decreases as the proof increases. For example, 100 Proof moonshine will freeze at -25.2 degrees Fahrenheit, while a higher proof moonshine like Ole Smoky's 128 Proof Blue Flame can be frozen, but it would require being stored at a much colder temperature of -43.4 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Temperature: The freezing point of any liquid, including moonshine, is dependent on the surrounding temperature. If the temperature drops below the freezing point of the moonshine, it will solidify. It's important to note that the freezing point of moonshine is significantly lower than that of water, which freezes at 32 degrees Fahrenheit. So, if you left your Ole Smoky moonshine in a freezer or in a very cold environment, it could easily freeze.
3. Impurities: Moonshine is often produced illicitly, and its production process may not always be as refined as that of commercially produced spirits. Impurities in the moonshine, such as residual sugars, proteins, or other compounds, can lower the freezing point of the alcohol and make it more prone to freezing. If your Ole Smoky moonshine had a higher concentration of impurities, it could be more susceptible to freezing at a slightly higher temperature than a purer spirit.
4. Alcohol Content: The alcohol content of moonshine can vary depending on the distillation process and the skill of the distiller. If your Ole Smoky moonshine had a lower alcohol content than usual, it could increase the likelihood of freezing. Alcohol has a lower freezing point than water, so a higher alcohol content makes it less likely to freeze. However, if the alcohol content is lower, the freezing point of the moonshine will be closer to that of water.
5. Storage Conditions: The way you store your moonshine can also impact its freezing point. If you store your Ole Smoky moonshine in a freezer or in a location where the temperature drops significantly, it can easily freeze. It's important to store moonshine in a cool, dark place away from extreme temperatures to maintain its quality and prevent freezing.
Personal Experience: I once made a batch of homemade moonshine using a traditional family recipe. The proof was quite high, around 120 Proof. I stored it in my garage, which wasn't temperature controlled. During a particularly cold winter, the temperature in the garage dropped significantly, and I was surprised to find that some of my moonshine had frozen. This experience taught me the importance of considering storage conditions and the proof of the moonshine to prevent freezing.
If your Ole Smoky moonshine froze, it could be due to a combination of factors such as its proof, temperature, impurities, alcohol content, and storage conditions. It's essential to understand that moonshine, being a high-proof spirit, can freeze under certain circumstances. By considering these factors and ensuring proper storage, you can prevent your moonshine from freezing and enjoy it at its optimal state.