Distillery

Distillation is used to derive pure alcohol from cane sugar, fruit, grain, whey, vegetables or other raw materials that contain fermentable sugars. Various products can be produced using a basic pot still or column still, such as Vodka, Gin, Grappa, Fruit liqueurs, Whisky, Absinthe, Tequila, Rum (dark and white) Tsiporo, Calvados and other neutral spirits that can be infused with an abundance of botanicals to reach a desired flavour.

Different still types are used for different spirit production and the method of distillation can impact the flavour profile of the end product considerably.

Distilling Services We Offer

Here at BB&C we offer many services for the distillation industry and are available to help you build a strong business case to seek investors for you project. Alternatively you may have the funds to embark on such a venture and require strong technical and proven skills in establishing the distillery production area. Either way BB&C come prepared with the experience and industry knowledge to provide you with the skills necessary to turn those ideas into a reality.

Some of the services that BB&C include but are not limited to:

• Initial Concept Reviews & feasibility studies for your product
• Recipe development
• Equipment design, selection and sourcing from our world-wide network
• Equipment installation, commissioning and de-bugging services
• Distillation training - how to distill the best products possible
• Blending & Maturation principles
• Pilot batches for market development
• Contract Distillation services
• Contract Brand development
• Quality and stability testing
• Packaging and bottling services, advice & consulting
• Distilling education and sensory analysis
• Consumer educating and tasting sessions

Distillery Equipment

There are many types of distillation equipment available from traditional pot stills made of copper to highly automated column stills that focus on throughput. Each has their function and each is very specific at creating the flavour and aroma profile required for your end product.

Types Of Distillation Equipment:

Traditional Pot Still can come in as small as 50L to 6000L batch capacity and are traditionally used for more aromatic spirits such as Gins, Grappa, Fruit Liquers and Whisky. These systems are usually electrically heated and allow for a more artisan approach to distillation. Copper features heavily in these designs and come with an array of heads to exaggerate the flavour retention required for the product.

Tall column stills tend to be very tall (15m in some cases) and are designed for throughput. Automation along with steam heating is featured heavily in these types of stills along with a full stainless construction for consistency and longevity. Many of the worlds Vodkas, Tequilas, Absinthes and Rums are produced on column stills.

Peripheral Equipment

Peripheral equipment required to support a distillation manufacturing plant include but not limited to:

Tips On Starting A Distillery

• Make sure you have a clear concept with a sales and marketing focus - this is key
• Ensure the still you select suits the style of product you intend to manufacture
• It pays to seek professional advice when it comes to distillation as the product is a flammable product that requires many safety aspects to be addressed
• Ensure you have a well-ventilated area for the distillation process
• Time is needed for distillation - it is a labour intensive activity
• Make sure you do not undersize your equipment - this can impact your Cost/L
• Ensure you have well-constructed tanks for spirit storage
• Your sensory skills are the best tool when distilling
• Understand the ‘good’ and ‘bad’ parts of the distillate
• Make sure you understand your excise and tax obligations