Backset - never keep enough of it

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raven_r_one
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Backset - never keep enough of it

Post by raven_r_one »

Hi all -

Is it TERRIBLE not to use backset when doing spirit runs?

How much am I leaving on the table by just charging with water and several stripping runs?
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ga flatwoods
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Re: Backset - never keep enough of it

Post by ga flatwoods »

No it is not TERRIBLE not to use backset to dilute for your spirit run. But, depending upon what it is you are running you could be missing out on a little flavor enhancer by not using it. If you are making vodka or neutral it is not so important obviously but would be nice to have for whiskey or bourbon. Straight wash could be used in absence of backset. Either may be placed in a thumper for the same purpose.
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T-Pee
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Re: Backset - never keep enough of it

Post by T-Pee »

ga flatwoods wrote: Either may be placed in a thumper for the same purpose.
Assuming one is using a pot still versus a reflux.

tp
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NZChris
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Re: Backset - never keep enough of it

Post by NZChris »

I don't use it, preferring to strip to around 40%, then further diluting with wash.
Boda Getta
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Re: Backset - never keep enough of it

Post by Boda Getta »

I never diluting with back-set until my last SF ran though my pot still; I have read many posts where some eschew diluting with back-set where others extols the use of back set. IMHO, I could taste a difference when I did my cuts/tasting/blending. If I have good back set on hand the next time I do a SF or UJ sprit, I will use.

BG
raven_r_one
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Re: Backset - never keep enough of it

Post by raven_r_one »

Cool - little bit confused - but yeah, potstill here...
raven_r_one
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Re: Backset - never keep enough of it

Post by raven_r_one »

NZChris wrote:I don't use it, preferring to strip to around 40%, then further diluting with wash.

You make a sugar wash just to dilute?
raven_r_one
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Re: Backset - never keep enough of it

Post by raven_r_one »

Is there any other good option instead of straight water?
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ga flatwoods
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Re: Backset - never keep enough of it

Post by ga flatwoods »

I gave you two why ask again?
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NZChris
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Re: Backset - never keep enough of it

Post by NZChris »

raven_r_one wrote:
NZChris wrote:I don't use it, preferring to strip to around 40%, then further diluting with wash.

You make a sugar wash just to dilute?
No. I hold some back for that purpose.
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NZChris
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Re: Backset - never keep enough of it

Post by NZChris »

raven_r_one wrote:Is there any other good option instead of straight water?
Stop looking at the %ABV at the spout and just run into one large vessel until that is 40% or lower, so that you don't need to dilute with anything. That'll get you more flavor.
raven_r_one
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Re: Backset - never keep enough of it

Post by raven_r_one »

Used a gallon of back set for my spirit run (combining 4 strippers).

Even though it was a tad toasty from the stripping run, holy hell is there a ton of flavor.

I'd love to try with a wash next.

Thanks all!!!
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