How long does moonshine last? This is a common query among those who love this classic and potent homemade brew.
Just like other spirits, if properly stored, moonshine can last indefinitely. However, this doesn’t mean its quality remains the same throughout. In fact, the flavor, aroma, and overall quality of moonshine can degrade over time.
In this blog post, I will share my personal experience as a seasoned brewer regarding the shelf-life of moonshine, how to properly store it, and what factors can influence its longevity.
Understanding Moonshine
Before we dive into how long moonshine lasts, let’s take a moment to understand what moonshine is. Essentially, moonshine is a type of distilled alcohol, usually homemade, and traditionally produced illicitly. Its name originates from the term “moonrakers,” which was used to refer to early English smugglers and the secret distilleries where they made the liquor.
Moonshine is typically made from a mixture of cornmeal, sugar, water, yeast, and sometimes malt. This mixture is fermented and then distilled to produce a high-proof spirit. Since it’s often produced at home, moonshine does not have the same strict production standards as commercial alcohols, which can lead to significant variations in its quality, potency, and safety.
Factors Influencing The Shelf-Life Of Moonshine
The shelf-life of moonshine depends on multiple factors. These include the quality of ingredients used, the distillation process, and how it’s stored. High-quality ingredients and a precise distillation process can extend the life of moonshine, while poor storage conditions can significantly reduce it.
Quality of Ingredients
The quality of the ingredients used in making moonshine significantly affects its shelf-life. For instance, using fresh and high-quality cornmeal, sugar, and yeast will result in a superior brew that lasts longer.
Distillation Process
The distillation process also plays an essential role in determining the longevity of moonshine. A well-distilled moonshine, free from impurities, will not only last longer but also taste better.
How To Store Moonshine Properly
Correct storage is crucial to maintaining the quality and prolonging the life of moonshine. Moonshine should be stored in a cool, dark place, preferably in a glass container with a tight seal. Exposure to light, heat, and oxygen can degrade its quality over time.
When Does Moonshine Start To Degrade?
Even with ideal storage conditions, moonshine will start to degrade over time. The high alcohol content in moonshine acts as a preservative, but the flavor and aroma will start to change after about 1-2 years. This is especially true for flavored moonshines, which can start to lose their taste after a few months.
Is Old Moonshine Safe To Drink?
Yes, old moonshine is safe to drink, but its taste may not be as good as when it was fresh. Like other spirits, the alcohol content in moonshine acts as a preservative, preventing it from spoiling. However, if the moonshine gives off an off smell or has visible mold or particles, it’s best to discard it.
Conclusion
So, to answer the age-old question, “how long does moonshine last?” – moonshine can last indefinitely if stored properly, but its taste and aroma will start to degrade over time. It’s best to consume moonshine within 1-2 years of production to enjoy its full flavor.
Here are ten quick facts about moonshine:
1. Moonshine is typically a homemade, high-proof distilled spirit.
2. Its name comes from the term “moonrakers,” used for early English smugglers.
3. Moonshine is usually made from cornmeal, sugar, water, yeast, and sometimes malt.
4. The shelf-life of moonshine depends on the quality of ingredients, the distillation process, and storage conditions.
5. Fresh and high-quality ingredients result in a longer-lasting moonshine.
6. Proper distillation can extend the life of moonshine.
7. Moonshine should be stored in a cool, dark place, ideally in a glass container with a tight seal.
8. The flavor and aroma of moonshine start to degrade after about 1-2 years.
9. Flavored moonshines can start to lose their taste after a few months.
10. Old moonshine is safe to drink, but if it has an off smell, visible mold, or particles, it should be discarded.
FAQs
Can you drink 30 year old moonshine?
It is not recommended to drink 30-year-old moonshine. Moonshine is typically produced and consumed without proper distillation and quality control measures, which can lead to the presence of harmful impurities. Over time, these impurities can become more concentrated and potentially pose health risks. It is always safer to consume commercially produced and regulated alcoholic beverages.
Is 20 year old moonshine still good?
It is generally not recommended to consume moonshine that is 20 years old. Moonshine is typically produced without proper regulation or quality control measures, which can lead to a high risk of contamination and spoilage over time. Additionally, the high alcohol content of moonshine can cause it to degrade and lose its flavor over extended periods. It is best to exercise caution and avoid consuming moonshine of uncertain age or quality.
Can you drink 20 year old moonshine?
It is generally not recommended to consume 20-year-old moonshine. Moonshine is typically made without proper distillation and quality control measures, which can lead to the presence of harmful impurities. Over time, these impurities can become more concentrated and potentially pose health risks. It is always advisable to prioritize safety and consume regulated, commercially produced beverages instead.
Can you store moonshine in mason jars?
Yes, you can store moonshine in mason jars. Mason jars are commonly used for preserving and storing various types of food and beverages, including homemade moonshine. They are designed to create an airtight seal, which helps to maintain the quality and freshness of the liquid. However, it is important to ensure that the moonshine is properly distilled and the jars are cleaned and sanitized before use to prevent contamination or spoilage.
How long does moonshine last in a Mason jar?
Moonshine can last indefinitely if stored properly in a Mason jar. The high alcohol content acts as a preservative, preventing bacterial growth and spoilage. However, it’s important to ensure the jar is tightly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place to maintain its quality over time.
Can you drink 100 year old moonshine?
It is not recommended to drink 100-year-old moonshine. Moonshine is typically made from distilled spirits, and over time, the alcohol can degrade, leading to changes in flavor, quality, and potential health risks. The aging process for moonshine is usually much shorter compared to other spirits like whiskey or brandy. Consuming such old moonshine may pose a significant health hazard due to the potential accumulation of harmful substances or the presence of bacteria. It is always best to exercise caution and avoid consuming extremely old homemade alcohol.
