Is vodka basically moonshine? This is a common question that often arises when discussing distilled spirits. While both vodka and moonshine are clear, unaged spirits, there are some key differences between the two.
First, let's talk about moonshine. Moonshine is traditionally made from a mash that typically includes corn and other grains. The exact recipe can vary, but corn is often the primary ingredient. Moonshine is typically produced in homemade stills, hence the term “moonshine,” which refers to illicit production that often occurred under the cover of darkness during Prohibition in the United States.
The production process of moonshine involves fermenting the mash, which converts the sugars into alcohol, and then distilling the alcohol to increase its potency. Moonshine is usually bottled directly from the still and is typically bottled at a high proof, often around 125 proof or higher. Due to its homemade nature and lack of regulation, moonshine can vary in quality and flavor.
On the other hand, vodka is a commercially produced spirit that must meet specific legal requirements. Vodka is made from grains such as wheat, rye, or corn, or even from ingredients like potatoes or grapes. These grains or ingredients are used to produce a neutral spirit known as Grain Neutral Spirit (GNS). The GNS is then distilled multiple times to achieve a high level of purity and remove any impurities or flavors.
Unlike moonshine, vodka is typically distilled using large-scale commercial distillation equipment that ensures consistency and quality control. The distillation process for vodka aims to create a clean and neutral spirit that is devoid of any distinct flavor or aroma. This neutrality allows vodka to serve as a versatile base for cocktails and mixers.
Another difference between vodka and moonshine is the proof at which they are bottled. While moonshine is often bottled at a higher proof, vodka is typically bottled at a lower proof, around 80 proof (40% alcohol by volume). However, it's worth noting that there are higher-proof vodkas available on the market.
In terms of taste, moonshine can have a more robust and grainy flavor profile due to the presence of the mash ingredients, while vodka is intentionally designed to be flavorless and odorless. This neutrality allows vodka to blend seamlessly with other ingredients in cocktails without overpowering them.
To summarize, while vodka and moonshine share some similarities as unaged, clear spirits, there are significant differences in their production methods, ingredients, and flavor profiles. Moonshine is often made in homemade stills using a mash primarily composed of corn and other grains, while vodka is produced commercially using neutral spirits made from grains, potatoes, or grapes. Vodka is distilled multiple times to achieve a high level of purity and is bottled at a lower proof compared to moonshine.