I just finished my first spirit run of a small batch (9l of 40% ABV BW) and it took longer than I expected but the product was pretty much all coming off at 95% ABV. So I am happy with the results. However I used most of a 20 lb propane tank to get this done. Between the stripping runs and the spirit run I am thinking that I used more than a full tank of propane. Is that normal for an end result of about 3.5l to 4l of spirit (only some of which is drinkable)? If so the cost of this stuff just jumped big time. I haven't blended the spirits yet but am guessing I will end up with 1/3 to 1/2 as drinkable product, which after dilution will yield about 3 to 4 litres. If that is correct then my heating cost alone is around $5 to $7 per litre.
I know this is still cheap compared to what we pay for the stuff at the likker store but from some of the posts I read on this forum you guys in the US can buy 1.75l bottles of Vodka at Sam's Club for $9.95 which is about my cost just for heating. Something doesn't make sense. Am I missing something or doing something wrong?
Something doesn't make sense. Am I missing something or doing something wrong?