Master Distiller, Donnis Todd, of Hye, TX, examines a still displayed by Artisan Still Design during the American Distilling Institute’s 10th Annual Craft Spirits Conference & Vendors Expo at the downtown Sheraton in Denver, CO April 02, 2013. (Craig F. Walker/The Denver Post via Getty Images)

Novelist William Faulkner reportedly observed that “civilization begins with distillation.”

Yet how civilized is any society that criminalizes the American-as-apple-pie hobby of home-distilling, a proud tradition carried on by our first president long predating our great nation? You may be surprised to learn that producing even a single ounce of spirited beverage at home for your own personal consumption constitutes a felony.

How can that be? It is legal to brew mediocre beer in your garage or make lousy wine.…