Moonshine Lemonade
There is a particular stretch of the Missouri River just outside Helena where the cottonwoods lean so far over the water they practically whisper to the current. You have been on the river since morning, floating lazy bends and watching osprey dive from impossible heights. The sun has shifted from forgiving to relentless, and the cooler wedged between your knees is the most important piece of equipment on the raft. This is the moment that calls for a Moonshine Lemonade.
It is not a complicated drink, and that is precisely the point. When the afternoon heat sits heavy on the water and conversation has slowed to the rhythm of the paddle, you want something bright, cold, and effortless. The tartness of fresh lemonade cuts through the warmth while the moonshine adds just enough backbone to remind you this is not just any summer day. This is a Montana summer day, and you have earned every sip of it. Squeeze the lemon, pour generously, and let the river do the rest.
Moonshine Lemonade
Ingredients
- 2 oz Montucky Moonshine
- 4 oz fresh lemonade
- 1 oz simple syrup
- Lemon wheel for garnish
- Ice
Instructions
- Fill a tall glass with ice.
- Pour 2 oz Montucky Moonshine over the ice.
- Add 4 oz fresh lemonade and 1 oz simple syrup.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel and serve immediately.
Serve It In
A classic Mason jar or a tall Collins glass. If you are on the river, a durable tumbler with a lid keeps things cold and spill-free. The wide mouth lets you catch the lemon aroma with every sip.
Complete the Moment
Pair your Moonshine Lemonade with the Montucky Moonshine Mug — a rugged enamel camp mug built for river days, tailgates, and everything in between.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time for a float trip?
Absolutely. Mix the moonshine, lemonade, and simple syrup in a sealed container and keep it on ice. Add fresh ice and the lemon garnish when you are ready to serve. It holds up well for several hours.
What if I do not have simple syrup?
Dissolve equal parts sugar and hot water, stir until clear, and let it cool. Or skip it entirely if your lemonade is already sweet enough. Taste and adjust as you go.
Can I use a different citrus instead of lemon?
Lime works beautifully for a slightly different profile. Grapefruit adds bitterness that pairs well with the moonshine. Use whatever citrus you have on hand and adjust the syrup accordingly.