The Lyne Arm

The head of a pot still is connected to the condensing system by a simple copper pipe called a lyne arm or lye pipe But this insignificant-looking tube can have quite an influence on the flavour and style of the spirit In its simplest form, the lyne …

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Calculating BTUs

What is a BTU and how is it measured A British thermal unit (BTU) is a measure of the heat content of fuels or energy sources It is the quantity of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of liquid water by 1 degree Fahrenheit at the temp…

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For Peat’s sake!

Peated whisky is given a smoky flavour by compounds which are released by the peat fires used to dry malted barley The Length and intensity of exposure to the peat smoke dictates the strength of this flavour as do the characteristics of the peat itse…

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How does a Reflux differ from an Alembic still?

The Reflux still differs from the Alembic in that multiple distillations occur in one single cycle The addition of a column with bubble trays between the condenser and pot allows vapor to condense and trickle back down to be distilled once again Thus…

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What is an Alembic potstill?

A traditional batch distillation unit used for the production of distillates It requires several cycles of distillation in order to refine the alcohol to the desired level It consists of a tank, (which is usually steam-heated), and an overhead-vapor …

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What exactly IS Ethanol?

Otherwise known as ethyl alcohol, “alcohol”, “grain-spirit”, or “neutral spirit”, etc A clear, colorless, flammable oxygenated hydrocarbon Chemical formula: C2H5OH It has a boiling point of 785°C in the anhydrous state However, it forms …

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What is distillate?

That portion of a liquid which is removed as a vapor and condensed during a distillation process…

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What are bubble-cap trays?

Cross flow trays usually installed in rectifying columns handling liquids free of suspended solids The bubble caps consist of circular cups inverted over small vapor pipes The vapor from the tray below passes through the vapor pipes into the caps and…

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Gervasi Vineyard

Gervasi Vineyard In less than a decade, Gervasi Vineyard has gone from one family’s dream to a destination for lovers of fine wine, craft spirits and dining experiences And now, Ohio’s Tuscan-inspired winery resort gives guests more luxurious rea…

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