Corn is the basis for the production of whiskey and moonshine. It has a starch content necessary for fermentation, and when combined with a decent enzyme, it can create the desired ABV. But not all corn is created equal. Some varieties, like corn flour, have a low starch content and are only suited to making{…}
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{…}
There are various ways to purify water. From distilling, deionizing, and reverse osmosis. Most of these methods treat the water you use at home. Distilling water is a common technique used commercially and it can be replicated at home. Distilled water is water that’s steamed, condensed, and collected in sterile jars. This ensures an excellent level{…}
Sugar washes are one of the first recipes that the beginner distiller will learn. They’re cheap, easy, and produce a high-ABV wash ready for distilling. If you’re making vodka or gin, most people will start with a sugar wash. A sugar wash comprises sugar, water, yeast, and nutrients. It makes a decent neutral spirit that{…}
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{…}
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{…}
With more than 1500 varieties of yeast available to choose from, knowing the right type to use when making brandy, schnapps or any other fruit spirit can be confusing. 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,{…}
Methylated spirits is a very common product used for general purposes around the home, office, and workplace. It’s predominantly used for cleaning as it’s almost 100% alcohol which is a powerful solvent. It’s known to be an eco-friendly product, which is why people favor it more than other cleaning chemicals. We all know it as{…}
Brewers’ and distillers’ yeast play a key role in turning the sugars found in fruit, vegetables, and grain into alcohol. But, like everything in science (and nature), it has an expiration date. So, if you want to know how long brewers’ yeast lasts, carry on reading to find out! Here a rough guide to shelf{…}
Turbo yeast has made fermenting a high-ABV wash fast and easy. It works by using high alcohol tolerant strains of yeast and a concoction of potent yeast nutrients. These sachets can be incredibly efficient, but also lead to producing some nasty flavors and overall a poor quality product. In this article, we’ll explain how to{…}
