Making Everclear, the popular grain alcohol, requires the right ingredients and equipment. Begin by gathering a 20 gallon, food-grade container and covering it with enough insulation to keep its contents at a suitable temperature.
Using a plastic siphon hose, pour one gallon of grain neutral spirits into the container, along with one quart each of white sugar and water. For flavoring, add one half ounce of citric acid and one ounce of licorice root.
Leave the container for one week, shaking or stirring its contents to ensure the sugar and citric acid are evenly distributed throughout.
At the end of the week, test the solution with a hydrometer. The ideal water-sugar ratio should be at 0.9-1.2, so if the ratio is higher or lower than this, add more sugar or water accordingly. Keep in mind that if a lower ratio is needed, you should check the container every 2-3 days and stir the mixture to speed up the dissolving process.
Once the desired water-sugar ratio is achieved, filter the mixture twice with a paper towel.
Now, place the container in a suitable area and install a still head. Connect the copper tube to the still head, the other end of it should be connected to the container with a clip. Heat the still head with a kitchen range, increasing the temperature gradually and avoiding excessive heat.
Continue increasing the temperature to reach the desired final proof, usually 190 proof. After the solution begins to boil, turn down the heat and collect the vapor into a container that has been cleaned with hot water.
The final step is to wait for the vapor to cool and settle, then strain it using a non-synthetic filter. Bottle the filtered liquid and store it properly for consumption. With the above instructions, you should now be able to make Everclear.
How do you make high proof vodka?
Making high proof vodka is relatively simple. First, you should begin with a base vodka like a neutral grain spirit or potato-based vodka. It is then important to dilute the base vodka by distilling it in a fractional still.
This removes unwanted ingredients, such as congeners (a substance produced during fermentation), and removes excess sugar from the vodka. After the distillation process, you can then return the vodka to the desired alcohol content.
The easiest way to do this is by mixing a 50/50 solution of water and the base vodka. This will significantly raise the alcohol content in the vodka and result in a high proof vodka. You can further raise the alcohol content by chill-filtering the vodka, which forces out the impurities, and then adding alcohol back in to the mixture.
After chill-filtering, adjust the ABV content for the desired proof using a measuring instrument such as an alcohol meter. Once you’ve reached the desired level of alcohol, you can them bottle the vodka.
Can you distill vodka to make it stronger?
Yes, it is possible to increase the strength of vodka by distilling it. Distillation is a process that involves separating the components of a liquid mixture using schemes of heating and cooling. When it comes to vodka, distillation typically involves heating the fermented solution and condensing the alcohol vapors, leaving behind the impurities that are present in the liquid.
Depending on the specific distillation process used, it is possible to produce a variety of vodka strengths, ranging from 80 to 95 proof or higher. However, it is important to note that distillation of vodka is a delicate process that requires precise control in order to generate the desired end results.
Furthermore, it should not be attempted without the necessary knowledge, resources, and equipment.
What happens if you distill vodka?
Distilling vodka involves boiling off the alcohol from the liquid, then condensing the vapor and collecting it. The process of distilling the vodka will increase the alcohol content, as the lower-boiling components of the mixture (like water, flavoring agents, and congeners) will be boiled away.
This allows the distilled vodka to have higher alcohol content than the original vodka.
Through distilling, vodka can also be purified and become clearer in color. Distillation removes higher boiling substances such as esters, aldehydes, and organic acids, which give vodka flavor but can also contribute to a cloudy colour.
On average, the distilled vodka will have around 40-50% alcohol by volume (ABV). After distillation, distilled vodka often goes through filtration to further clarify it. This can include passing the vodka through charcoal, which absorbs impurities.
Is Smirnoff vodka made from potatoes?
No, Smirnoff vodka is not made from potatoes. It is made from grain, usually rye or wheat, that is processed, distilled, filtered, and blended with water. The brand was founded in Moscow in 1864 by Piotr Arseneevich Smirnov – the founder of the famous brand that we now know as Smirnoff.
Smirnoff has been a leading purveyor of vodka for more than 150 years and is known for its smooth flavor and strong taste. The traditional vodka-making process involves heating the grain and turning it into a mash, before it is fermented and distilled.
