Author Archives: Tristan

Our Complete Turbo 500 Still Review (Your Questions Answered!)

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The T500 Turbo Still (by Still Sprits) has become the go-to choice for novice distillers around the world, looking to better their craft – and for obvious reasons too. This still has all the features of a larger (and more expensive) distillation column, packing into a counter-top size and at an affordable price. However, before{…}

Moonshine Explained: What is Moonshine and How to Make It

Image of diy distilling what is moonshine and how to make it

The term ‘moonshine” is not well understood and often misused when referring to homemade alcohol, or bad-quality alcohol. Some people call any homemade spirit ‘moonshine’ Others, refer to white whiskey as moonshine. Is it moonshine if it’s bad? Is it moonshine if it’s made illegally?? In this article, we’re going to look into exactly what{…}

Rhum Agricole vs Cachaca vs Rum (Differences Explained)

Image of diy distilling the differenece between rum rhum agricole and cachaca

You may have come across the word Rhum, or Agricole. Rum, rhum agricole, and cachaca are three spirits that are often confused with each other. All rum is produced from sugar, which is why it sometimes becomes difficult to differentiate between a few popular varieties and classifications of rum. However, slight variations in the process{…}

5 Best Yeasts for Making and Distilling Rum (Best Rum Yeast Explained!)

Image of diy distilling the best yeast for making rum and rhum agricole

With more than 1500 varieties of yeast available to choose from, knowing the right type to use when making rum can be baffling. And, because any type of yeast can be used, there is no wrong option. It all depends on your taste, preference, and budget. However, some yeast types perform better than others. Rum{…}

The Best Yeast For Distilling Tequila and Mezcal (Explained!)

Image of diy distilling the best yeast for making tequila and mezcal

With more than 1500 varieties of yeast available to choose from, knowing the right type to choose when making tequila can be baffling. And, because any type of yeast can be used, there is the wrong option. It all depends on your taste, preference, and budget. However, some yeast types perform better than others. Agave{…}

The Best Whiskey Yeast (Our 5 Top Picks For Distilling Whiskey)

Image of diy distilling the best yeast for making whiskey and whisky

With more than 1500 varieties of yeast available to choose from, knowing the right type to use when making whiskey can be baffling. And because any type of yeast *can* be used, there is no bad or good option. It all depends on your taste, preference, and budget. However, some yeast types perform better than{…}

The Best Yeast For Distilling Vodka And Neutral Spirits? (Explained!)

Image of diy distilling the best yeast for making vodka and neutral spirits

With more than 1500 varieties of yeast available to choose from, knowing the right type to use in distilling vodka can be baffling. And, because any type of yeast can be used, there is no bad or good option. It all depends on your taste, preference, and budget. However, some yeast types perform better than{…}

Alcoholmeter vs Hydrometer (What’s The Difference And How Do They Work?)

Image of diy distilling alcoholmeter vs hydrometer vs proofing hydrometer what is the difference and how do they work 1

When you’re getting into brewing and distilling there’s a log of jargon, and a lot of science to get your head around. Don’t worry. It’s not too scary. And we’re here to help! In simple terms, an alcoholmeter and a hydrometer are tools that look almost identical and operate using the same principles of physics.{…}

How Long Does Gin Last? (And How To Tell If It’s Gone Bad)

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As a general rule, a bottle of gin can last forever. The flavors will be best preserved if you keep the bottle sealed in a cool place and out of direct sunlight. Once opened, the flavors will change more rapidly due to oxidization, but the gin will still be safe to drink. If possible, keep{…}

How To Make Rum (A Distiller’s Guide To Making Rum At Home)

Image of diy distilling a complete guide to making rum

Rum plays a part in the culture of many areas such as the West Indies. It also has famous associations with the Royal Navy and piracy. It has even played a role in economic exchange, using to fund enterprises such as organized crime and even military insurgencies. Rum has a rich history and story. Rum{…}

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{...}