Illicit still, also known as a moonshine still, refers to a homemade or illegal distillation apparatus used to produce alcohol, typically spirits like whisky or moonshine. The term “illicit” implies that the still is operating without the necessary permits or licenses from the government or regulatory authorities.
Historically, illicit stills were prevalent during periods of prohibition or high taxes on alcohol. In the early 1800s, when The Glenlivet whisky was first crafted, such illicit stills were common in the Scottish Highlands. The remote and rugged landscape provided the perfect cover for illegal distillers to operate in secret, away from the prying eyes of authorities.
The process of making whisky in an illicit still involves the fermentation and distillation of a mash, typically made from grains such as barley, corn, or rye. The mash is heated to release the alcohol vapors, which are then condensed and collected to produce the final product. Illicit stills were often small-scale operations, hidden in remote locations such as caves, barns, or even underground.
The production of whisky in an illicit still was not only illegal but also dangerous. The lack of proper equipment and regulation meant that the process was prone to accidents, such as explosions or fires. The quality of the whisky produced in these stills also varied widely, as there were no standards or quality controls in place.
Today, the term “illicit still” is more of a historical reference rather than a common practice. The whisky industry is heavily regulated, with distilleries required to obtain licenses and adhere to strict production standards. However, the concept of an illicit still has become somewhat romanticized, representing a time when whisky was crafted by passionate individuals who were willing to go to great lengths to produce their beloved spirit.
In the case of The Glenlivet Illicit Still, the term is used to evoke the spirit of those early days when the whisky was first crafted. By not chill filtering the whisky, The Glenlivet aims to provide whisky enthusiasts with a taste that is as close as possible to the original liquid produced in the illicit stills of the past. Chill filtering is a process that removes certain compounds from the whisky, which can sometimes result in a smoother but potentially less flavorful experience. By not employing this process, The Glenlivet Illicit Still aims to offer a more authentic and robust taste.
An illicit still is a homemade or illegal distillation apparatus used to produce alcohol, often in the form of whisky or moonshine. It refers to a bygone era when illicit distillers operated in secret, away from the regulations and scrutiny of authorities. The Glenlivet Illicit Still pays homage to this historical tradition by offering a limited edition whisky that has not been chill filtered, allowing for a more authentic and flavorful experience.