When it comes to distilling alcohol, the heads are an important component of the process. They make up approximately 30% of the overall alcohol run. But what exactly are the heads and why are they significant in distillation?
The heads refer to the initial portion of the distillate that is collected during the distillation process. They are volatile compounds that have a lower boiling point than ethanol, the desired alcohol. As the distillation process begins, these volatile compounds, which include substances like acetone, acetaldehyde, and methanol, are the first to vaporize and are collected as the heads.
Now, you might wonder why these compounds are collected if they are not desirable in the final product. Well, the heads contain a variety of compounds that can add unpleasant flavors, aromas, and even potential health risks to the finished alcohol. These compounds are often referred to as “congeners” and can contribute to off-flavors such as a harsh or nail polish-like taste.
However, despite their undesirable qualities, the heads are still an important part of the distillation process. They provide valuable information to the distiller about the progress of the run. The presence and intensity of certain compounds in the heads can give insights into the quality of the raw materials used, the efficiency of the distillation equipment, and the overall control of the process.
For example, the presence of methanol in the heads can indicate poor fermentation practices or the use of low-quality ingredients. Methanol is a toxic compound that can cause serious health issues if consumed in high quantities. Therefore, it is crucial for distillers to carefully monitor and discard the heads to ensure the final product is safe for consumption.
To separate the heads from the desired ethanol, the distiller must carefully collect and discard them during the distillation process. This is typically done by collecting the initial distillate in a separate container or by adjusting the temperature and flow rate to minimize the amount of heads collected.
It is important to note that the exact amount of heads produced during distillation can vary depending on several factors, including the type of alcohol being produced, the fermentation process, and the distillation equipment used. While 30% is a rough estimate, it is not a fixed value and can vary from batch to batch.
To summarize, the heads in distilling make up approximately 30% of the alcohol run. They consist of volatile compounds with lower boiling points than ethanol and can contribute to off-flavors and potential health risks in the final product. Despite their undesirable qualities, the heads provide valuable information to the distiller and must be carefully separated and discarded during the distillation process.