Char Check

Treatment and handling of your distillate.

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OtisT
Master of Distillation
Posts: 3390
Joined: Sat Oct 24, 2015 11:59 am
Location: Pacific Northwest

Char Check

Post by OtisT »

Howdy. I've read about and done a little charing, and know that the "correct char" is subjective and the correct process is also subjective. I simply want to share some pics and get any feedback on my process of level of charring. The few specific questions are below..

For these toasts, I am using a propane torch adjusted down to a 1" long, 2.5cm, blue flame.
My sticks are 3/4" x 3/4" x 6" (2cm x 2cm x 15 cm)
To toast, I run the toarch down one side with a small zig-zag pattern, and the torch was touching each side of the stick for 10 seconds. I finish with a little char to the ends.

The result is a thin char, and I can see small hints of un-charred wood through the char.
IMG_2845.JPG
IMG_2848.JPG
I am wondering if this char is enough for a Bourbon? This last pic includes a stick on the right with a bit more char on it. About 16 seconds per side. I can no longer see any un- charred wood through the surface.
IMG_2841.JPG
So in your opinion, is the thin char enough for jar aging, or perhaps the second deeper char? Maybe you think I should go even deeper? Just looking for opinions from those who have done much more of this than me.

Thanks. Otis
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Otis’ Pot and Thumper, Dimroth Condenser: Pot-n-Thumper/Dimroth
Learning to Toast: Toasting Wood
Polishing Spirits with Fruitwood: Fruitwood
Badmotivator’s Barrels: Badmo Barrels

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