Popcorn Sutton, a renowned Appalachian moonshiner, gained widespread recognition following the airing of a documentary by the Discovery TV network titled “Moonshiners.” The show delved into Sutton’s life, which tragically ended in suicide in 2009, leaving behind a legacy as the first moonshiner to receive federal approval for his white whiskey. His widow, Pam Sutton, revealed that they operate a distillery in Nashville, Tennessee, where they legally produce Tennessee Wild Whiskey, a nod to the restrictions on using the term “moonshine.”
Sutton’s journey was chronicled in his 1999 biography, “Me and My Likker,” which was intended to be a multi-volume series, although only the first volume was completed. Despite moonshine production being illegal in the United States, Sutton shared his secret recipe for making the potent liquor, which included ingredients like white cornmeal, sugar, and malt.
The process involved boiling water, mixing in cornmeal, sugar, and malt, and allowing the concoction to ferment for a day until it started bubbling. Moonshiners could then extract the liquor or opt to distill it further for a higher-quality end product. However, studies have cautioned against consuming homemade moonshine due to potential contamination with harmful substances like lead and ethyl carbamate.
While Sutton’s recipe remains a closely guarded secret, other online sources offer tips and techniques for producing moonshine at home. Websites like Copper Moonshine Stills, Home Distiller, and Good Ole Ways provide enthusiasts with alternative recipes and methods for crafting their own illicit brews.
The fascination with moonshine extends beyond just the production process, with many drawn to the history and culture surrounding this illicit spirit. Moonshining has deep roots in American history, particularly during Prohibition when bootleggers thrived in the shadows, evading law enforcement to supply demand for illegal alcohol.
Today, the allure of moonshine persists, with enthusiasts exploring traditional recipes and techniques while incorporating modern twists to create unique flavors and profiles. The DIY spirit of moonshining continues to captivate individuals seeking to connect with a bygone era of rebellion and ingenuity.
As moonshine gains renewed popularity in mainstream media and pop culture, it serves as a reminder of a time when individuals took risks to produce and distribute their own spirits, challenging authority and embracing the thrill of the illicit. While the legal landscape has evolved, the legacy of moonshiners like Popcorn Sutton endures, inspiring a new generation of enthusiasts to try their hand at crafting their own hooch.
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