DIY Liquor: Distill Your Own Alcohol
Monday, May 19th, 2008 running time 30:39
You don't need yards of copper pipe to make liquor. Julia Nolan, a chemical engineer, shows us how to distill alcohol the easy way.
Julia Nolan, an honest to goodness Chemical Engineer, joins us on this week's episode of Systm with an easy way to distill hard liquor.
Instead of building (or buying) a complicated still, made of copper and welded together, Julia has a super simple hack for a a standard countertop water distiller.
The end result? We distill some pretty powerful hooch from a batch of hard cider... made from apple juice concentrate! (You'll need a food grade bucket along with brewer's yeast to make the cider. (It's all about -not- making vinegar!)
Julia also walks us thru how she made the cider, where the alcohol comes from, how fermentation work and distillation work, and why you'll want to blend what you capture from the distiller.
And, yes, she talks about why you're not going to blind yourself on this project... and we remind you that distilling Alcohol isn't legal for US residents without the proper permit... tho DIY distilling, or, for the foodies, 'White Collar Moonshine' is growing in popularity in the US.
We'd like to thank Julia for taking time out of her busy schedule to join us with this project!
Highlights
Brad May
(
7:23, 7:23
)
temperature changes
(
18:39, 18:39
)
Darwin awards
(
28:49, 28:49
)
alcohol tobacco firearms
(
10:17, 10:17
)
Brad May
(
7:23, 7:23
)
temperature changes
(
18:39, 18:39
)
Darwin awards
(
28:49, 28:49
)
alcohol tobacco firearms
(
10:17, 10:17
)
Automatically Generated Transcript(may not be 100% accurate) ( more )
" There's a -- system has brought you by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Go to the outcome. And Netflix. Record our -- been around for along time but chances are you don't exactly know how distillation works today with the help of catalyst we hope to give you the inside scoop. -- how you can -- alcohol coming up on today's system. Well into the show I'm Patrick Norton did it. Be discovering the finer points of this feeling. Bureau of alcohol and home the moment knowledge of what would think tequila is vast and well full of love. My knowledge of how you get from the cat this. Do the bottle not so sharp so here to help us that is Juliet Nolan chemical engineer extraordinaire. Well in the show -- welcome -- excited. Oh very excited so you you and you had a great quote about the two reasons why everybody. Studies chemistry."
" Yet look at that study chemistry because -- look -- drag sometimes felt as though it's usually that thing. -- at least to combine them but at the same time but let's talk about what exactly is distillation. Com distillation of the process of taking any solution that some alcohol and it and predicting. One solution with a lot more alcohol in it and one more with a lot less alcohol."
" So we start out I guess who this kind of like the physical stuff that your distilling it and there's actually equipped that you distilled yet."
" that starting -- okay so far and a distillation process you start out with you know for the material that you're distilling you start out with some kind of alcoholics solution. Beer wine are very commonly used."
" Cactus and had big Cadillac had been paid a pretty much yeah I mean I -- thank you -- vegetable or fruit with sugar and has been used to -- I'll take the sugar or sometimes even -- and."
" We can carry it alcohol it's great I mean -- wonder about why so okay so we actually we have Burton would you hold a match of group what are the would you put -- your vegetables into a pot you -- when you take. -- depending on what you're making just some sort of sugary substance to put it into a pot. Aggies to keep air out and few weeks later you've got alcohol. It actually I think we're pretty good yeah we did did that this is this is the -- right here this is -- and it -- actually Apple's editor. Essentially -- we did it's put into standard which is Apple fighter like the kind that you by the storm had just that the concentration camp. Ideally you'd take concentrate without hope because focus its growth I mean who wants to pick. Apple out of your -- your -- flavor and not really not really. You know you don't need to until it and then you know feel that for a few weeks. It was I am actually pretty simple that's stupid little looking back on the top Doug a couple of different things. The first thing it does is it keeps the air out. If you let any air and you end up with vinegar or not Apple fighter which is really disgusting -- I mean no one wants to drink -- get wasted I think that it. And then it also feels that but then at the same time one of the byproduct of alcohol connection -- carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide to escape without making it blow up. The third thing Douglas and you see little bubble coming out of the top accounting it's gotten or rather when the bubbles come out and -- as a carbon that it is carbon map like that but what's that mean I now we're adding to the carbon content and our house that sequestration and now become looks like the back in the yes that's what I think it yet thought up with water that's just a bit of pressures of oxygen doesn't get through it only comes out. But I did not just seeing basically -- and this comes from principally company -- the tundra and my company again you can probably get -- other places but. There -- account from the other important consideration is just the -- south it's great polyethylene. If you get standard polyethylene the problem with that made with really heavy metal catalyst people unleash basically you're saying abuse around you'll. You'll have your liver your prayers will probably at the very least you've got something -- like you know Apple fighters don't."
