Having to disappoint friends :(

[shawry99]

Well since my hobby began I've made some nice drinkable spirit (I know, once I start double distilling it will improve ) however I've found that friends have started asking to buy it from me after tasting at mine at get togethers.

I've found it really difficult to say no, as its one thing making for my own consumption, but I dont want to get into more trouble by selling it to.

Ive given some away as gifts, but I would like my friends to be able to enjoy the fruits of my labour without having to throw parties every few weeks

[YHB]

Yes you are right - selling booze leaves you wide open to a lot more trouble than making it just for your own use.

Try the - "Sell it! - If I had it, I would give you it - It's time I'm short of - Sorry" approach.

Put any surplus stock away for aging, so that when you do have a party it will create even more of an impression and maybe encourage your friends to make their own.

[Magnu420]

you can tell them if they get the ingredients you will
make some and maybe you can get a bottle out of it

[Normski]

I agree with YHB, if they like it. you could show them how to make there own.

[Almanac]

Even gifting your handmade spirits to others can be fraught.

Unintentionally, a friend may confide in their friend that they have a friend that makes .... and this could be overheard by someone who knows someone who's connected to someone who works in Customs & Excise

I have a rule about my distilling activities and it's a copy of 'Fight Club's' rules.

AM

[Frank]

IMHO,
if you are proud of what you make, give it away freely whilst friends/family visit and maybe even as 'special' presents
however +1 the idea that if you keep lots 'under wraps' and let it age (particularly if it is in a barrel or similar) you and your invited fellow drinkers will be ever-more impressed.

the trouble with selling your spirit (beyond legalities, which are truly worth consideration)is that what you make and how much you tried, just isnt so special anymore.