Distillation is a process that is central to the production of Scotch whisky. It is the process by which alcohol is separated from water and other impurities, resulting in a purer and more concentrated form of the liquid. In this article, we will explore what distillation is and how it applies to Scotch whisky production.
What is Distillation?
Distillation is a chemical process that involves heating a liquid to its boiling point and collecting the resulting vapor. As the liquid heats up, its molecules begin to move faster and faster until they break free of their bonds and become a gas.
This gas is then collected and cooled, causing it to condense back into a liquid. Because different substances have different boiling points, it is possible to separate a mixture of liquids using distillation.
Distillation in Scotch Whisky Production
In Scotch whisky production, distillation is used to separate alcohol from water and other impurities. The process typically involves two rounds of distillation using copper pot stills.
During the first round of distillation, the wash is heated in a pot still. The alcohol evaporates at a lower temperature than water, so it is the first to vaporize.
The vapors rise up the still and pass through a narrow neck called the lyne arm, where they are condensed back into a liquid. The resulting liquid, known as low wines, has a higher alcohol content than the wash.
In the second round of distillation, the low wines are heated in a smaller pot still known as a spirit still. The process is similar to the first round of distillation, but the resulting liquid has an even higher alcohol content. This liquid is known as new make spirit, and it is the basis for all Scotch whisky.
The Role of Copper in Distillation
Copper plays an essential role in Scotch whisky distillation. The pot stills used in Scotch whisky production are made of copper, which helps to remove sulfur compounds and other impurities from the spirit.
Copper also reacts with the alcohol during distillation, helping to create the unique flavor profile that is characteristic of Scotch whisky.
Final Thoughts
Distillation is a critical part of Scotch whisky production. It is the process by which alcohol is separated from water and other impurities, resulting in a purer and more concentrated form of the liquid.
Understanding the basics of distillation is essential for anyone who wants to appreciate the unique and complex flavors of Scotch whisky. From the use of copper pot stills to the two rounds of distillation, every aspect of the process plays a crucial role in the final product.