About

The Moonshine Still Project, headed by Dave Smith, a former Automotive Engineer, is an endeavor born out of passion, expertise, and a commitment to making the art of distilling more accessible. Dave, having nurtured a fascination with distilling from his childhood years in the 1970s, brings a unique blend of technical prowess, craftsmanship, and dedication to this venture.

Dave's journey began in 2008 when he built his first moonshine still, a simple pot still that successfully sparked an unshakeable obsession with the art of distilling. Drawing upon his extensive experience in Automotive Engineering and tireless research, he later assembled his first plated reflux still. Although not perfect, it could produce spirit at over 85% ABV at a rate of 2.6 Quarts (2.5 Litres) per hour. Never one to settle for second best, Dave continued refining the design until he achieved his ambitious goal of creating a still capable of producing 95% ABV spirit or better.

Dave's vision goes beyond personal achievement. Recognizing the need for clear, accurate, and trustworthy information in the often-confusing world of home distilling, he dedicated himself to empower others with the ability to build their own stills. His mission: to assist every home distiller in crafting a distilling system that not only meets their needs but also embodies their commitment and passion.

Dave's innovative approach to still design makes it possible for anyone to construct their own moonshine still using basic hand tools and readily available materials, at a fraction of the cost of commercial distillation equipment. His step-by-step training removes unnecessary hurdles and brings a hands-on, practical approach to the distilling community.

Over the years, Dave has lent his expertise and guidance to countless home distilling enthusiasts, helping them achieve their dreams of owning a high-quality moonshine still. He continues to invest countless hours into perfecting various still building techniques, discarding what doesn’t work, and fine-tuning the ones that do, thereby enabling others to concentrate on their passion for distilling.

Dave is also licensed by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) to produce commercial distilling equipment from his premises in Beaconsfield, Australia. His prowess isn't limited to DIY endeavors but extends to creating professional distilling systems for upcoming and established distilleries. His portfolio includes notable names such as Wild Dog Winery, Tiny Bear Distillery, and a number of smaller, yet ambitious start-up distilleries.

Each piece he creates is not just a functional piece of distilling equipment; it's a work of art. They embody the perfect fusion of Dave's skill, passion, and craftsmanship. From pilot systems for start-up distilleries to large-scale multipurpose commercial systems, each distilling system is tailored to meet specific needs and exhibits a unique charm of its own.

Choosing to engage with Dave and the Moonshine Still Project means choosing a partner who understands your struggles, your passion, and your dreams. With over 30 years of experience in various engineering fields, he offers authenticity, tested expertise, and a staunch commitment to ensuring your success in your distilling journey.

From providing a solid foundation for beginners to advanced insights for seasoned distillers, Dave's teachings cater to all levels. His step-by-step guides have been tested and proven in the real world, transforming potential roadblocks into stepping stones on your journey to creating your own distillation system.

Welcome to the Moonshine Still Project, where dreams distill into reality, and passion meets craftsmanship. We are thrilled to have you join Dave on this journey.