How to choose a distilling apparatus

The boiler volume, heat source and column type are the deciding factors. A 30 or 50 l boiler covers common use, while the largest stainless steel apparatus has a 100 l boiler. A column with internal reflux and copper packing produces a purer distillate. The POT-STILL pot still preserves more aromatic substances and is designed for double distillation. A wide neck of 12 cm makes filling and cleaning the boiler easier.

Which version to choose

• Electric distillers have two heaters, 1500 W and 2000 W, and do not require gas. Edest SH978 and SH980 come with an automatic regulator with two probes.
• Distillers without a heat source do not have their own heating. Models with 50 and 100 l boilers are heated on a gas burner, while Moonshine sits on a 9.8 l pressure cooker.
• Distillation accessories include column packing and seals, a parrot with an alcoholometer, a temperature regulator, and a gas burner.

What the law says

Home production of alcohol is prohibited in the Czech Republic. Purchased equipment must be reported to the customs office according to the region where it is located. The legislation for home distilleries page summarises the permitted purposes: production of hydrolates, rendering of beeswax, water distillation, decorative purposes, and grower's distillation with permission from the Ministry of Agriculture.