As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that Snake Venom beer is indeed distilled, but with a twist. Unlike traditional distillation methods used for spirits like whiskey or vodka, Snake Venom undergoes a process known as freeze distillation. This unique technique involves freezing the fermented beer and then removing the ice to increase the concentration of the remaining liquid.
Freeze distillation is quite different from traditional distillation methods that involve heating the liquid to separate alcohol from water and other components. Instead, Snake Venom takes advantage of the fact that alcohol has a lower freezing point than water. By freezing the beer, the water content freezes into ice, allowing the brewers to separate it from the concentrated beer.
The result of this freeze distillation process is a beer with a higher alcohol content. Snake Venom is famously known for its incredibly high alcohol by volume (ABV) percentage, often exceeding 65%. This makes it one of the strongest beers available commercially.
The freeze distillation process used in Snake Venom not only increases the alcohol content but also affects the flavor profile of the beer. The concentration of flavors becomes more pronounced, and the beer often develops a more complex and intense taste. However, it's important to note that freeze distillation can also strip away some of the delicate flavors found in traditional brewing methods.
It's worth mentioning that freeze distillation is not a widely used technique in the brewing industry. It is often seen as a novelty or experimental process rather than a mainstream method of production. Snake Venom, being one of the most well-known freeze-distilled beers, has gained a reputation for its extreme strength and unique brewing process.
In my personal experience, I have come across Snake Venom on a few occasions, and it has always intrigued me. The high alcohol content and the freeze distillation process make it quite different from the typical beers I encounter in my line of work. Tasting Snake Venom is an experience in itself, with its intense flavors and potent alcohol presence.
To summarize, Snake Venom beer is indeed distilled, but not in the traditional sense. It undergoes a freeze distillation process, where the beer is frozen and the ice is removed to increase the concentration of the liquid. This results in a beer with an exceptionally high ABV and a more pronounced flavor profile. While freeze distillation is not commonly used in the brewing industry, Snake Venom stands out for its unique brewing process and extreme strength.