Ep 3. Luck of the Irish

In the third episode of season six of Moonshiners, titled "Luck of the Irish," we follow traditional Appalachian moonshiners as they continue to face the constant threat of law enforcement and competition from rival distillers. This episode has a heavy focus on Tim, a veteran moonshiner who has perfected his craft over decades, along with his partner Tickle, as they struggle to keep their operation hidden from the prying eyes of the authorities.

One of the central themes of the episode revolves around the importance of quality ingredients in creating a successful moonshine operation. Tim and Tickle begin the episode by harvesting a fresh crop of corn to use in their latest batch of moonshine. They emphasize the importance of using non-GMO corn and making sure that every ear is fully ripe and ready for the process.

Meanwhile, across the state of Tennessee, rival moonshiner Mark Rogers is also hard at work, using his own unique blend of ingredients to create a high-quality liquor that he hopes will put him ahead of his competitors. The episode highlights the competitive nature of moonshining, as Mark and Tim are constantly trying to outdo each other and create the best product possible.

As the episode progresses, we see the moonshiners facing more and more challenges, both from law enforcement and from Mother Nature herself. Heavy rains threaten to wash away their corn crop, while the threat of a raid from the police hangs over their heads. In one tense moment, Tim and Tickle must quickly hide all evidence of their operation as a helicopter flies overhead, searching for illegal moonshine operations.

Despite these challenges, the moonshiners never lose their determination and continue to work tirelessly to perfect their craft. We see them using homemade stills and traditional techniques to create moonshine that is smooth and high-quality, while also offering a window into the rich history and culture of Appalachia.

At its heart, "Luck of the Irish" is a fascinating exploration of a subculture which has largely remained hidden from the wider world. Whether you're interested in the history of Appalachia, the science of moonshining, or simply the thrill of watching people work hard to achieve their goals, this episode delivers in spades.