When it comes to finding a liquor that is closest to moonshine, there are a few factors to consider. Moonshine is a term used to describe illegally produced and unaged spirits, often made in homemade stills. It has a long history in the United States, particularly in the southern states where it has become a part of the culture and tradition.
The ingredients used in making moonshine can vary, but they typically include corn, rye, and sugar. These ingredients are fermented and distilled to create a high-proof spirit. In the southern states, corn is the most commonly used ingredient, which gives moonshine its distinct flavor and character. It is worth noting that moonshine is essentially the same as corn whiskey, as both are made using similar methods and ingredients.
Corn whiskey, also known as bourbon, is a type of whiskey that must be made from a minimum of 51% corn in the United States. It is aged in charred oak barrels for a specified period of time, which gives it a smoother and more refined taste compared to moonshine. However, if we are looking for a liquor that is closest to moonshine in terms of taste and production, corn whiskey would be the best choice.
In terms of flavor profile, corn whiskey and moonshine share some similarities. Both have a sweet and slightly grainy taste, with hints of corn and a touch of spiciness from the rye. However, moonshine is typically much stronger and rougher around the edges compared to corn whiskey, due to its lack of aging and refinement.
There are also other liquors that can be considered similar to moonshine, although they may not be an exact match. White lightning, for example, is a term sometimes used to refer to unaged and high-proof spirits, similar to moonshine. It can be made from a variety of ingredients, including corn, grain, or even fruits. The taste and character of white lightning can vary greatly depending on the ingredients used and the distillation process.
In my personal experience, I have had the opportunity to taste both moonshine and corn whiskey. I found that moonshine had a more raw and intense flavor, with a slight burn and a distinctive corn sweetness. On the other hand, corn whiskey had a smoother and more balanced taste, with a deeper complexity and a hint of oak from the aging process. While both were enjoyable in their own ways, corn whiskey had a more refined and sophisticated character.
If you are looking for a liquor that is closest to moonshine in terms of taste and production, corn whiskey would be the best choice. It shares many similarities with moonshine, particularly in terms of the ingredients used and the flavor profile. However, it is important to note that moonshine has its own unique charm and appeal, stemming from its illicit history and homemade origins.