Alcohol Distillation and Its Cultural Symbolism

Alcohol distillation is a process in which liquid is heated until its boiling point and then guided through a condenser, where its vapor cools down and condenses to leave behind concentrated alcohol liquid, known as the “distillate.”

Ancient distilling wasn’t done for drinking enjoyment but as part of various mystery religions that practiced distillation as part of ritual practices. They believed spirits distilled during these practices came directly from god, with its sacred waters believed to have healing properties and even life-preserving effects.

Early stills consisted of a heated container, condenser, and collection vessel to collect condensed distillate. Over time this evolved into pot stills used today for producing spirits such as gin, vodka and some rums. Modern industrial stills employ much more complex systems similar to how a distillery operates on a larger scale.

Distillates include vodka, gin and some rums which are unaged; whiskey and other flavorful spirits which have been aged (such as cognac). Aging adds depth of flavor while changing both the color and texture. Depending on what kind of spirit is being made there may be specific regulations or laws in place concerning age requirements for bottling; for instance the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897 contains these details along with CFR Title 27 Standards of Identity for Distilled Spirits containing more specific laws regarding age requirements governing these processes.