Pot still distillation is suitable for the distillation of Rum, Bourbon, Whiskey, Gin, Port, Sherry, and many other spirits where the flavours in the wash are desired in the final spirit.
To distill flavourful spirits on the G70 Brewing System, you will be using the Grainfather Distilling Lid, T500 Alembic Condenser, Attachments Kit, and a few more pieces of equipment you may already have in your brew house. If not, be sure to gather all equipment and make the wash in advance.s
Remove the sight glass opposite the recirculation arm to avoid pressure build-up that may cause leaking from the top vent hole. You may skip this step if your unit does not have a sight glass opposite the recirculation arm.
Follow these steps to remove the sight glass:
Insert the thermometer probe into the hole at the top of the condenser.
Refer to diagram below.
(Wash volume in (L) * wash ABV) + (Wash volume in (L) * 0.07) = minimum volume of alcohol collection vessel
(Wash volume in (L) * wash ABV) + (Wash volume in (L) * 0.07) = minimum volume of alcohol collection vessel
Use a Parrot Head to collect the spirit in 100ml (3.4 US fl oz) increments. Keep the increments separate until the ABV of the spirit reaches 65%. You may also collect the spirit manually.
From this point forward, collect the spirit in a vessel. Periodically test the ABV until the distillate reads 40-35% ABV. Once a 40-35% ABV reading is achieved, the hearts collection step is complete.
Collect the remaining spirit in 100ml (3.4 US fl oz) increments until the ABV of the distillate reaches between 35-30% ABV. At this point, the distillation is finished.
Run water through the T500 Alembic Condenser to rinse. For a more thorough clean, you may wish to rinse the condenser with a 50:50 water to vinegar solution.
Legal Considerations
Distilling at home is legal in New Zealand. Check the laws in your country or state before you get started.