Virginia – Whether you love it or hate it, Discovery Channel’s Moonshiners has become a staple of reality television, offering a glimpse into the world of backwoods distilling. And no figure has embodied that journey better than Tim Smith, a former outlaw moonshiner turned legal distillery owner and fan favorite.
But was his house really raided? Is he still skirting the law? And what’s the real story behind his moonshine operation today? The answers reveal a journey of personal loss, business ambition, and an unwavering commitment to tradition.
A Legacy Distilled
Tim Smith was introduced to moonshine before he could even ride a bike. By age six, he was helping his father produce and sell liquor deep in the Virginia woods — not to drink it, but to understand the family’s craft. “I didn’t see it as alcohol,” Tim has said. “It was medicine, part of life.”
This family tradition would define him — even after tragedy struck. The death of his father in a car accident pushed Tim to reevaluate his future. No longer wanting to run from the law, he decided to go legal.
Brushes with the Law
Over the years, Tim’s illegal operation attracted attention. Police visited his home in search of evidence, but he was never arrested. As he later shared, he had technically retired from illegal distilling by the time officers came knocking.
Still, the legacy of law enforcement lingering over the show has stirred controversy. In 2012, Moonshiners’ producers insisted the events shown were real. Yet Virginia authorities countered that no actual illegal alcohol was being made on camera — at least, not that they could prove.
Tim has acknowledged how elusive proof must be for any moonshiner to be jailed. That legal gray area — combined with the skill of real-life distillers in avoiding detection — has made the show both compelling and controversial.
Going Legal: Climax Spirits Is Born
By 2013, with Moonshiners bringing in money and attention, Tim realized he finally had the resources to go legit. He launched Climax Spirits, named after his hometown in Climax, Virginia. The product line includes classic moonshine, whiskey, and flavored variations like cinnamon-spiced “Fire No. 32,” a nod to Tim’s days as a volunteer firefighter.
His newest addition, a honey raspberry whiskey introduced in September 2024, is aimed at a younger, trendier market. He’s also developed a Southern Reserve line, producing bourbon, rye, and traditional whiskey.
TV Star & Brand Builder
Far from retreating from the spotlight, Tim has become one of the most visible faces in Moonshiners’ lineup. He’s appeared in every season — including the 13th, which aired in early 2024 — and regularly features in spinoffs like American Spirit, Master Distiller, and Master Distiller: Tournament of Champions.
On social media, his following continues to grow, with nearly 40,000 fans tracking his latest ventures, stories, and spirits.
From Outlaw to Icon
Today, Tim Smith isn’t hiding in the woods or dodging revenuers. He’s running a legal distilling empire rooted in family tradition and Southern grit.
For fans, he represents the best of Moonshiners: authentic, passionate, and still true to his roots — whether or not the cameras are rolling.
IN BRIEF:
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Name: Tim Smith
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From: Climax, Virginia
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Occupation: Former outlaw moonshiner, now legal distillery owner
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Distillery: Climax Spirits (Est. 2013)
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Popular Products: Classic Moonshine, Fire No. 32, Southern Reserve, Honey Raspberry Whiskey
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TV Appearances: Moonshiners (All seasons), Master Distiller, American Spirit
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Instagram Followers: ~40,000
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Legal Trouble: None currently; brushes with law occurred early in the show’s run
“It’s not about alcohol. It’s about legacy — and mine started long before the cameras showed up.” – Tim Smith
