Josh Owens and Bill Canny, popular stars of Moonshiners, have long shared their expertise in distilling moonshine. Over the years, they’ve learned what works best and have developed a few essential tips for running a successful still.
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Proper Still Setup and Maintenance
One of the first lessons Josh and Bill emphasize is the importance of setting up your still properly. A well-constructed and well-maintained still is the backbone of a successful moonshine operation. Josh, with his hands-on approach, has been known for constructing sturdy stills that can withstand the elements, a necessity for hidden, outdoor operations. Copper stills are highly recommended due to their ability to conduct heat evenly, which ensures a smoother distillation process. Regular maintenance, including cleaning the still after each use, ensures that no contaminants affect the quality of the moonshine.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Josh and Bill are also sticklers for using the best ingredients. Quality corn, sugar, and water are essential to producing a smooth, high-proof shine. According to Josh, using locally sourced grains can add unique flavors to your batch, depending on the regional qualities of the soil and climate. Additionally, ensuring clean, pure water is crucial, as any impurities can significantly affect the taste of the final product.
Temperature Control is Key
One of the more technical tips Josh and Bill offer is mastering temperature control. Distilling moonshine requires precision, especially during the fermentation and distillation stages. If the mash is too hot or too cold, it can throw off the fermentation process, leading to a lower yield or a poor-tasting batch. Bill often advises running the still "low and slow," allowing the alcohol vapors to condense at the proper rate. The optimal temperature for running a still is around 172°F (78°C), as this is when alcohol evaporates, leaving behind undesirable compounds like methanol.
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Safety First
Josh and Bill are quick to point out the dangers of moonshining. From potential run-ins with the law to the inherent risks of distilling alcohol, safety should always be a priority. Josh, who has had his fair share of accidents, including severe injuries from motorcycle racing and still work, emphasizes the importance of being cautious with fire, gas, and the distillation process itself. A small leak in a still or improper handling of flammable materials can lead to explosions, so always double-check your equipment for any signs of damage.
Location and Secrecy
In the world of illegal moonshining, keeping your operation hidden is essential. Josh and Bill often scouted out remote, secluded areas in the Appalachian wilderness to set up their stills, ensuring they stayed off the radar of law enforcement. They also used natural barriers like trees and rocks to conceal their equipment from aerial detection. Josh has spoken about the importance of picking a site with access to fresh water and sufficient space to store materials without drawing attention.
Patience and Timing
Another crucial tip the duo shares is the importance of patience. Moonshine production is not something that can be rushed, especially when aiming for a high-quality end product. Bill often remarks on the necessity of letting the fermentation process take its full course. Trying to speed things up could result in a lower yield or subpar shine. Additionally, understanding when to stop distillation and avoid unwanted fusel oils (which create a harsh taste) is something that only comes with practice and a good nose for the craft.
Adapt to the Weather
Weather can often be a major challenge for outdoor distillers like Josh and Bill. They have faced everything from freezing temperatures to torrential rain while trying to run their stills. Over the years, they have learned to adapt to these conditions by insulating fermentation barrels during cold spells and using tarps to protect equipment from rain. Bill, with his deep knowledge of carpentry, often created makeshift shelters to keep their operations going, regardless of the weather.
Know When to Call it Quits
Finally, one of the most valuable lessons Josh and Bill have shared is knowing when to walk away. If a still site becomes compromised or the risks become too great, it’s better to abandon the operation than to get caught or injured. They’ve both experienced close calls, and as much as they love the art of moonshining, they understand the importance of staying safe and avoiding unnecessary legal trouble.
Through their years of experience, Josh Owens and Bill Canny have honed their craft and developed a strong understanding of what it takes to run a successful moonshine operation. Whether it’s ensuring the right setup, mastering temperature control, or simply being patient with the process, their top tips offer valuable insights for any aspiring moonshiner.
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