The term “still” derives its name from the process of distillation. Distillation is a technique used to purify liquids by heating them to create vapor and then cooling the vapor to collect the condensed liquid. The word “still” is believed to have originated from the Middle English word “stillen,” meaning to distill or purify.
The process of distillation has been around for thousands of years and has been used for various purposes throughout history. One of the most well-known uses of a still is in the production of alcohol. By using a still, it is possible to separate the alcohol from the other components of a liquid mixture, such as water, impurities, and flavor compounds.
When it comes to creating alcoholic beverages, such as whiskey, vodka, or rum, the still plays a crucial role. The liquid mixture, also known as the wash or mash, is heated in a pot or kettle. As the temperature rises, the alcohol vaporizes and rises through a column or tube. The vapor then passes into a condenser, where it is cooled and transformed back into a liquid form. This liquid, which is now purified and concentrated, is collected and further processed to create the desired alcoholic beverage.
The name “still” is fitting for this apparatus because it describes the stillness that occurs during the distillation process. As the liquid mixture is heated and vaporized, the impurities and unwanted substances are left behind, while the purified alcohol is collected. This separation process creates a sense of calm and tranquility, as if everything else has become still, leaving only the essence of the liquid behind.
It is worth mentioning that stills can be used with any liquid, not just for alcohol production. For example, essential oils can be extracted from plants using a similar distillation process. The still allows for the separation of the volatile aromatic compounds from the plant material, resulting in highly concentrated essential oils.
In my experience as a brewer and sommelier, I have had the opportunity to work with stills in the production of various alcoholic beverages. I have witnessed firsthand the transformation that occurs during the distillation process, as well as the importance of maintaining the right temperatures and controlling the flow of vapor. It is a delicate and precise technique that requires skill and knowledge to achieve the desired results.
To summarize, the term “still” is used to describe the apparatus used in the process of distillation. It derives its name from the Middle English word “stillen,” which means to distill or purify. Stills are primarily used in the production of alcohol, allowing for the separation of alcohol from other components of a liquid mixture. The name “still” captures the sense of stillness and purification that occurs during the distillation process.