William Bernard “Big Six” Henderson was a federal agent working in the South-Central Kentucky region during the 1950’s and 60’s who possessed a particular passion for “still busting” – 5,000 moonshine stills destroyed to his count. During his time as a “revenuer,” areas of Kentucky had become a hotbed for moonshining – the practice of producing and selling distilled spirits without the license required by the 1791 Whiskey Tax on all alcohol produced in the United States. In fact, Golden Pond in western Kentucky was known as the “Moonshine Capital of the World,” with as many as 15 stills running a day.

Big Six Henderson chased moonshiners from one end of Kentucky to the other – undoubtedly around and through the many caves and caverns dotting the region. Caves provided the natural cover and concealment necessary for uninterrupted moonshine production, while the stable temperatures and humidity promoted quick and efficient fermentation of corn. Plus, the limestone spring water found in and around most caves was perfect for producing the taste and temperament discerning moonshine customers demanded.

Onyx Cave, Lost River Cave and Mammoth Cave share a storied history of moonshiner activity – there’s even a Moonshiner’s Arch in the Red River Gorge region of Eastern Kentucky! Big Six Henderson was a respected lawman – even amongst those he ultimately apprehended and sent to jail. He became so famous that moonshiners often painted “Big Six” on the sides of the barrels they illegally produced, knowing many of them would end up in his hands anyway.

In celebration and respect of the consummate revenuer, Balance Distilling offers Mammoth Cave Moonshines – all handmade in the small craft tradition of the 1950’s moonshiners of the cave region. Offered in caramel, blackberry and hot pepper flavors – plus a signature clear moonshine bottled at 90 proof – Mammoth Cave Moonshine aims to recapture a day and time in the storied history of Mammoth Cave.