newbie from bama

[mcbammer]

hey guys...I recently received a 5gal reflux still as a gift and i'm trying to find the best tastes I can. This seems to be an awesome hobby and i'm enjoying reading all the information availbale and the posts from the guys that have been doing this awhile. As soon as I can i'll post some pics of the new toy. So far i've ran two different washes. The first wash measured out at 151 proof and the 2nd at 132 proof. Both runs tasted like straight rubbing alcohol. I realize moonshine is going to taste like strong alcohol but is there any guidance on calming it down some? Is it because its a striaght sugar wash without grain? My next run will be with corn meal or sweet feed. Any helpful tips will be greatly appreciated.

[Dnderhead]

if its taste like rubbing alcohol then it most likely has heads in it.

[mcbammer]

I figured i was collecting some bad in there. I'm new so i've still gotta get my cuts under control. I appreciate the input and i'll work on my cuts.

[LWTCS]

Just collect with a bunch of small jars Bammer....
Maybe 300ml at a time.

[davidwh]

Welcome bloke,

sounds like the first few steps to getting it sorted are underway. Enjoy!

I reckon Dnder has nailed it heads perhaps fores as well...

I'd strongly suggest getting through the basic reading especially the posts dealing with cuts. Can't over do cuts whilst you coming to grips with the process and a new still.
A 19pt var in proof sounds like your process needs some work...if I got 5 pts var. I'd be peeved and hunting down the cause.

Relax, take your time first few runs are trainers in real terms with some more reading and hands on it will fall into place.

cheers
davew

[mcbammer]

A 19pt var in proof sounds like your process needs some work...if I got 5 pts var. I'd be peeved and hunting down the cause.

Well there was a difference in the wash. My wife was hellbent on trying out some moonshine but wanted a lemonade moonshine so she helped me with the 2nd wash. 2lbs sugar 1/2 lb countrytime lemonade. I knew it wouldnt be lemonade but i cant stop her from helping. Pretty sure thats the issue.

Another question: I see alot of complaints on the turbo yeast. Whats the deal besides the price? Any suggestions on a better yeast? I used Hillbilly stills 48 hr yeast.

[Dnderhead]

most use bread/bakers yeast,cheep,but you will need nutrients (check out recipes)

[davidwh]

Bama,

wrong way round on lemonade...make a good clean spirit first then air as usual and add it to lemonade base would be the go.

Yep a bakers yeast is the used around here ..I get 8 washes per can and its $3.50 a can...no nasty flavours unless you push past it's best fermenting temp...tried this...pushed to 35c and it wasn't a keeper.
I generally run at 32c. Also let your yeast have some fun, allow a reasonable open fermenter time for it to multipy and grow before putting it to work with a closed fermenter..roughly 1 hour seems to work.

davew