StillSmart

Hi

Iam a bit new to this lark, and Im having trouble with cuts. Been using a 6KG sugar wash with vodka star. I really am struggling with identifying the point where to make the cuts. I have read about nail varnish remover and wet dog smells etc, but having trouble putting it into practice. I have been chucking the first 200ml to cover the fores, but the transition between heads hearts and tails is really difficult for me. Anyone got any cunning plans?

Hi Corrosive brew as a rough guide about 10% of your estimated total alcohol from your wash will be heads so if you expect 3ltr alcohol 300ml will be heads or there abouts.
this may be a good read for you
http://homedistiller.org/forum/viewtopi ... t=cm+guide
Hope this helps
cheers

Try diluting it with hot water when you are making the cuts, aim for 30% ABV or less. That makes the taste clearer to me. If that does not work try diluting with something like Cherry Coke.

When making cuts I start making my smell and taste tests with the middle jar and work outwards towards the heads first then the tails.

I find when I'm getting to the heads the likker gives a sting sensation to the tongue and the tails smells like warm bad water.

When making cuts save all the jars with heads and tails in them for future feint runs but remember to dilute to 40% or under before hand.

Thanks Guys, will be doing another run at the weekend and I will try those tips out. Cheers

Main thing to remember is that we've all been in that position at some point at the start of hobby .. lots of practice, take your time .. it will come to you !

Also if you do mess up with the cuts .. its no problem water it back down throw it all in the still again and away you go !!!

Plus as you've found there's some cracking people on this forum (like all of them !!) with a huge range of knowledge they are more than happy to share.

Iain