High wine, also known as distillate, is a term commonly used in the world of distilling. It refers to a concentrated alcohol product that is obtained through the distillation process. This distillate typically contains a high percentage of alcohol, making it a potent and strong spirit.
To understand high wine better, let's delve into the distillation process. Distillation is the method used to separate alcohol from a fermented liquid, such as wine or beer. It involves heating the liquid and collecting the vapor that is produced. This vapor is then condensed back into a liquid form, resulting in a higher alcohol concentration.
High wine is the product obtained after the first distillation process. It is essentially a raw distillate that has not undergone further refining or aging. It contains a high percentage of alcohol, usually ranging from 50% to 70% ABV (alcohol by volume). This concentration is significantly higher than that of most wines or beers, which typically have an ABV of around 10-15%.
The term “high wine” can also be used to describe the distillate that is produced as an intermediate step in the production of other spirits, such as whisky or brandy. In these cases, the high wine is further refined and aged to develop the desired flavors and characteristics of the final product.
In my experience as a brewer and sommelier, I have encountered high wine in various forms. One of the most common uses of high wine is in the production of gin. After the initial distillation of a neutral spirit, botanicals are added to infuse flavors. This results in a high wine that serves as the base for gin production.
Another example is in the production of whisky. After the initial distillation, the high wine is aged in oak barrels, allowing it to develop the complex flavors and aromas that are characteristic of whisky. This aging process can take several years, transforming the high wine into a rich and flavorful spirit.
It's important to note that high wine is typically not consumed as is. Due to its high alcohol content and lack of aging, it can be quite harsh and intense on its own. However, it serves as a crucial ingredient in the production of various spirits, providing the foundation for further refinement and flavor development.
To summarize, high wine is a distillate that contains a high percentage of alcohol. It is obtained through the distillation process and serves as the raw material for the production of various spirits. Whether it's used as the base for gin or undergoes aging to become whisky, high wine plays a vital role in the creation of these beloved alcoholic beverages.