The distillate is then cut with water to achieve the desired proof, filtered multiple times through charcoal, herbs, and other ingredients, and finally blended with other ingredients before bottling.
The process of making Smirnoff vodka is time-consuming and complex, but the result is one of the world’s most popular vodka brands.
At what proof do you stop distilling?
The proof at which you stop distilling your liquor depends on a few factors. The type of alcohol being distilled, the purpose of the distillation, and the equipment being used all play a role in deciding the proof.
If you are distilling for consumption, the general rule of thumb is to stop at 190 proof, or 95% alcohol. This is the point at which the alcohol becomes too concentrated and can start to cause negative health effects.
However, if you are distilling for industrial purposes, you may need to distill to a higher proof. For example, if you are distilling ethanol for fuel, you may need to distill to 205 proof, or 102.5% alcohol.
The type of alcohol also affects the proof at which you stop distilling. For example, methanol has a boiling point of 148°F, while ethanol has a boiling point of 172°F. This means that if you are distilling a mixture of these two alcohols, you will need to stop at a lower proof when distilling for consumption, since the methanol will start to come over at a lower proof than the ethanol.
Finally, the type of equipment you are using will also affect the proof at which you need to stop distilling. If you are using a fractionating column, you will be able to remove the components of the mixture at different boiling points, and so you can distill to a higher proof.
However, if you are using a simple pot still, you will not be able to remove the components of the mixture at different boiling points, and so you will need to stop at a lower proof.
In general, the proof at which you stop distilling will depend on the type of alcohol being distilled, the purpose of the distillation, and the type of equipment being used.
How many potatoes does it take to make vodka?
It takes approximately 5-7.5 pounds of potatoes to produce 1 liter of vodka. Depending on the type and size of the potatoes, you may be able to produce closer to 8-9 pounds of vodka per 5-7.5 pounds of potatoes.
The amount of potatoes you will need to produce a liter of vodka ultimately depends on the specific potato variety and its starch content. Potatoes with higher starch content make better vodka, as the fermentable sugars help create a smoother flavor.
Additionally, larger potatoes will yield higher amounts of vodka.
Can vodka be distilled?
Yes, vodka can be distilled. Vodka is a type of spirit that is typically made from grains or potatoes that are fermented, then the resulting liquid is filtered and repeatedly distilled. This distillation process produces alcohol with a higher percentage of alcohol by volume, which is how vodka typically has an ABV between 35-50%.
This distillation process concentrates the flavors and aromas of the vodka and makes it smoother in flavor. Different vodka brands differ in the ways they distill their products, so the result can vary in flavor profiles and characteristics.
Additionally, as part of the distillation process, high-proof alcohol is sometimes added to adjust the ABV.
What does distilling do for vodka?
Distilling is the process used to make vodka and other hard liquors. During distillation, alcohol is separated from water and other impurities by heating the liquid and then condensing it. Distillation is the key way to turn the fermented mash, made from grains, potatoes, or other organic materials, into vodka.
The distillation process yields a higher alcohol content, and the number of distillations is used to determine the proof of the vodka. This process is also used to refine the flavor of the vodka, as some of the liquid compounds that give vodka its flavor evaporate.
Generally, vodka is distilled three to five times, but some brands have been found to have been distilled up to ten times, giving the resulting spirit a smoother, more differentiated taste and a higher proof.
The higher the number of distillations, the less impurities remain and the fewer organic molecules are present that can lead to harsh aftertastes or odors.
Additionally, distillation can also be used to add flavor to vodka. Some companies will add fruits and herbs during distillation, allowing their flavor compounds to be extracted and making flavored vodkas.
The process also removes undesired substances, such as methanol, which can be toxic if not removed. By the end of the distillation process, the vodka will be typically be anywhere from 80 to 100 proof, and its taste can be further perfected by running through varying levels of filtration.
Does distillation increase alcohol content?
No, distillation does not increase the alcohol content of a liquid. Distillation is a process of separating the components of a mixture by differences in their boiling points. Doing this process will not change the amount of alcohol in the liquid.
However, through distillation, it is possible to collect separate liquid fractions that have different alcohol content levels. In this way, distillation is used to create different alcoholic beverages with different ABV (alcohol by volume) levels.
