The art behind Whisky's Alchemical Process
If whisky production were to be compared to a symphony, distillation would undoubtedly be its crescendo. It is in this process that the liquid is transformed into the golden spirit we know and love. But what actually happens during distillation, and how is the character of the whisky formed during this phase? Let’s delve into this fascinating world.
The Essence of Distillation
Distillation is the process of heating a liquid to separate its various components based on their boiling points. In whiskey making, this process is used to remove unwanted substances, concentrate alcohol, and extract the desired aromatic compounds.
Steps in Distillation
First distillation (Wash distillation): The alcohol-rich wash from the fermentation process is heated in a distillation apparatus called a wash still. During the heating, the alcohol and other volatiles evaporate. The traveling vapors are then condensed into a liquid called "low wines", which has a higher alcohol concentration than the original wash.
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Second distillation (Spirit distillation): Low wines are distilled again in a second apparatus called a spirit still. This process further divides the distillate into different fractions: heads, hearts and tails. It is the hearts that are primarily used for aging as they contain the desired alcohol concentration and flavor profile.
The Influence of Distillation on Taste
Every step in the distillation process, from the type of still to the exact temperature and timing of distillation, can have a significant impact on the final taste of the whisky. For example:
Distillery shape: Pot stills of different shapes can produce distillates with different flavor profiles.
Intersection point: The point at which the distiller chooses to switch between forerunner, heart and trailing can significantly change the character of the whisky.
Conclusion
Distillation is both a science and an art that has been refined over centuries. It is critical to the taste, purity and strength of whisky. When we appreciate a pour of our favourite whisky, we are drinking not only the result of grain and water, but also the skill and experience that the distiller has brought to every drop.
