Josh Owens and Bill Canny, two of the stars from Discovery Channel's Moonshiners, have gained notoriety not just for their rebellious spirits but for their ability to craft award-winning moonshine. Their journey and mastery of this traditional American craft are based on a combination of heritage, hands-on experimentation, and attention to quality. Let’s dive into some of their top secrets and techniques for creating exceptional spirits, drawing from their years of experience.
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The Art of Using Local Ingredients
One of the key elements that make Josh and Bill's moonshine stand out is their commitment to using local and fresh ingredients. As Bill has demonstrated on various episodes of Moonshiners, sourcing locally ensures that the product has an authentic, regional taste. This is not only an economic decision but a reflection of the deep-rooted traditions in rural areas where moonshine has been made for centuries. Both Josh and Bill emphasize that using high-quality corn, fruits, and grains is crucial to the final flavor of the spirit.
In some episodes, Josh has mentioned the importance of yeast as a component in distilling. After the show gained popularity, he found that even getting yeast from local suppliers became harder due to the rising interest in home distilling. Yeast, after all, is an essential element in the fermentation process, and different strains can dramatically affect the flavor of the final product. This attention to detail in every ingredient ensures that their spirits have a distinct character.
Innovation and Tradition Hand-in-Hand
While both moonshiners respect the traditions handed down through generations, they are not afraid to innovate. For example, Josh has discussed how the show has sparked curiosity about self-sustainability and traditional craftsmanship, something that resonates in an era of economic and environmental uncertainties. Moonshiners like Josh and Bill take pride in continuing to experiment with flavors and distillation methods while remaining true to old-world processes.
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Bill Canny, known for his precision and creativity, incorporates age-old recipes dating back to the Prohibition era. His deep understanding of the craft allows him to tweak and improve on methods passed down through generations. One method they’ve shared involves carefully monitoring the temperature and timing of distillation. Both men highlight that controlling the heat of the still is essential for drawing out the purest alcohol while avoiding impurities like methanol, which can spoil the batch.
Proofing and Taste Testing
Proofing is an integral part of the moonshine-making process, and Josh and Bill are known for their meticulous approach to it. Proofing refers to measuring the alcohol content of the spirit, but for them, it’s not just about getting a high number—it’s about balance. Traditional proofing methods involve testing the shine with gunpowder or using old-school hydrometers, and they’ve shown both on the series. The goal is to find the sweet spot where the alcohol is strong but still smooth, which is critical for winning competitions and pleasing consumers.
Taste testing, too, plays a significant role in their craft. As with any high-quality spirit, constant tasting throughout the distillation process ensures that each batch meets their exacting standards. Josh and Bill emphasize that while equipment is important, it’s the palate of the distiller that ultimately determines the quality of the moonshine.
Going Legit Without Losing Their Roots
One fascinating aspect of their story is how moonshining has evolved from a strictly illegal activity into a legitimate business for some, thanks to changing laws in many Southern states. Josh has commented on how commercial moonshine makers, like Sugarlands Distilling Company, have introduced his products to a wider audience, albeit with taxes and regulations involved. While many traditionalists might frown upon this commercialization, Josh and Bill continue to make small-batch, artisanal spirits in the old ways, even if some of their peers have gone completely legal.
Despite this evolution, they are clear that the essence of moonshine—independence, resourcefulness, and a bit of rebelliousness—remains intact. For them, it’s about preserving the freedom to make spirits the way they want, using techniques passed down from their ancestors.
The Importance of Teamwork
Throughout their journey, both Josh and Bill have shown that moonshining isn’t just a solitary activity; it requires teamwork and collaboration. The two worked together for years on Moonshiners, navigating the challenges of both the distilling process and their complex friendship. While Bill has since moved away from the series, their partnership showcased the value of collaboration when creating something as intricate as high-quality moonshine.
In conclusion, Josh and Bill’s success in crafting award-winning moonshine can be attributed to their dedication to quality ingredients, adherence to tradition, innovative techniques, and a deep understanding of the craft. Their experience shows that moonshining, though rooted in a rich past, is an evolving art form that continues to adapt and grow in today’s world. Whether it’s tweaking old recipes or using modern distilling equipment, Josh and Bill have shown that the secret to great moonshine lies not just in the ingredients or the process but in the passion behind the craft.
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