The yield of a T500 still can vary depending on various factors such as the type of wash being distilled, the spirit being produced, and the distillation technique employed. The T500 Reflux still, when properly diluted, can produce up to 8 liters (2.1 US gallons) of 40% ABV spirit per run. On the other hand, the T500 Alembic Pot still can yield up to 7 liters (1.8 US gallons) of 40% ABV spirit per run once diluted.
It is important to note that the yield is stated once the spirit is diluted to a standard 40% ABV. This means that the actual volume of the distillate collected during the run will be higher, but it will need to be diluted to achieve the desired alcohol strength.
The yield of both stills is highly dependent on the quality and composition of the wash being distilled. The wash refers to the liquid mixture of fermented ingredients that undergoes distillation to produce alcohol. Different washes can have varying levels of fermentable sugars, which directly impact the alcohol yield during distillation.
Furthermore, the type of spirit being produced can also affect the yield. Different spirits have different alcohol content requirements, and this can influence the volume of the final product obtained from a single run. For example, if you are distilling a higher ABV spirit like vodka, the overall yield may be lower compared to distilling a lower ABV spirit like whiskey.
The distillation technique employed can also play a role in the yield. With the T500 Reflux still, which utilizes a fractionating column, the distillation process is more efficient and allows for higher purity alcohol to be collected. This can result in a higher yield compared to the T500 Alembic Pot still, which operates as a simple pot still without the added fractionating column.
To optimize the yield, it is crucial to carefully monitor and control the distillation process. This includes ensuring that the wash has undergone proper fermentation and achieving an optimal balance between flavor and alcohol extraction during distillation.
In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have found that the yield can vary significantly depending on the specific circumstances. Factors such as the quality of the ingredients, the fermentation process, and the skill of the distiller all contribute to the final yield. It is always fascinating to experiment and refine the distillation technique to achieve the desired outcome.
While the T500 stills provide a general guideline for the expected yield, it is important to keep in mind that the actual yield can vary based on a multitude of factors. The key to maximizing yield lies in understanding the intricacies of the distillation process, experimenting with different washes, and continuously refining the technique to achieve the desired results.