How to run a still

[jpparts]

If I had an 8 gallon still but say 12 gallons of mash to run, how would I do that? Do I put 6 gallons in the boiler and when I am done, dump out what is left? Can I leave that liquid in and when it cools some, add the other other 6 gals and keep running? Thanks

[Sporacle]

Depends on a number of factors.

Firstly what is the minimum charge that will keep your elements covered?

What is your intended product?

What type of Still?

Generally people strip to collect low wines and then spirit run, or do a 1.5 run.

[elbono]

If your mash is 10% abv there will be about 4 1/2 gallons left after running 6 gallons. You won't fit the next 6 gallons in.

If you're running electric you may need to dilute the low wines to keep the element covered on the spirit run.

[Dee Envy]

First off, I am a noob with a few runs under my belt.
From what I have read here, run it in two batches of 6 gal each. You can save the backset for later use. There will not be enough room in the boiler after the first run to be able to add the second fill.
Mix the low wines together for a spirit run later.

[jpparts]

Firstly what is the minimum charge that will keep your elements covered? - I use propane

What is your intended product? - AG whiskey

What type of Still? Pot

Maybe, dump out what is in the boiler from the first run. Pour in the second bucket of mash and the strippings from the first and run that?

[shadylane]

That's what folks around here call a 1.5 run.

[NZChris]

Maybe, dump out what is in the boiler from the first run. Pour in the second bucket of mash and the strippings from the first and run that?

That is called a 1.5 run. It's very popular and makes nice product.

[Deplorable]

If I only had 12 gallons of wash to run, I'd probably do a 1.5 run. You'll get a good product and a fair amount of it. While you're enjoying that, make another 2 ferments. 20 gallons of cleared wash should get you around 5 to 6 gallons of 30% for the spirit run + a gallon of fresh wash. From there you'll get around 1 to 1.5 gallons of aging keep after cuts.

[shadylane]

If I had an 8 gallon still but say 12 gallons of mash to run, how would I do that?

I'd recommend doing two 6 gallon stripping runs and a spirit run.

[Dee Envy]

That's what folks around here call a 1.5 run.

That is why I love this site!
So much to learn.

[Demy]

Two ways to get the same product, it's up to you... it's personal preference.... the backset will be useful to improve the flavor and to dilute low wines (if necessary).

[Fishy]

That is why I love this site!
So much to learn.


i just joined and im loving it