Which distillation method involves making a spirit one batch at a time?

Batch distillation is a method where the distillation process is conducted one batch at a time. In this approach, a specific amount of mash or liquid is processed through the still, allowing for greater control over the distillation parameters and the resulting flavor profile. This method is particularly favored for crafting spirits that require attention to detail and specific characteristics, such as many types of whiskey, including bourbon.

In batch distillation, the still is filled with the wash or mash, heated to evaporate alcohol, and then cooled to condense the vapor back into liquid. This process can be repeated for different batches, allowing distillers to experiment with various ingredients or conditions, which ultimately affects the flavor and quality of the final product.

Continuous distillation, on the other hand, involves a steady feed of wash or mash being processed, which can lead to a more uniform and possibly less complex flavor profile. Column distillation also falls under continuous processes and is more suited for producing neutral spirits, typically lacking the richness that can come from batch distillation. Hybrid distillation combines elements of multiple distillation techniques but does not inherently focus on batch processing.

Therefore, recognizing batch distillation as the method that operates on a single batch basis is key to understanding the various approaches to spirit