So you enjoy a good drink, but when it comes to moonshine, you feel a little lost? Don’t worry, you don’t need to be a whiskey geek or spirits judge to enjoy great shine. Whether you’re hanging out at a BBQ or sitting down at Full Throttle Distillery, this article will help you taste moonshine like someone who’s been doing it for years.
Let’s fire it up.
What Is Moonshine, Anyway?
Back in the early 1900s, folks in Tennessee were making clear, unaged whiskey with corn mash. It was homemade, bold, and usually done in secret. Today, it’s legal and done right, with way more flavor, safety, and craftsmanship.
At Full Throttle Distillery, we stick with the same kind of recipe Michael Ballard used in Trimble, Tennessee. The shine we pour is still made in authentic copper stills with locally grown grain.
You Don’t Need Fancy Stuff
You won’t need anything fancy to taste moonshine properly. A glass and a good light will do just fine. Our spirits may be clear, but every single batch has its own feel and flavor.
Look, Smell, Sip, Enjoy
Step 1: Take a look.
A good pour should be clean and clear with no haze.
Step 2: Smell it.
Don’t stick your nose in the glass, hover above it and breathe in. You might catch a whiff of corn, fruit, spice, or vanilla.
Step 3: Sip, don’t shoot.
Take it slow and let it sit on your tongue. Let the warmth kick in and enjoy the flavor, it could be smooth, earthy, or sweet, depending on what you’re drinking.
Step 4: Let it finish.
Good shine leaves a clean finish. You’ll feel the heat, but it should go down smoothly.
Flavors That Hit Different
We don’t just make one flavor and call it a day. Full Throttle moonshine comes in everything from Platinum Batch to sweet peach, apple pie, and creamy liqueurs like our Southern Sippin’ Creams.
Everything is made with care, aged in white oak barrels, and bottled right at the source.
Food That Pairs Great With Shine
You can enjoy moonshine solo, but pairing it with the right food can make the experience way better.
- Spicy wings or smoked brisket go great with fruit or cinnamon shine.
- Cream liqueurs taste amazing with dessert—or over ice cream.
- Straight shine? Pair it with something savory like BBQ or smoked meats. Need ideas? Check our Branson menu or see The Spruce Eats’ list of food pairings.
Where You Can Try It
If you’re near Branson, MO, we offer daily tastings with no reservation needed.
Tastings are Free! Just need a valid ID and 21+ only. Details at Full Throttle Distillery.
Time to Sip Like You Mean It
Now you’ve got what you need. Tasting moonshine should feel easy, fun, and real. No suits, no rules. Just the right pour and the right crew.
Stop in and taste what we’re about. We’ll be ready when you are.
Ready to roll?
Visit Full Throttle Distillery and take home your favorite flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moonshine Tasting
1. Can I use moonshine in cocktails, or should it be sipped only?
Yes! Moonshine works great in cocktails. Try it in sweet tea, lemonade, or a fruity mix. Our Southern Sippin’ Creams are perfect for creamy drinks too. To know more about our cocktails, visit our sections here.
2. What’s the difference between homemade and distillery-made moonshine?
Modern distilleries like ours follow strict safety standards. That means no surprises, just good, clean spirits made the right way.
3. What temperature should I serve moonshine at?
Room temperature works best for tasting all the flavors. If you’re drinking a creamy shine, chilling it can make it more dessert-like.
4. Do flavored shines affect how I should taste them?
They sure do. Start with lighter flavors and move toward the stronger, bolder ones. That way you don’t numb your taste buds early.
5. Is moonshine always stronger than other liquors?
Not always. Some shine hits 100+ proof, however we also have 70 proof options. Just ask your server what’s in the glass, you’ll be glad you did.
