StillSmart

In several posts I read that the alcohol should "breathe". Preferably at the same time as oaking. I read that 6 weeks on oak with the lid on the jar slightly open is a good idea. But how much can you let it breathe before a significant part of the alcohol evaporates?

I can only express what I have found. It's not a big loss. In fact, I didn't detect a loss but it is a big gain In terms of flavour.

I have one of the 8 L Kilner jars with tap. Ideal for a oaking and the lid just catches so it open by about two or three mil.

..and SWMBO doesn't seem to mind it on the kitchen windowsill.

Thanks. I thought it would loose more. I remember keeping whisky on an old glass carafe. After a long time I'm pretty sure it lost some alcohol content, but then again, it might have been a long time. Maybe over a year.

Would you let "neutral" alcohol breathe as well or only when oaking?

This is MY OPINION.

Whether I Nuke stilled Whisky or age for a whole 3 months on a sunny window cill that cools at night, with a loose stopper.
I start with spirit at around 63% and finish with spirit around 55%.
Yes, I lose some volume.
But I gain something.

I also let my neutral breathe for as long as I can, before I need to re-use the glassware.
Angels are constantly dancing on my roof!

It is not a loss in alcohol, it is a gain in something else.

Robert.

The higher the ABV %, the more evaporation from the product breathing you will experience. I therefore bring down to 40% before letting it breath or ageing.

But, it is hot here.