Is it really a reflux?

[jdthedj10]

Hey guys, been out of the game for about 15 years so I'm coming back in and trying to re-immerse myself in the art. Been doing a lot of reading trying to remember lots of things and one thing that I cannot find is driving me nuts here.

I have attached a photo of the column that I built. When I used it I kept it full of copper mesh basically from top to bottom. The column is approximately 42 in high before it turns. This time around I wanted something with more flavor in it so decided to pull all of the copper mesh out. Then I did a little more reading.

It seems that it's not a true reflux still unless it also contains a dephlegmator in conjunction with the packing. I do know without it I can pull off 180 with just the packing and keeping the valve closed during equalization. I have recently decided to put another valve in the drip line that goes back down the column. My thoughts on this is to remove my packing, close off the valve running back down the column, and only open the drip valve.

If I do this do you think I would get more flavors? My only concern is maybe I need enough packing to help remove some of the off flavors. I also may need it to go into reflux for an hour or two to increase the overall proof before opening the outlet valve. I hope my rambling is didn't confuse anybody and maybe somebody can give me some insight on this. What are your thoughts?

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