The National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement in Downtown Las Vegas, commonly known as The Mob Museum, is operating its own brewery and distillery. Dubbed The Underground for its basement location, the wing is dedicated to educating visitors about the era of Prohibition, but the moonshine and beer being produced are definitely “legal” hooch!
Overseeing the brewing and distilling operations and The Underground’s Speakeasy is director of food and beverage Clint Thoman, who, along with brewer/distiller Everett James, determines the beer styles and variations of moonshine being made. Thoman said several beer styles are brewed, but only one type of spirit: moonshine made from 100 percent yellow corn and twice distilled to increase flavor and alcohol content. Everett began as a volunteer, but soon expressed an interest in the operation. After on-the-job training, he became the resident brewer/distiller.
During a recent visit, moonshine varieties available were the signature moonshine and two infused—one with cinnamon and another named Ginger Jake with ginger, allspice, lime, jalapeño and cinnamon. Since its opening in 2018, the brewery has doubled its capacity and now can offer two beers at all times. Two beers pouring were Irish red and porter ales; beer styles previously offered have included cream ale, IPA, hefeweizen and dunkelweiss (all brews that were made during Prohibition). Both the moonshine and beer can be imbibed in the Speakeasy, steps from the brewing and distilling apparatus. Those wanting some to enjoy at home can purchase bottles of moonshine and growlers of beer at the museum gift shop (both can be ordered online, but must be picked up in person). Pints of the beer go for $8 and growlers are $19.95 or $10 for refills; and moonshine pours are $6.95-$7.95 for 50 ml, $15.95-$18.95 for 375 ml and $20.95-$24.95 for 750 ml; a variety pack of three 50 ml bottles is $25.
Complimentary entrance to The Underground is granted at the secret side entrance to visitors who know the correct password, which is published daily on Instagram Stories @MobMuseum_Underground. For tours you’ll need a ticket to the Museum and an add-on ticket. Hours are Sunday-Thursday, noon-9 p.m., and Friday-Saturday, noon-10 p.m. and tours are offered hourly from 11:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. (21+) For tickets and more info visit themobmuseum.org.
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