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What is Distillation and How is Liquor Made?

 
Written by Peoples Bourbon Review Staff |
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Distillation is a process that entails the changeover of a liquid into vapor which is later processing it back to liquid form. Most industries are bound to use this process on a much larger scale to produce whiskey. Typically, the entire process needs a still whereby the liquid is warmed up a condenser to cool down the vapor, and a receiver aimed at collecting the distillate.

The distillation process
The distillation process.

What is a Distillery?

A distillery is an establishment where the distilling of liquors is executed. However, many people mystify this term with a typical brewery meant to brew beer. A distillery often crafts hard alcohol such as vodka, gin, whiskey, rum, and the rest. All these distilled spirits share the same method of making as that of beer. It all starts by blending essential ingredients like yeast, grains, and water.

After the whole process is done, alcohol moves out first, given that it has a lower boiling point than water. After that, it is condensed by cooling down the vapor and compiling the emerging liquid, which is alcohol.

What is the history of distillation?

Distillation remains one of the earliest and most used separation methods. It was used back in 3500 BC in Egypt, whereby those who crafted perfumes found it as a method of separating scented oils of both plants and flowers. This process is based on the perception that various substances can turn to vapor at diverse temperatures. This was discovered by some of the ancient Greeks, who also found out that when you boil wine in an open pot, the alcohol vapor will be the first to exit.

During that time, distilling had not yet been approved for enjoyment drinks but was still being practiced in various medical schools to make herbal drugs. As time evolved, commercial distilling became a popular business, although it was confronted with licensing issues. As a result, the consumption of distilled spirits slowly lost its union divine symbolism. It later came to be a serious health issue as the abuse of spirit was now uncontrolled. However, the liking for fine spirits has prevailed as a testament to their old origin.

Currently, the process of distillation has not endured multiple changes. The old methods are still in place and are being considered more practical than the current methods.

Author: Peoples Bourbon Review Staff
The People's Bourbon Review - The ultimate Bourbon reviews and tasting notes by enthusiasts and the people.

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Card image cap Mark Pringle - interesting

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