It is also used to purify and concentrate alcoholic beverages, such as moonshine and some whiskey. So, while distillation does not increase the alcohol content, it can be used to create or concentrate alcoholic beverages with differing alcohol levels.
How do you safely distill alcohol?
Distilling alcohol can be done safely as long as you take all of the necessary precautions. The process requires a still, which are usually made of either glass or stainless steel. The still should be made of food-grade materials and be able to withstand high temperatures.
You will also need a heat source, such as a hot plate, and distilling accessories, such as hoses, clamps, and a hydrometer.
Before you begin distilling, you should check local laws to make sure that it is legal to distill alcohol in your area. You should also wear protective clothing, such as safety glasses and heat-resistant gloves.
Additionally, make sure that your workspace is well-ventilated and that all flammable items are kept away from the distilling area.
When you’re ready to start the process, it’s important to follow each step carefully. Fill the still with the liquid that you want to distill, such as beer or wine. Place the still on the heat source, bring the liquid to a boil, and then lower the heat to maintain a steady simmer.
Depending on your still’s design, you’ll need to collect the alcohol vapor in a separate drinkable container or redistill it. Use a hydrometer to check the alcohol content in the vapor before redistilling, and watch out for lines in the vapor as they will indicate when you’re close to the end of the process.
It’s important to remember to be patient and attentive throughout the distilling process. Always maintain the proper temperatures and take the necessary safety precautions. If done properly, distilling alcohol can be done safely and provide you with a delicious drinkable product.
Is 200 proof alcohol possible?
Yes, 200 proof alcohol is possible. Pure ethanol, or ethyl alcohol, is 200 proof and is the kind of alcohol commonly found in alcoholic beverages. Most liquors, such as vodka and whiskey, are no higher than 190 proof, although a few specialty liquors, such as Everclear, can reach as high as 190 proof.
To get to 200 proof, a manufacturer must add additional pure ethanol to the distilled spirits. In the United States, anything with more than 192 proof must be labeled as a “high level of alcohol,” and is not allowed to be sold in retail stores.
In some other countries, liquors as high as 200 proof can be sold. However, these very high proof liquors should be used responsibly, as consuming them can lead to intoxication very quickly.
What volume of alcohol is present after first distillation?
The volume of alcohol present after the first distillation depends on several factors, including the type of alcohol being distilled, the strength of the original solution, and the efficiency of the still.
Generally, however, the distillate from the first distillation will have an alcohol by volume (ABV) of approximately 40-50%. This means that, for a given volume of liquid, the resulting distillate will have 40-50% of that volume as pure alcohol.
For example, if you start with a one-gallon solution of 20% ABV, the resulting first distillate will be approximately 0.4 to 0.5 gallons of 40-50% ABV alcohol.
Why do distillation of some alcoholic drinks is done?
Distillation of alcoholic beverages such as whisky and vodka is done to refine the product and to remove impurities from the liquid. During distillation, the liquid is heated and vaporized. This vapor contains the correct blend of alcohol and water.
As the vapor moves up through a still, it passes through a series of condensers, cooling the vapor and turning the alcohol and water back into a liquid. Since alcohol has a lower boiling point than water, it boils off first.
Then, as more heat is applied, even more alcohol is vaporized, giving the liquid a more concentrated alcohol content. The distillation process is also used to produce different proofs of spirits (80, 100, etc) and different flavor profiles, as the components of the beverages are separated and various amounts of each component are then put back into the liquid to produce the desired result.
All of this serves to produce a much more refined, higher quality product.
How much alcohol do you get from a 25 Litre wash?
The amount of alcohol you will get from a 25-litre wash depends on multiple factors including the type of wash, your equipment and the efficiency of your distillation process. Generally distillation processes are around 60-70% efficient and will produce approximately 10-15 litres of alcohol.
You can use a calculator to work out the exact results of your wash, or you can view approximate results in brewing or distilling books.
In order to get the most alcohol from your 25 litre wash, it’s important that you use the correct amount of yeast and ensure your fermentation process is effective. Generally, the temperature should be around 20-25 degrees Celsius and should be sealed as best as possible in order to maintain consistency of the fermentation process.
Additionally, the more sugar you add to the wash, the stronger the alcohol percentage will be.
