Home distillers rejoice as US Supreme Court considers whether to finally legalise moonshine
Summary
The US Supreme Court will soon review a nearly 160-year-old law that makes home distilling of alcohol illegal. Hobbyists who make spirits at home want the law changed to allow home distilling, similar to home brewing of beer and wine, while the government argues the law is needed to prevent tax evasion.Key Facts
- Home distilling of alcohol is currently illegal in the US and can lead to up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
- The law dates back to 1868 and was created to ensure taxes were paid on alcohol production.
- Some courts have ruled the law unconstitutional, while others have upheld it.
- The Supreme Court will hear this case in early 2025 and could rule by summer 2027.
- Many home distillers, including those who started during the Prohibition era, have kept their practice secret or limited to close circles.
- The US government argues that the law is necessary to stop illegal production and tax avoidance.
- The hobby distillers' group and their lawyers argue the law is outdated and infringes on a traditional American pastime.
- Famous historical figures like George Washington legally distilled spirits at home.
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