The Role of Column and Pot Stills in Alcohol Production

Pot stills, with their distinctive pot or kettle shape, epitomize the traditional approach to spirit distillation. This process is ideal for distillers looking to operate their production on a batch-by-batch basis. The design allows for more complex spirits with a robust flavor profile, as it retails more of the congeners and impurities from raw materials. 

How Does It Work?

The distillation process involves heating the liquid in the pot, causing it to vaporize. The vapor then travels through a swan neck and condenses back into liquid form in the Lyne Arm, collecting in the receiving vessel. Pot Stills are known for producing spirits with a more robust and diverse flavor profile. They retain more of the original character of the raw materials, resulting in a product with distinct and complex flavors.  

Column Stills–another efficient form of distilling–present a starkly different design and functionality. The tall, vertical columns are characterized by multiple plates or trays. Designed for uninterrupted operation, Column Stills continuously processes liquid and efficiently separates alcohol from impurities to produce pure and light spirits.

The Lasting Impact

The distillation process of Column Stills differs greatly from Pot Stills. From the top down, liquid is continuously introduced at the top of the column. As it flows downward, it encounters rising vapor. The vapor carries more concentrated alcohol as it moves upward through the trays or plates, allowing for multiple distillations to take place within the column. The end result is a purer, more neutral spirit. It is used for the production of vodka and other light spirits, as it removes many of the impurities that contribute to flavor.