Breaking Down the Basics of Distillation: A Beginner's Guide to Crafting Spirits
Are you a budding entrepreneur looking to start your own craft spirits business? Or perhaps you’re just curious about the science behind distillation. Whatever your reason may be, this beginner’s guide to distillation will give you the basics you need to know.
What is Distillation?
Distillation is the process of separating two or more substances based on their differences in boiling points. In the context of crafting spirits, it’s how the alcohol is extracted from the fermented mash. When heat is applied to the fermented mash, the alcohol evaporates and is condensed into a liquid, while the non-alcohol substances are left behind.
The Still
The still is the apparatus used to distill the fermented mash. There are two main types of stills: pot stills and column stills. Pot stills are used to distill small batches of spirits, while column stills are used for larger batches.
The Mash
Before distillation can take place, a mash must be created. The mash consists of the ingredients used to make the spirits, such as grains or fruits. The mash is fermented using yeast to convert the sugars into alcohol.
The Heads, Hearts, and Tails
When the distillation process begins, the alcohol is separated into three parts: the heads, hearts, and tails. The heads contain volatile compounds that can cause headaches and are discarded. The hearts are the desired portion of the distillation, containing the majority of the alcohol. The tails contain more impurities and are also discarded.
Aging and Bottling
After the distillation process is complete, the spirits are usually aged in barrels to develop their flavor profile. Once aged, the spirits can then be bottled and sold.
Conclusion
Distillation is a complex process, but understanding the basics can help you appreciate the artistry that goes into crafting spirits. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, knowing the science behind distillation can enhance your appreciation for the spirits you enjoy.