3' Column vs Pot Still

[still_chillin]

I've been using a 3' column without packing for whiskey/rum/bourbon for a while and can't complain about the results. But then, I don't really have anything to compare it to.

Do you think a short neck would give better results? Am I missing flavor with this 3' column?

[Berserk]

Does the column have a reflux condenser? If it does, there might be some difference. If it doesn't it's just a pot still with a tall riser, and the results will probably be the same as with a shorter neck.

[NZChris]

It isn't really a column. All it does is raise the inlet of the condenser to a suitable height for the outlet to run into your collection jar. Call it a riser or a gooseneck, and I'm sure there are other terms as well, but don't let the newbies and Youtubers confuse you with the columns used with reflux condensers that actually do some work.

[Demy]

A column with only the output, so no reflux condenser is exactly like a pot-still, you will have the same product. There may be passive reflux in the column walls due to contact with ambient air (if not isolated) but it is very low, negligible.

[Saltbush Bill]

A column with only the output, so no reflux condenser is exactly like a pot-still,

How is a boka with no packing ....but needs a reflux condencer to work any different to a pot still? What comes out the spout will be exactly the same.

[Demy]

A column with only the output, so no reflux condenser is exactly like a pot-still,

How is a boka with no packing ....but needs a reflux condencer to work any different to a pot still? What comes out the spout will be exactly the same.

If I understand what you mean, in this case the reflux coil will also act as a chiller of the product but no reflux therefore like a pot still.

[still_chillin]

Thanks for the answers all. I had initially planned to add a condenser, but never cared for neutrals. Will leave it as is.

[zapata]

I often do pot runs with a tall empty riser 3 or 4 feet tall (not for any good reason other than those are the lengths I have laying around). I believe there is some small benefit. Passive reflux or less entrainment? IDK but I like it better than when I've run with just inches of riser.

[still_stirrin]

I believe there is some small benefit.

Zap...sure there is...you don’t have to bend over to change jars!

[BlueSasquatch]

I would imagine the taller the riser the harder it is for the still to puke?