" I -- this looks like the thing that joint compound comes in The Home Depot and even look like the home people bucket but let's hope people buy it says its food great it chances are you don't want to buy it through grade judging you -- to -- supermarket is about everything. In this market seems to come by -- who."
" That's true that's I mean again the advantage to getting a different supplies storage they tend to get a bit thicker material as violent it's really designed so that alcohol leaves things out of that. Some of the stuff in stores may not be so well designed for. Alcohol to a point -- heavy metal cap five gallon usually do it -- but yeah I mean it may be very good for gently -- but when you couldn't. Something like alcohol which is a bit more liquid it may have problems. So I guess the next thing would be a spill. Actually there's -- this morning with and that we've got the sugary liquid that you put -- but there's some difference and it would just make really that alcohol or to make that alcohol. Now I mean you put -- like art. Does that connects I mean they're the big difference between just accidentally leaving them let's say -- strawberry stopped and the refrigerator and then having an alcoholic at the end sort of Mesopotamia -- I mean long ago people would basically just leave -- Houston summit closed container -- is an environment would get -- and some of the time that alcohol. The time it got an air from the time to stop flight seeking purchase. Have to analyze them out you know if you we're Budweiser for and -- you be doing this on -- very carefully controlled environments and big stainless steel tank. You'd have different things added and to get a flavor you'd have the temperature controlled healthy east ground now we obviously can't go quite that far. But we can improve it bit by doing things such as again happening relatively high rate of material. Keeping era completely with a little stopper like -- top. And also by doing things like using a very clean fruit juice and we often want to out of -- because -- is much bigger is that watts and the more sugar you -- more alcoholic you got over yet substandard bridges may not really be up you know sugary enough to get a really really. -- alcohol."
" Would you like a few real fruit juice -- do we use corn syrup or more producer would you would you like this."
" Pile in the regular old white -- he's gonna I'm -- is more complicated pages. Especially rape cases basically pure sugar and water sell you know."
" Yeah I'm -- the children which are actually like 50% chords here seems."
" Corn circle workers I just -- and that's one if you wanted to get carbonated even out of it -- actor but he -- and bottles and -- pop open a bottle. They've added -- carbon dioxide from me -- and it could be you have to switch campaign I'll. At the other consideration to -- on adding sugar so that it really alcoholic. Is. -- the election. There are lots of different keys and you could certainly hope that you've got an ambient could be used -- everywhere in the world. To make an alcoholic. But -- You probably want to -- them just the executive at the store for making Brad May work but it kind of variable. So usually be that's stopped using -- east. This stuff happening here is what's called a heat to make about -- to -- alcohol before it gets. Up and dies. But elegant alcoholic keys is that if you're able to get that I've been -- that close at 20% awhile -- you get enough -- that was. Keep turning that into alcohol. So I mean if you wanted to be incredibly alcoholic and very Brian that are you could put in -- champagne -- and you'd be picking up stuff that you know like bleacher tongue without a lot more alcohol -- later alcohol."
" Before you but he writes in talking about the question of make jokes I've silver nineteen years so don't email me about -- because -- know how it works but."
" It's like this part I had that point you don't work this super you look at it how they make me import stuff -- matters I mean again kind of going to an alcohol supply store insane. I want something it will totally knocking out -- I want something with Jeff. It it will make a very drinkable slightly -- very different and it's basically this all goes and so the fruit -- the added sugar of the east. This opera they need this all goes in and you basically put -- warm -- place -- please hold my place not freezing so probably about 5560 Fahrenheit great I love that my kitchen what is probably more like 78. I mean it's pretty user friendly. It all depends on what you want to -- going to blow up for take -- the closet and net I mean it worth it happened to get an -- or it just happened for a."
" Would take a break them think one of our sponsors they're the people who help us bring it showed you this once great its National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Click it or ticket is that other call me an aggressive seat belt enforcement mobilization what does that mean they want -- wear a seatbelt. This is gonna run from may nineteenth through June 1 2008 all over the country. Thousands of enforcement agencies that would be the police in this these millions of people that are out there trying to protect you from yourself or participating in this campaign to increase seatbelt use -- reduce fatalities. The goal is really easy. Save more lives by convincing passengers and drivers. Day and night to always buckle up why try this on for size. 50% of those killed and auto accident we're not wearing seatbelts of the time the -- mean could be a coincidence could be a hard stat but there's a favor. But who would risk a ticket or worse your life always remember to click it or ticket. Day and night buckle up people we want you to keep -- insist. I don't see code violations. But good luck. What comes next."
