Billy Kaufman

Billy Kaufman, was born and raised in Beverly Hills, California in August of 1971. He graduated from Beverly Hills High School and traveled over 3,100 miles to attend and Graduate from Colby College in Waterville, Maine majoring in Art History with a concentration in Theatre Set Design. Ironically that school’s mascot is a White Mule (that identical word is also a term used for unaged whiskey). After graduation Kaufman had a career as an Art Director creating sets for commercials and films. He moved to Tennessee in 2001, seeking a life back to nature and pursuing his passion for organic farming. Upon his arrival, he discovered Cannon County's rich moonshining heritage and connected with experienced local moonshiners, whose expertise would guide him in his new venture.

In 2009, a new state law allowed legal distilleries to open and manufacture spirits in counties that legally allowed it.  Cannon County was considered a “dry county” and had not allowed legal manufacturing since prohibition started in Tennessee in 1909, it wouldn’t be easy. After petitioning for a referendum and putting the new law up for election, Kaufman was able to change the century-old law and bring Cannon County back into the liquor-making business.  Kaufman then established Short Mountain Distillery in 2010 along with his brothers on his 400-acre farm just outside Woodbury, Tennessee. The distillery became one of the first four distilleries to open in Tennessee after prohibition ended, excluding Jack Daniel’s and George Dickel, which opened in 1938 and 1958, respectively. 

Short Mountain Distillery is located on the same property that houses the historic limestone-filtered cave spring, which once supplied water for the moonshine still of Cooper Melton that filled the speakeasies of infamous gangster Al Capone throughout Prohibition. Embracing traditional recipes passed down through generations of local families, Kaufman produces a variety of spirits, including authentic Tennessee whiskey and moonshine. Which allow his recipes to mellow a bit in the wild temperature swings of the tallest mountain in the Nashville Metropolitan area and throughout Middle Tennessee.

Kaufman’s cadre began began with Corn Shine, a pure, 100% corn grain spirit that reflects the distillery’s deep connection to the area’s moonshine roots. This traditional moonshine recipe quickly became a local favorite, a tribute to the pioneering spirit of the distillers who ran illegal stills during Prohibition. Apple Pie Shine followed soon after, a sweet, crisp moonshine that combines the flavors of baked apples, cinnamon, and sugar—a nod to the country-style recipes passed down through generations. Another hit, Prohibition Tea, captures the essence of Southern hospitality with its smooth, sweet tea flavor, add a little lemonade and you’re good to go. While Blackberry Bliss adds a fruity, tart, sweet twist, offering a burst of berry flavor balanced with a hint of moonshine’s classic kick. Better than any table wine.

Tennessee Whiskey is one of the flagship products from Short Mountain, a smooth, rich spirit made with organic grains and aged to perfection. Known for its bold, robust, yet balanced flavors, it’s a whiskey that embodies the essence of Tennessee’s distilling heritage. Billy’s Green Thumb Tennessee Whiskey is a standout example, having been one of the first whiskeys in the country to be certified 100% organic. Though the label no longer reflects this certification, the distillery continues to use organic grains, ensuring the same high-quality, eco-friendly product. Available in Bottled in Bond at 100pf, Cask Strength and Finished varieties. 

Short Mountain’s Bourbon is another signature spirit, a four-grain blend that includes a unique addition of oat malt, alongside the more traditional corn, rye, and barley. This extra touch gives the bourbon a smoother, richer flavor profile that sets it apart from other bourbons on the market. Bottled-in-bond at 100 proof, with cask strength and finished versions available, Short Mountain Bourbon offers a versatile, full-bodied drinking experience.

For those who appreciate a bold, spicy kick, Short Mountain’s Rye whiskey is a must-try. The Red Pecker Rye features a blend of chocolate malted barley and cherry-smoked malted barley, creating a unique bittersweet and complex flavor that has garnered attention among whiskey enthusiasts. Kaufman’s commitment to innovation shines through in this bold spirit, which is both a nod to tradition and a modern take on rye whiskey.

With each of these products, Billy Kaufman and Short Mountain Distillery blends his expertise, creativity, and respect for local history, creating spirits that not only honor Tennessee’s rich distilling legacy but also push the boundaries of what craft spirits can be. Whether you’re enjoying a glass of Tennessee Whiskey, Bourbon, or Rye, every sip reflects the passion and craftsmanship that define Short Mountain Distillery.

Contributed by: Erik Cremeans, Cookeville, Tennessee

with support from M. J. (Michael) Jacobs, Tennessee Whiskey Section Editor, Smyrna, Tennessee