14. Legal Moonshine: From Outlaw to Trend
In recent years, legal moonshine has experienced a remarkable revival, with distilleries like Ole Smoky and Sugarlands embracing their outlaw roots. These brands market “white lightning” as a nostalgic, authentic taste of Appalachian heritage—though crafted under strict regulations. While modern distillers celebrate their connection to the past, some purists argue that today’s legal moonshine lacks the danger and ingenuity of its illicit ancestors (The New York Times). Still, the spirit of rebellion remains a powerful selling point.