" So what comes next so we want is still around."
" Only to open it up and get it out the -- of -- everything we've done is perfectly legal right up to this -- up to the point you're allowed to do this isn't that different supplies store will encourage you to you know act if you're outside the United States had no idea whether the next part is legal but the alcohol tobacco firearms crew frowned a little bit -- the next stage being done at home."
" So the next stage for going to he is -- big -- just watered it still are mad about stipulation and it. Now and it fits what you would is that how many if you -- content with what the coming out of the tap and didn't want to waste plastic and plastic bottles instead decided -- that still account that we see widget that you're you're not using this to distill water using it to distilled alcohol -- the case. But you know the basic process is very somewhere. Now we can also build one of these out of let's say just a big pot that we can completely clamp. Closed and then some kind of -- that we cool but fairly typical process -- the material from Baltimore expensive and spine. -- home distillation unit. Now -- a very simple when you all we have to do is really clean it out it finds -- great -- sixteen stainless steel. So and it's pretty good to -- as it is we can just you know basically seal it up. Plug it -- and it'll start selling but to get anything decent out of that it will take. A bit more effort. So normally this is boiling it was 212210. Degrees a lot of oil at about twelve. What outlook probably -- is well it depends on a percentage alcohol. Yeah the lowest percentage of what companies -- account which is a mixture of both alcohol and water. So -- in if you felt. It will ills that about 95% alcohol 5% water and I have -- lifted but my -- closer to maybe. At least about 165. Fahrenheit -- happens. I don't want you here so it's made by by real question was you have to modify this at all to use it for alcohol and that you know not really the only thing I had to do it if you open up the -- there's just a place for you put an apartment healthcare -- have been -- I had just popped that out -- Just remove the filter from the --"
" Okay so I guess what is it because when you look at a lot of the DIY stills people -- for comment on it's not quite develop in the Tennessee hills and in you know NASA's early days of NASCAR movies. So I mean but they talk about sort of adjusting the temperature and and to basically. 200 degrees for -- ago."
" Yeah I mean again -- matter what you do you going to get out about how elements which -- and there that aren't alcohol and the flavoring that now. Are gonna come -- first followed by the nearly pure alcohol followed by importantly it alcohol -- and water and at any point you can stop it and say that the department want to keep --"
" Okay I guess the big question is how to -- not make the bathtubs you -- that makes people blind."
" Possible that involves math on. So provided you've done for -- right and got ethanol rather than. You should be define it may taste bad but it won't make it line outside of and that does does those light on little -- outside of handily a couple of view of your mashed your little brother's -- is blind after breaking it as a way to test that. You know it's again it's something like to have basically perfect face and book you get a close it's done. You have -- you have he's the only thing it's gonna produce other than acknowledge possibly. -- But they are doing but as your eyeballs fall exactly. And you applicants -- to me it -- very easy test system. Vinegar okay illegal -- but but but but but I know that's not my contract look as good so. -- my -- what you that she's not gonna be like you're gonna make everybody -- and it makes you feel better already had a that it fits and it had a bit here and I can still the company I think ultimately four okay. And third you know having trouble."
" Recognizing the number fingers maybe you should stay clear so how long does it actually take once we -- this in there and it --"
" it -- patent tie it took me when I did previously when. I just isn't really that point. I'd hate it. Managed to get this potent could. -- kind of what about that five to seven that we've if LA well this is not like just hit the floor you guys on the with that sound is -- my provoked. Yeah the LU apparently campaign. What you did you know apparently you leave that there for a month and then just keep going to report -- And we're -- professional airport -- idea but it's definitely taking all of my professional ability. I think if you think that it."
" Not that that. What they go to our sponsors they help us keep bring in the showed you that would be go to -- dot com we want to remind our viewers to tune in the 500 broadcasts. Which is presented -- and -- that common data to Patrick. Well she's gonna be trying to win the -- 500 after winning the Japan 300 where she made. History with her first victory in the -- racing -- actually -- do it again. Indianapolis feature -- all the high speed action may 25 courtesy of godaddy.com. And of course if you want to make an impact on line. -- us a favor and you'll go any doubt comic dot com names of those a dollar and 99 cents plus world class -- fast and easy website builders and quite a bit more. You know what godaddy.com also makes it easy to customize your own virtual dedicated server when he gets geek on and really control your website. Got three popular plans and dislike your own Linux or windows server with all the options you need. Now if you enter in the -- 66. When you check out you'll -- an additional 20% off eating well over 24 -- that that's a pretty good deal -- they're pretty -- to begin with. Couple restrictions apply see the website for details do us a favor. Get a piece of the Internet into any dot com and use that codes to six when you do it to help us keep bringing the program you."
