Category Archives: Distilling 101

Why Is My Moonshine Low Proof (13 Reasons Why)

Image of DIY DISTILLING Why is my moonshine low proof how to fix low abv distillate

This article is written for anyone trying to distill at home, but aren’t getting the ABV (or proof) they are expecting. I’ve been there before (many times) and understand just how frustrating it is. We’ve broken it up into two main sections; pot stilling and reflux stilling as there are different factors at play for{…}

The Best Air Still In 2023 (Still Spirits Vs Vevor)

Image of DIY DISTILLING The best Air Still Still Spririts Air Still Vs Vevor

Finding the best air still to meet your needs can be a challenge, especially as a beginner. Between different brands, models, and features, choosing a practical one that’ll carry you for most of your home brewing years can be overwhelming.  But I’ll guide you through the process by comparing two popular air stills–Still Spirits and{…}

The 5 Best Online Distilling Courses (In 2023)

Image of DIY DISTILLING the best online course for moonshine online distilling courses

Let’s face it, mastering the art of distilling takes time and expertise. And despite being aware of the importance of networking to enhance your competence, you sometimes don’t have the time for on-site learning. While our website has an abundance of free information, it’s hard to know where to start That’s where online distilling courses{…}

Banana Moonshine Recipe (How To Make Easy Banana Brandy At Home)

Image of DIY DISTILLING How to make banana moonshine

Bananas are versatile fruits you can enjoy in various ways. But have you ever considered turning them into delicious and potent liquor? Banana moonshine, also known as banana brandy, is an exciting recipe you can try. It uses minimal ingredients and is simple to make, making it an excellent choice for beginner moonshiners.  This batch{…}

Vevor Still Instructions (A Step-By-Step Guide)

Image of DIY DISTILLING Vevor still instructions how to use a vevor alcohol distiller

The Vevor still is a fantastic entry-level kit that produces high-quality spirits, making it perfect for novices and those on a budget.  To use:  The still comes in different models, with each requiring a slightly different setup and operation. Carry on reading to get started with yours.  Vevor Still Instructions: A Basic Overview The Vevor{…}

Yellow Label Angel Yeast (A Distiller’s Guide To Angel Leaven)

Image of DIY DISTILLING what is yellow label angel yeast and how to use it

Finding a suitable yeast can be a daunting task, as it can make or break a spirit’s flavor profile.  That’s where yellow label Angel yeast comes in.  This unique blend of fungi and enzymes is a popular choice amongst distillers because it has high alcohol tolerance and can produce a smooth spirit that allows other{…}

What Are Low Wines (Distilling Explained)

Image of DIY DISTILLING what are low wines

As a beginner home distiller, you might have come across the term low wines.  It’s one of those terms advanced home distillers often throw around and skimp over, making it difficult for newbies to grasp some basics of the craft.  Low wines are the result of the first distillation. They are produced from a fermented{…}

A Complete Guide To Distillation Temperatures (Explained!)

Image of DIY DISTILLING What is the best temperature for distilling

If you’re anything like me, the further you get into the distilling hobby, the more you whish you had a degree in chemical engineering.. When people start talking ‘Azeotropes’, ‘temperature gradients’, and ‘equilibirum points’.. its clear that temperature plays a crucial role in the distilling process – but what does this all mean!? In this{…}

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{…}

Distillation Column Flooding (How To Prevent It)

Image of DIY DISTILLING Why is my distillation column flooding

Flooding is frustration – throwing your still out of equilibrium and often ruining your product.. But, the good news is that you can fix it mid-distillation or prevent it from happening in the future. Flooding still is often a result of a higher than normal reflux rate. It could also mean there’s a high feed{…}

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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