The process of distilling gin may be as intricate as procuring the raw materials needed for its production. Most people can also appreciate the process of distillation once the product is already tested and distributed. To help you know more about this, here are some of the facts that you need to know about the methods of gin distillation:
Botanical Steeping
One of the initial steps in the distillation of gin is the steeping of botanicals. The macerated liquid coming from the extracted flavours of certain food and plant materials becomes the primary ingredient. In the process of gin distillation, utmost priority is given to aromatic compounds so that the base compound, or base spirit, is already embedded with a unique flavour. Subsequently, a Gin Distillery will let a botanical compound (like a juniper berry) soak up for two days or 48 hours. The liquid is then condensed following the addition of aromatic essentials and oils.
Vapour Infusion
Vapour infusion is the gin distillation process wherein the base spirit is heated while the botanicals are placed on top. In this process, there is a distinct separation of the vapour from the liquid, making it ideal for various purposes. The vapour infused product has a less intense flavour since the botanical compound is not directly soaked in the primary base spirit. This then gives its elusive flavour compared to the aforementioned botanical steeping method. If you are interested, you can visit a local gin distillery and see first-hand how the process is created.
Vacuum Distillation
One of the key advantages of this type of gin distillation method is that you can lessen the propensity of environmental pressure exerted above the mixture. This type of method’s key goal is to create a liquid mixture with less pressure than the base vapour pressure. This will also, in turn, lessen the boiling point of the liquid, making it ideal for those distillers who would want to opt for less heat engagement. Interestingly, this type of gin distillation method is preferred by various gin distillation companies since it can create a unique and fresh-flavoured beverage.
Steam Distillation
Passing dry steam to the botanical compound is the base procedure involved in steam distillation. The process also involves an intricate steaming of volatile material, which is then followed by condensation. In pale comparison with other forms of gin distillation techniques, the process of steam distillation is most often used to harness the intrinsic properties of immiscible mixtures.
The process of gin distillery requires several procedures to be followed. With the key differences in the approach needed to create and produce distinct flavours, most distillation companies utilise botanical steeping, vapour infusion, vacuum distillation, and steam exposure. These methods are invariably crucial in producing top-quality gin. Thus, further consideration with regards to the careful handling of extracts must also be given precedence.