" And so what's going on inside this thing."
" Cable I mean quite a bit interesting that every person I'll have just on the exterior we've got the overhang which again is -- let's political era officially."
" Declared herself as an even bigger nerd that I am I just got excited about an old docudrama. Isn't really over it it's gonna fancy -- yeah I feel there like that cost."
" A couple edge that it is -- front but we just take -- basically the outer --"
" To get paid to. Did you originally pulled this open to remove the Terkel filter yes -- distillation what we did it have a trickle filter right hair. And a perfect -- a filter which I just. Broke open it. -- Like you know it some of that Apple juice taste which comes from the chemicals in the Apple -- We want to keep that around so that we can taste it and the full absorb them too so well that get just pure knowledge. You know ever parent water it's not common ground pepper trying to report that maybe that you would school. Obviously restaurants. He to basically that we -- it's a hot plate boiler kind of thing below -- what's horrible -- giant CPU heat. It that's actually very quick to edit this. We had -- if you look at right here hope that this is essentially -- go through here and that Apple's Apple up to these type. -- all the way to the outlook is right over here. And now what we have is that -- are a couple of times so that it can lose a lot of heat as -- little -- which are very similar to what -- computer. And here it says that they can against but the heat more evenly and get a -- that off as possible but we're gonna pull them up that the alcohol water can -- The fan -- for the same reason it just forces there there you yet now they just. Look there it's a bit like being an Apple say it keeps a lot cooler."
" So at this point lead to our -- starts to heat up. Stuff starts to come out as the mixture get sued it boils it basically different stuff boils at different temperatures is that -- and yet this action aimed --"
" And now it's a bit different needs enemies fox karma -- comedy he's the fashioning it you actually literally get. The bottom -- kept the same because you keep feeding material interest certain point temperature changes as you get higher power and get temperature gets lowered -- the column. And then you off signed up with different concentrations at each faction of the column. Then -- it just."
" popping it out again so that's not quite the -- so basically what we're getting sort of the similar effect of the column and that it has sort of a valve and 135 degrees and over 200 whatever you know insert. Degrees you probably speak centigrade or killed and in this case -- parent. Parallel -- I can use your eyes of the we're in this case actually instead of your column -- column is essentially this thing heating up it's that speeding out of and then there."
" And it has so we can I fractions with what we're gonna get out first that's. All of -- really easy stuff to get out. The pure alcohol they've -- style you know things now that those are coming out first and then if it goes on will be getting more water and there anything you can smell but they have a lower boiling temperature and the very bottom of getting water. So what we can't column as we get you know the different factions of the column but we'll see here is that we lose all of the stuff the beginning that. Royalties he out of step in the whales might have to have this vision of submission your the mud underneath."
" The the distillation unit waiting for the good stuff and how do you know how would you know I mean like studies come and you know when the good stuff is there when you guys who work at."
" I'm from what you watch I mean. There's there's no way to say for sure what you may decided I want the app that pure alcohol can get and the fact that boils at ease in which case the steps to get might start stripping it may be that good. Okay stupid question alcohol oils before water yes alcohol royalties -- act. I'm just and -- and give -- English major thing okay. And I mean but ultimately you might think you know that taped on the flavor components is really good the middle to be honest I don't want 95% alcohol I want more let's -- 50% alcohol thank you might decide the middle of the good part. So it's a little closer it is so yeah. Well I -- like let's say the best flavor -- come out the theory and it isn't. About I want to be an alcoholic and there's complete protection that I like -- in that case you might take all of a first step that you really loved all of the stuff at the and which are ultimately about. For all of the middle and its -- you like together and that they get -- land about this is where the art comes it is ready -- can."
" And I this vision of like okay so I've got a bunch of like half -- mason jars of examples examples examples and then basically you know -- case and then certain X --"
" Exactly gotten -- this is -- that tore apart and you just makes them until you get something you laugh. Cool was which we put this back together is tired of putting together and we'll get to watch."
