The Flavors of Distillation

The flavors of distillation refer to the different ways alcohol can be separated and refined, influencing the final taste of spirits. Pure distillation produces a neutral, high-proof alcohol, while methods like aging or adding flavorings introduce complex notes such as vanilla, spice, or fruit. Techniques like pot stills retain more of the spirit's character, resulting in richer flavors, whereas column stills create cleaner, more neutral spirits. These distinctions shape the unique profiles of liquors like whiskey, rum, or gin, reflecting both the distillation process and ingredients used.