Ole Smoky White Lightnin’ Moonshine

2009 was the year the State of Tennessee decided to change its laws, allowing the making of moonshine for the very first time in over a century. Ole Smoky was co-founded by Joe Baker in Tennessee, and the brand has created a broad range of flavored Moonshine and more than a dozen Whiskeys, as well as canned ready-to-drink cocktails.

Basic Details & Specs

• Brand / Distillery: Ole Smoky Moonshine, based in Tennessee.

• Type: Unflavored moonshine / white whiskey.

• Proof / ABV: 100 proof, i.e. 50% ABV.

• Bottle Sizes: Commonly sold in 750 mL bottles.

• Distillation / Ingredients:

  • Made from corn-based neutral spirits.

  • Some sources say it is distilled six times for smoothness.

  • It is unaged (i.e. no barrel-aging).

Flavor & Usage Notes

• Aroma / Nose: Neutral grain, corn sweetness, mild alcohol.

• Palate / Taste: Clean with corn character, warming heat, “raw” whiskey feel.

• Finish: Dry and “hot” — noticeable alcohol burn lingering.

• Cocktail Use: Because it’s unflavored and strong, it’s often used in place of vodka / gin / tequila in cocktails.

• Neat / On the Rocks: It can be sipped straight, but the strength and heat make it a challenge for some.

Legal / Brand Context & Notes

• Ole Smoky is one of the modern, legal moonshine brands (i.e. it’s commercially produced under license) rather than illicit “bootleg” shine.

• They also produce flavored moonshines, lower proof lines, etc.

• Some enthusiasts point out that while it’s called moonshine, because it’s legally bottled and sold, it differs from traditional illicit moonshine.