The best still for making rum is undoubtedly a pot still, and one that comes highly recommended is the T500 Alembic Pot Still. This type of still is known for producing high-quality spirits with rich flavors and aromas, making it ideal for crafting a superb rum.
One of the key advantages of using a pot still is its ability to retain more of the character and complexity of the raw ingredients. Pot stills work by heating the liquid in a large pot, which causes the alcohol to vaporize and rise up into a condenser where it is then cooled and collected as distillate. This process allows for a greater concentration of flavors and imparts a distinctive character to the final product.
The T500 Alembic Pot Still, in particular, is a popular choice among rum enthusiasts for its superior performance and construction. Its design includes a copper dome and condenser, which not only helps to remove impurities but also adds depth and smoothness to the spirit. Copper is known for its ability to react with sulfur compounds and other impurities, resulting in a cleaner and more refined end product.
When using a pot still like the T500 Alembic, it is important to pay attention to the cut points during distillation. The “heads,” which contain volatile compounds and undesirable flavors, should be discarded. The “hearts,” which consist of the desired spirit, should be collected and used for the final rum. The “tails,” which contain heavier and less desirable compounds, should also be discarded.
It's worth noting that some distillers may opt to use a column still, such as the T500 with Condenser Column, for rum production. However, it is recommended to remove the saddles from the column to prevent the reflux action from rectifying the rum into a cleaner spirit. This is because rum typically benefits from retaining more of its raw and robust characteristics.
If you're looking to make the highest quality rum, a pot still like the T500 Alembic Pot Still is the way to go. Its ability to preserve and enhance the flavors and aromas of the raw ingredients will result in a rum that is rich, complex, and truly exceptional. Happy distilling!