Author Archives: Tristan

The Best Arancello Recipe (Incredible Orange Limoncello!)

Image of diy distilling the best arancello recipe we tested 3 variation of making orange limoncello

Editors Note: In this recipe, I tested what %ABV alcohol makes the best arancello so you’ll see 3 different variations. In previous recipes, I tested the best way to process the fruit, and the perfect amount of sugar to use. If you read all three of these, you’ll get a pretty good idea of what{…}

Does Moonshine Freeze? (Use This Rule Of Thumb)

Image of diy distilling does moonshine freeze we investigate

Sipping on chilled moonshine is pleasant every once in a while, especially on hot summer days. But, I’ve noticed that regardless of how long l let the spirit sit in the freezer, it never solidifies. It doesn’t even become slushy. After a bit of research, I uncovered the reasons behind this phenomenon, which I’ll share{…}

The Best Distillation Column Packing Material (For Reflux)

Image of diy distilling the best distillation column packing material

Packing material creates a large surface area for the vapor and liquid to interact. The more interaction, the more reflux, and the more reflux, the higher the ABV and purity. But what is the best packing for a distillation column? Common choices for most home distillers are:  This begs the question: how do you choose{…}

How To Clarify Your Moonshine Wash (Distiller’s Guide)

Image of diy distilling how to clarify wash for distilling moonshine wash

Clarifying or clearing a wash is a controversial topic amongst home-distillers. Some skip the step altogether and add anti-foaming agents to mitigate any problems that come with distilling solids. While others take the extra time to ensure everything going into the boiler is as clean as possible. There’s no right or wrong. But I’ve always{…}

How Much Alcohol Will My Still Produce?(Explained!)

Image of diy distilling how much alcohol will my still produce

Knowing the potential yield of your still can help you plan your distilling day more effectively. Generally, you can expect to obtain 20% alcohol of your still’s capacity. This is just a rough estimate and can vary based on several factors, like wash, fermentation, and distillation efficiency. In this post, I’ll discuss aspects that influence{…}

Our 6 Best Fruit Moonshine Recipes (Try These)

Image of diy distilling the best fruit moonshine recipes tested

If you’re looking to add more fruit moonshine to your home bar, I’ve got a bunch of tasty recipes you can try. From apple and peach to strawberry and banana, I’m certain you’ll find one that will satisfy your preferences. What Is Fruit Moonshine?  Fruit moonshine is an alcohol made by fermenting and distilling fruits.{…}

The Best Condenser For Distilling (Shotgun, Liebig, Cold Finger, And More!)

Image of diy distilling the best condenser for distilling

There are various condensers for distilling, each with its set of advantages and drawbacks. While it’s safe to say the best choice depends on personal preference–production rate, reflux needs–you’d still have to understand how the design and placement of the still affect condensation, which can be frustrating for the novice distiller. The best condenser for{…}

Our Complete Guide To Reflux Stills (Start Here)

Image of diy distilling a complete guide to reflux still and reflux distiling

Reflux stills are excellent tools for producing high ABV (proof) alcohol with exceptional purity. A reflux still works by having a tall column containing either bubble plates or special packing material. There is also a reflux condensor or dephlegmator returning vapor back down the column which causes multiple distillations instead of just one in 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{...}