Distilled spirits are a deep and intrinsic part of the American drinking culture. From whiskies, rum, and craft gin to brandies and cognac, these delicious beverages are ideal for festivities, celebrations, social gatherings, and commiserations alike. With modern distilling and new recipes, the US spirits scene has seen a resurgence post-prohibition. And several small-batch distilleries deliver uniquely customized alcohol recipes. The popularity of distilled spirits has also given rise to several myths and misconceptions. Although some myths are harmless, others could change how you perceive the drink. Let’s now debunk common myths about distilled spirits.

Myth 1: Whiskey Stones Cool Better

On the surface, whiskey stones are the perfect gift that allows one to chill their drinks without diluting them, a big sin in the drinking world. However, the fact is whiskey stones are almost entirely useless. They neither help cool your drink down nor prevent dilution. Whiskey experts reckon ice could be a more effective way to cool your drink. Ice turns from solid to liquid when it interacts with the alcohol, and in the process, it takes heat from the liquid rather than transferring its coldness, a process whiskey stones can’t replicate.

Myth 2: Knocks and Dents in the Still Can Improve the Quality

There is a common myth regarding how every dent and knock on a still can help alter the quality of your favorite spirit. Although these imperfections can slightly impact the taste, they don’t count much.

Several variables within the distillery contribute to the quality of the spirit. These may include the materials used, the distillation process, and the aging duration. However, a small change in the surface area of a still isn’t going to necessarily impact the craft spirit itself. A couple of dents here and there cannot make much of an impact regarding the overall quality.

Myth 3: All Moonshine is Better Produced at Night

Traditionally, moonshine began as an illegal commodity. Due to its former illegal status, those producing it would have to situate themselves deep in the remote woods and under the cover of night to avoid detection from law enforcement. This is how this iconic spirit gets its name.

Essentially, the late-night distilling process has nothing to do with the quality or flavor of the drink and more to do with guaranteeing the freedom of the people making the drink. Now that moonshine is legal for distilling in various parts of the country, distilleries often make these delicious craft spirits during normal business hours with no need for clandestine operations.

Myth 4: Longer-Aged Whiskey Tastes Better

You have probably heard that older whiskey is always better, hence their premium prices. Well, these assertions could be entirely based on assumptions rather than facts. Technically, it takes only a few days to distill your whiskey. This means you can be enjoying a glass almost immediately. However, some young whiskey flavors can taste like malted barley mixed with rubbing alcohol.

To get their classic smokey flavors and golden brown colors, whiskey ages in barrels and is stored in a specific environment. Over time, the unpalatable elements of the drink will diffuse into the barrel walls. The wood will also enhance their flavor and color. However, the aging process doesn’t have to be extensive. Ageing whiskey for too long doesn’t necessarily enhance its taste. In fact, in some cases, older whiskey may acquire an overpowering flavor to make it less desirable.

Myth 5: Too Much Moonshine Can Cause Blindness

Although this has some elements of truth, it has been blown out of proportion and requires some unpacking. The fact is moonshine can make you go blind if it is made incorrectly or distilled in old lead pipes. These conditions lend the drink high levels of methanol, which could be fatal. The human liver breaks down methyl alcohol to formic acids and formaldehyde. These chemicals can affect our eyes and cause blindness. Persons making moonshine in their homes tend to be more prone to these health hazards, primarily where improper techniques and wrong tools are used. However, legal moonshine from established distillers doesn’t carry any risk of blindness due to the stringent distilling requirements.

Myth 6: Rum is a Caribbean/West Indian spirit

Another prevalent myth is the association of rum exclusively with the Caribbean and the West Indies. While it’s true that rum’s commercial origins trace back to the sugar cane fields and tropical climates of these regions, an intriguing historical fact often overlooked is that before the American Revolution, a thriving rum industry existed in New England, USA. In fact, numerous rum distilleries were scattered across the New England landscape, adding a fascinating dimension to the rich tapestry of rum’s history.

Myth 7: All bourbon is made in Kentucky

While the Bluegrass State is the most famous and traditional region for bourbon production, there are also distilleries in other states producing excellent bourbon. Craft distilleries are popping up in many states, contributing to the diversity of American bourbon. Today, you will find several bourbon distilleries in non-traditional states such as Tennessee, Indiana, New York, and Texas experimenting with different techniques and flavors.

Myth 8: Vodka is always distilled from potatoes.

Although only 3% of the world’s vodka comes from potatoes, there is a common misconception among enthusiasts that all vodka comes from starch. In reality, and unlike other spirit categories, vodka can be distilled from an array of materials containing starches such as wheat and corn. Since there are no regulations regarding the specific agricultural products to make the spirit, several brands are getting creative with labels, such as Kástra Elión and Barr Hill, opting to use olives and Vermont honey, respectively.

Use DistilleryNearby Directory to Plan Your Next Distillery Tour

With the craft distilling movement gaining momentum and small independent distilleries springing up across the country, a distillery tour can be a great chance to get a sense of craftsmanship and artistry in the production of the beverage. You will also get a chance to interact with master distillers and counter-check the common myths you have heard about your favorite spirit. DistilleryNearby offers a comprehensive directory to browse distilleries near you. Browse the directory today for a tailored state-by-state list of distilleries to visit.