The Role of Oranges in Florida’s Prohibition-Era Moonshine – How orange juice and peels were used to mask the harsh taste of homemade alcohol

During the Prohibition era (1920-1933), the production and distribution of alcohol were banned in the United States. However, this didn’t stop many Floridians, particularly in rural and coastal areas, from continuing to make homemade alcohol, commonly known as moonshine. Given Florida's abundance of citrus, particularly oranges, locals found creative ways to mask the harsh, bitter taste of their homemade alcohol by using orange juice and peels. This not only improved the flavor but also made the alcohol more palatable to those seeking a hidden escape during these dry years.

Citrus as a Flavoring Agent

Homemade alcohol often had a harsh, pungent taste due to crude distillation processes, and it was frequently high in methanol, which made it unsafe to consume. To make moonshine more drinkable, Florida moonshiners turned to the plentiful citrus available in the state. The juice and zest of Florida oranges, with their natural sweetness and tang, were used to mask the bitter notes of poorly distilled spirits.

Orange juice helped mellow the sharp flavors, while the orange peel provided aromatic oils that gave the concoctions a more pleasing scent and taste. Some moonshiners even used oranges to create "orange wine," which was essentially a fermented orange juice mixed with homemade spirits. This mixture, often diluted with water, would take on a smoother, fruitier flavor that helped it go down easier.

The Creation of "Florida-Style Moonshine"

In some cases, moonshiners would use the whole orange, including the peel, to further improve the flavor of their illicit spirits. The rinds, rich in citrus oils, contributed to the smoothness of the drink, balancing out the strong alcohol content. This practice led to the rise of what was informally known as "Florida-style moonshine." It was often sold in homemade bottles, some even featuring the distinct scent of orange blossoms.

Oranges as a Symbol of the Florida Spirit

During Prohibition, the use of Florida oranges in moonshine production was symbolic of the state’s ingenuity and resourcefulness. Florida's citrus industry, which was already a significant part of its economy, continued to thrive even in the face of the national alcohol ban. The orange played a vital role not only in the state's agriculture but also in its underground culture during this era.

Today, the connection between Florida oranges and moonshine remains a fascinating part of the state’s history, showcasing how locals made the most of their resources during a difficult time.

Discover more about Florida's rich citrus heritage by visiting FloridaOrange.com.

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