Climax Moonshine Original Recipe

This is the initial recipe used on the television show, Moonshiners. It is an unflavored corn whiskey at 45% ABV, contract distilled by Belmont Farms Distillery in Culpeper, VA. This distillery is situated about 75 miles from the Shenandoah mountain location of the show's "hidden stills." This facility also produces the Kopper Kettle spirits and Virginia Lightning corn whiskey. The aroma is dominated by butter and corn. Some sugar notes emerge, making it smell more like butterscotch candies. The taste is similar, with a powerful sensation of licking a piece of warm butter. There is very little heat or harshness, mainly because it is diluted to a more appropriate 90 proof. Most high-quality, illicit moonshine is over 125 proof and requires little dilution to be palatable. Overall, it is more of a whiskey riding on popularity from the television program and other factors. Currently, it is only sold in Virginia, but I believe the distiller is actively seeking out struggling craft breweries/distilleries to "assist" in order to expand into other states' alcohol markets. For instance, the Fire No. 32 cinnamon version is now being produced in Asheville, NC, so it is likely available there too. At $30 for a 750ml bottle, it is extremely overpriced, but if I were to rate it as a typical moonshine, I would say it is just about average compared to others on the legal market. 2.5 stars.

A remarkably genuine flavor of what a well-made moonshine ought to taste like. Today, if you purchase "moonshine" from country folk, you're likely getting inferior liquor made mostly from sugar and poorly made spirits. A genuine country style moonshine would contain corn, barley, and sugar, which this poorly named "Climax" moonshine does. Few people today are ready for pure corn whiskey, a potent grain flavor that is an acquired taste when young. The blend of sugar, creating a neutral base, lessens the intensity of the corn flavor, while a hint of malt adds a familiar bread-like quality. For sipping on its own, I find little use for it. I simply do not favor unaged corn whiskey. Technically, it is well-executed. The price is far too high for the product and the value is poor. You are paying for novelty. But if you wanted to know what a proper moonshine should taste like, this is it.

I purchased this a couple of years back due to my appreciation for the TV series. I haven't had it recently, but as far as I recall, it's acceptable for consumption. It's not something I'd consider a fine whiskey for sipping. I even mixed it with Pepsi and ruined a good can of soda. I'm unsure of other ways to make this corn spirit enjoyable. It's more drain cleaner; I can't think of any other use for it.

It's primarily corn-forward, presenting a tequila-like quality and a spicy finish. Quite mellow. Excellent for mixing into a strong lemonade or iced tea. I'm a fan, though it's a touch too expensive.

I consumed this at my cousin's funeral; it performed as its name implies. 0.25 stars for the awkward public interactions.

Excellent if you appreciate clear corn whiskeys. Far superior to any other readily available option I've ever tried.