When venturing into the world of spirits, you may come across a term that seems entirely unrelated to moonshine—White Dog. So, why is moonshine called White Dog? Let’s delve into the fascinating history behind this peculiar name.
The Origins of White Dog Distilling
In the United States, during the earlier days of distillation, moonshine was often consumed as a raw, unaged spirit straight from the still. This unaged spirit is referred to as White Dog. But how did this term come into existence?
The name White Dog is believed to have originated from the appearance of the unaged spirit itself. When freshly distilled, the moonshine appears clear and colorless, resembling the pure white fur of a young dog, hence the name “White Dog.”
An Unaged Spirit with Many Names
While White Dog is the most commonly used term to describe unaged moonshine, this unique spirit has various other monikers that add a touch of regional flair to its identity. Some regions refer to it as “white lightning” due to its potency, while others may call it “light whiskey” or “white whiskey.”
The Process of White Dog Distilling
White Dog distilling involves a meticulous process that brings out the raw character of the base ingredients without aging them. Essentially, it bypasses the aging process to provide a glimpse into the unadulterated flavors of the distillate.
Unlike aged spirits, White Dog does not spend any time maturing in wooden barrels. This lack of aging imparts an unmistakably bold and raw flavor profile with vibrant notes that may not be present in its aged counterparts.
A Connection to Moonshining
Moonshining, the process of illegally distilling and producing spirits, has a long and storied history in the United States. Before it became commercially a
