Author Archives: Emma

The 7 Best Old Tom Gin Brands (In 2023)

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If you’re a gin enthusiast, you’re probably no stranger to various styles available today. One style that’s regained popularity over the years is Old Tom. It’s revered for its sweet yet complex taste and viscosity. In this post, I’ll share 7 brands worth including in your home bar. Let’s dive in! TLDR; Our Favorite Old{…}

Our 6 Best Gin For A Tom Collins Cocktail (Must Try!)

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The Tom Collins is a classic that has stood the test of time. Since its debut in The Bartender’s Guide by Jerry Thomas, it’s become a signature drink for bartenders and home bartenders alike. It’s vibrant, fuzzy, and refreshing, making it a perfect drink for a hot summer’s day.  The best gins for the cocktail{…}

The 12 Best Vodkas For A Moscow Mule Cocktail 

Image of diy distilling the best vodkas for making a moscow mule cocktail

Few drinks embody the perfect balance of refreshment, zing, and sophistication quite like the Moscow Mule. What truly sets this classic cocktail apart is the choice of vodka. The right vodka can elevate the lime and ginger beer flavors, add a subtle complexity, and contribute to the smoothness, making the drink so enjoyable. In this{…}

Our 6 Best Gins For A French 75 Cocktail (Must Try!)

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Similar to the smoothness and precision of the classic French 75mm field gun, a French 75 cocktail packs a punch! It’s a refreshing drink that combines the zing of gin with the brightness of citrus and the effervescence of champagne. The best gins for a French 75 juniper and citrus forward to compliment the lemon{…}

Double Pitching Yeast (And Co-Pitching Explained)

Double pitching and co-pitching are two different techniques to alter the fermentation process of your beer, wine, or spirit wash. Double pitching involves adding more of the same yeast, while co-pitching is where two different yeast are mixed together to get a particular flavor, aroma, or fermentation characteristic. Both are somewhat controversial topics in the{…}

Fat Washed Gin (Try This Recipe!)

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There are several creative ways to flavor your gin. From maceration and infusions to compound gin. But, if you harbor a desire for flavor beyond sweet and floral, then fat-washed gin might interest you.  Fat washing is the process of infusing a fatty substance like sesame or melted coconut oil into a spirit of your{…}

What Is Backset Distilling (Explained)

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Backset, as with other terms experienced home distillers throw around, can be a confusing concept for new distillers. But, it’s quite straightforward. Backset distilling is the process of adding liquid leftover (backset) from the previous distillation to a fresh wash. The liquid is acidic, so it lowers the pH of your wash. Bacteria thrive in{…}

What Is A CCVM Still? (And How Do They Work?)

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There are many different reflux still topologies, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. One of the designs that has gained popularity is the condenser-controlled vapor management still (CCVM).  A CCVM is a type of still where the distiller controls the liquid entering collecting jars by using a copper coil inserted on top of a{…}

How to Make Pitorro At Home (Step-by-Step Guide)

Pitorro is a popular Puerto Rican drink, especially during special occasions. It follows the same{...}

The Best Still For Making Whiskey (In 2024)

With so many whiskey-making stills on the market, choosing one that will cater to your{...}

The Best Still For Making Vodka (In 2024)

I make a lot of gin, and to make gin you need vodka first. Over{...}

The Best Thermometer For Distilling (In 2024)

One aspect that allows us to create high-quality spirits hinges on having a reliable and{...}

How To Cut Heads and Tails When Making Gin

One question we get asked a lot in the Facebook group and our Ask an{...}

A Distillers’ Guide To Excise Duty (Excise Tax Considerations)

From the Author: This article has been written as a necessity given the variety of{...}