Having the right equipment is also essential in order to get the best results from the 25 litre wash. An essential piece of equipment is the condenser, witch is used to cool the vapours from the still in order to turn it back into liquid form.
To summarise, the amount of alcohol you get from a 25-litre wash can vary depending on the source of your wash, the temperature and length of your fermentation process, and the efficiency of your distillation.
With the right ingredients, equipment, and knowledge, you can use a 25 Litre wash to produce up to 15 litres of high-percentage alcohol.
What proof is homemade vodka?
Homemade vodka is proofed by measuring the alcohol content of the finished product. It can be done with basic equipment such as a hydrometer, refractometer, or a proofing kit. The hydrometer measures the “specific gravity” or density of the distillate compared to water, while the refractometer measures the refraction index of the liquid.
A proofing kit includes both a hydrometer and a proofing cylinder, as well as graduated beakers and graduated cylinders, as well as a thermometer and an alcohol thermometer. Once a sample of homemade vodka is taken and tested, the percentage of alcohol content can be calculated according to the following formula: Alcohol % by volume = (final specific gravity reading – initial specific gravity reading) x 100.
The final proof of homemade vodka is the raw alcohol content multiplied by two, resulting in a proof range of 40 to 190. Distillers should check their proof against industry standards to ensure their product is true to the stated proof on the label.
Homemade vodka should also be checked for clarity and aroma before bottling.
What is the highest proof in vodka?
The highest proof for vodka is 95% or 190 proof. It is also referred to as “Everclear” or “Grain Alcohol”. Generally, Everclear is colorless, odorless and tasteless. It is most commonly found in the United States and Canada, but not available in all states or provinces.
It is important to note that 95% or 190 proof vodka is not recommended to be used as a mixer and should be drank with caution due to its high alcohol content. It is often used to make different types of liqueurs and flavored beverages.
Can you get 100% vodka?
Yes, you can get 100% (or higher) vodka. This type of vodka is referred to as “neat vodka”. Neat vodka is clear, colorless alcohol made from distilling fermented grains such as corn, rye, or wheat. It contains no added sugar, water, or other additives and usually has an alcohol content of around 96%.
However, some brands of neat vodka, such as Absolute and Ciroc, are bottled at higher alcohol concentrations of up to 75% or even 80%. Some brands also sell premium unfiltered neat vodka that reaches up to 95%, or even higher.
As neat vodka is strong and odorless, it is typically used in cocktails or as a base for other alcoholic beverages.
What proof is moonshine?
Moonshine is an alcoholic beverage that is produced illegally, typically through the distillation of grain or fruit mash in a homemade still. It is traditionally made with fermented corn, sugar, and water, but many other variations, such as apple pie moonshine, exist.
It is usually very high in alcohol content, sometimes reaching over 90% by volume.
The term “moonshine” originated in England, where it was used to describe whiskey made in secret, usually to avoid paying taxes. This practice is believed to date back to the 13th century, when the cold weather helped the illicit distillers to hide the smell of their product.
The production of moonshine was quite common in the United States after the Revolutionary War and was often made by former soldiers and farmers in the Appalachian region. The Federal Government had imposed a tax on distilled spirits, which led to a rise in illegal stills.
Moonshine became a way for people to avoid paying the tax, and the name stuck.
Over time, the production and consumption of moonshine became a deeply entrenched part of the culture of Appalachia. It was a way to make money, especially during times of hardship such as the Great Depression and the prohibition.
But it is widely believed that the practice of making and consuming distilled spirits began with farmers and other rural people who were looking for a way to make use of their excess grain or fruit. The ingenuity of these people and the difficulties they endured to make moonshine helped shape the history of the region.
What brand of vodka is 120 proof?
Smirnoff is a brand of vodka that is 120 proof. It has been around since 1864, making it one of the oldest and most established vodka brands on the market. It can be found in many different flavors and sizes, including regular, flavored, and extra-smooth varieties.
Smirnoff vodka is made from a blend of filtered water, winter wheat and malted barley, and then distilled five times to form a smooth, flavorless taste. The vodka has a clean, crisp finish and a relatively smooth texture on the palate.
It’s perfect to use in cocktails, either straight or mixed, and it’s also enjoyable enough to drink straight as a shot or chilled on the rocks.
