Category Archives: Tools and Equipment

The Best Distillation Column Packing Material (For Reflux)

Image of diy distilling the best distillation column packing material explained

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{…}

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

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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{…}

Air Still Pro Review (What’s The Difference)

Image of diy distilling air still pro review what is the difference between air still and air still pro

The Air Still Pro by Still Spirits is a versatile and convenient option for both novice and experienced distillers. The key difference between the original Air Still and the Air Still Pro is a reflux mode to make high-proof vodka or neutral spirit. It also has automatic foreshots collection where the first 30ml is collected{…}

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

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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{…}

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{…}

STC-1000 Controller (Complete Setup Guide)

Image of diy distilling a complete guide to the stc 1000 controller

Home brewing requires attention to detail in every step to achieve the desired flavor and quality of the final product. One of the most critical aspects is temperature control.  Proper temperature control ensures your fermenter maintains the ideal fermentation conditions.  One way to encourage such an environment is to use the STC-1000 controller.  To set{…}

Grainfather Brewing System – Review (All Models Compared)

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Home brewers are always bombarded with the next, best brewing unit.  Just when you think you’ve found your go-to brewing system, you’re presented with one that promises you all the features and functions to ease your load during brew day, without compromising quality.  One of those systems is the Grainfather.  Grainfather is an all-in-one brewing{…}

What Is A Liquid Management 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 due to its simplicity is the Liquid Management Still or LM still. A liquid management still controls the amount of liquid being drawn off the still. It uses internal plates below the dephlegmator/column{…}

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

Image of diy distilling what is a ccvm still column explained

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{…}