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

Image of DIY DISTILLING What is a ccvm still column

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{…}

The Best Carbon Filter For Distilling (+How To Use Them)

Image of DIY DISTILLING The best carbon filters for moonshine

Whether or not to filter homemade spirits is a polarising topic. Some are adamant you have to, and others will tell you ‘it’s all a hoax‘. Even commercial spirits will advertise that they are “triple filtered” to bolster rapport.  But what’s the truth? Carbon filtering is worth it if you want to smoothen a rough{…}

How To Filter Alcohol (Is Carbon Filtering Worth It?)

Image of DIY DISTILLING How to filter alcohol is carbon filtering worth it

Filtering of homemade spirits is about as polarising as politics. Some are adamant you have to, and others will tell you ‘it’s all a hoax‘. Even commercial spirits will advertise that they are “triple filtered” to bolster rapport.  So should you filter alcohol? Is it an essential step to producing a smooth drink or does{…}

How To Make Cuts When Distilling (Distilling Cuts Chart)

Image of DIY DISTILLING How to make cuts when distilling

Making cuts as a beginner can be quite intimidating.  With the potential of collecting methanol in your jars, it can be frustrating to try to understand when to make cuts, considering every home distiller has its own technique for making cuts. To make cuts, it’s best to use labeled collecting jars and blend afterward. Use{…}

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

Image of DIY DISTILLING What is a cooling management still

A cooling management still is 1 of 3 different methods for the control of reflux within a distillation column. These include cooling management (CM), liquid management (LM), and vapor management (VM). In this article, we’re going to explain how they work and if they are the best topology for your distilling needs. What is a cooling management still? A cooling{…}

Vevor Alcohol Still Review (Which Model Is Best)

Image of DIY DISTILLING Vevor moonshine still reviewed and compared

Vevor is a brand of small alcohol stills that’s popular on Aliexpress and Amazon. They have about 16 different units in their range, each with slightly different functions, capacities or hardware. They also sell them in a variety of different sizes and with different accessories The purpose of this article is to unpack all this{…}

The Best Amylase For Brewing And Distilling (+ How To Use It)

Image of DIY DISTILLING The best amylase enzymes for brewing and distilling

The type of amylase used varies depending on the purpose they’re supposed to serve. While some grains, like malted barley, tend to have enough enzymatic power to convert their own starch and that of adjuncts to fermentable sugars, some grains you use only have starches suited to add flavor to the fermented drink.  When you{…}

What Is Pectic Enzyme (Pectinase) And Why You Need It!

Image of DIY DISTILLING What is pectic enzyme

There are instances where you would employ the use of pectic enzymes, and one of those is when you’re distilling or brewing fruit-based spirits. Though some home brewers are on the fence about whether or not to use it – citing that a hazy look is nothing to concern yourself about, knowing you can achieve{…}

Why Is My Alcohol Freezing? (Check This!)

Image of DIY DISTILLING how to stop alcohol freezing

You’ve probably heard of freezing alcohol and want to find out why that happens. Or, you’ve just had this phenomenon happen to you and want to find out why your alcohol froze.  Alcohol freezer due to the low alcohol content (ABV) of your drink, and the temperature of your freezer. Alcohol is made of ethanol{…}

How To Fix A Low Proof Distillate (Beginner Mistakes)

One common question I get in the Facebook group and our Ask an Expert service{...}

Vevor Air Still Review (The Easiest Way To Distill Alcohol At Home?)

The Vevor 4L water distiller is a great option for beginner home distillers because of{...}

8 Vevor Replacement Parts and Upgrades (Master Distiller Advises)

When I started my journey into distilling I bought a Vevor pot still.. well.. because{...}

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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{...}

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