Carbon in distillate

[Distillingchris]

just running my spirit through my carbon filter and started with water to remove black water coming out the bottom but as i started adding the distillate i started getting black liquid out the bottom again, now is this spirit ruined ? will it go once i tip it back through to triple filter ? is there anythin to add or to pour through ? thanks

[alan]

you need to wash the carbon be-for using it I boil mine then rinse it in a sieve under running water till the water runs clean.alan

[Frank]

@chaslam07.... mate NO the spirit is not ruined.
If you can, try pouring it VERY slowly though a coffee filter or two OR some tightly packed cotton wool..that should get a fair bit of the fine carbon out.
Also, if you leave the spirit alone in a container for a couple of weeks, most of the carbon should settle on the bottom and a careful pour or syphon (if you have suitable high abv hose) will also minimise the 'problem'.

[Distillingchris]

thanks have managed to seperate most so will keep the worst and leave on the side and once ive finished filtering il run it through coffe paper nd cotton wool, i had rinsed it through but for some reason it started coming out black again.

[Almanac]

Also, depends on the type of filter and grade of carbon you're using.

With my Essencia, I fill the system completely with water and over 24 hours I top up the water and draw off what has come through the filter. After 24 hours the filter is completely primed and running crystal clear.

But, as I said, it depends on the type of filter you're using and the grade of carbon you're filling it with.

A good quality filter is well worth investing in. It is at least as important as the still you use so spend a few bob on a good one - it's for your spirits after all.

AM