VM Problems

[Myles]

Myles: For rum I use a column but run it wide open with no packing on both the stripping and spirit runs. Don't want or need any reflux.It's all about maintaining the characteristics of the rum. As I said yesterday, a rum that is taken to a point above 90% ABV can no longer be classified as a rum. It might be a good clean product but its nearer a vodka/shine or what ever.

Capt.: cant remember your comment.

Right that explains a lot. You are using it as a pot still with a tall riser, not as a reflux column at all.
I was referring to the use of a short packed column, with reflux and column stabilisation used as as normal. Remove the heads and then run the hearts at 93 to 94%. I don't do so but other folks swear by it for white rum, not for dark rum.