" Apple -- Netflix sponsored movie pick of the week I sent the work rummaging your beloved producer because it's the eighth team -- prime time eighties classic television he'll be the group of four -- special forces man. On the run the United States government for crimes they did not commit. Between bouts of being chased by law enforcement across the country the group hires himself -- as mercenaries. To those who have the world to turn. Featuring way to really explosions car chases gun battles this fight and one heck of a custom -- provide you Caracas. Everyone's miraculously escapes unharmed no matter how big explosion or how terrible the mayhem. You highlight of course of each episode -- routine need to construct an overly elaborate device if you -- vehicle include Goldberg. To defeat the bad guys and say okay okay most of its Hollywood magic bullet with Hollywood bogus. But it's buying just the same in all five seasons are available for instant viewing. On the Netflix website that -- watch them on your computer no wait for the post show up. But you know used to favor if -- great movie rentals without driving the store check out Netflix dot com. 9000 title online include a Blu-ray titles you probably can't find your local video store. We think the problem that you look for plus forty shipping senator actually four times tends to be generous almost all delivery happening just one business plans -- dollars 99 cents when your system -- we got a -- Gloria. Go to www. Netflix dot com slash system. And get a free trial -- his favorite. Take care for sponsors for their help and possibly in the show he's."
" While waiting for the still use magic we're distillation unit. Which is kind of like watching grass grow warm -- going what if you go to -- basically. Run all the view that fuel the mash in there -- couple hours four hours eight hours. It in about three to four I mean I woke -- pressure until it's finished so what. He didn't even scored Cuba Jack. You go -- we have raspberry is in the -- Blackberry -- tell me you've never drank this."
" Not willingly -- college kids. But yet pretty bad. -- wine coolers and sensible. Thing to show that you know that you are really into keep going -- that you want that apparently into the courtroom you have to accept or you know possibly if I really want to fill something you know that's more. But I think in the back you can smash and it takes two weeks -- had a big party coming -- wanted to bring something. If you don't have two weeks he can't do the growing process you can still -- the deflation -- you know. Are you really have to do it take one of these open that. It just Portman and again it'll go -- about 6% it's really bad that's very flavored and adults though. -- could probably get 40% really badly flavored -- very friendly out of bed shuttle visit Ukraine like brandy you're you're not report for -- becomes a reminder. Tanzania through all of want going to -- sealed OK that's that smells them. Awful. Hit it it it it it it it it I can't play but the Apple -- actually smell better -- considerably."
" That's really scary stuff all right we will live longer in C. Where Apple comes."
" A lot of yeah."
" Okay so yeah I'll call him."
" I swear that it's not a the back you victory it. Not that much about them -- that you can happen but it hit the effort there to take that back to -- almost pure gold. Which means it's not okay maybe. There. This is what we call pure alcohol Apple fighter will not burn where this is again about 95% pure alcohol which is quite flammable. This is another reason we like this for it lets you sort. It's not likely to spontaneously have claimed by."
" Today we have our own little -- and --"
" Now it absolutely gorgeous. I like that -- about."
" Mormon thing and now."
" It's not it's not quite like the smell of baking bread does its distinctive scent in here yes there is there and -- anyone -- that alcohol allergies has got to be in pain now cut it to a little lose the agents in the same room of that. No wonder you're so excited so. So the first ever comes that is that going to be the purest alcohol that will be appearance for the separate just look on fire with -- and -- that goes out and it'll get more and more -- until we're basically only take him water it's basically keep their testing school nearby. Yet you protesting the nearby again my theory. Scientific and rigorous -- is just to taste it because. What most marginally alcoholic people like -- yeah about strong person at a breakfast. -- it works pretty well and again you know kind of what -- going to different classes so we can try them individually Nixon later."
" So we get us out of justice they've ordered this great hey. Yeah -- that differs not a snort as -- word."
" But I can never do it."
" There's little a fatalistic. Who. You'll have to during the whole thing you know you think a little football."
" Yeah it's worth. It is not bad. Very -- and -- Apple having to -- about it but as as we get sort of further along in the distillation will be more. Go to for McCain to babble to sort of big club of Apple."
" It's hard to tell it depends again on. How easy it it's just so -- different flavors and Apple. Yeah I think we should get Apple -- We've had pointed out kind of the beginning and that they'll they'll be different flavors and different types of Apple slippers to that this. Some of the things that make an Apple it's Apple are very light calmer happier and it's a bit different. Distillation -- different ones."
" That we pointed out obviously. This will burn especially in the early days and so you don't want to be smoking cigarettes or you're working in the kitchen maybe with an open flame. -- practically feeling a contact high at this point from the vapors coming off this so good revelation is probably good idea any other sort of safety factors on this I think he sealed containers that --"
" And that's great I mean opened last should be okay again you know try to stay in the same room with that. And then again and that that is closed minded 5% alcoholic so it just a little bit of that is enough to really hurt you could yeah. You know don't don't take like this entire classes target because -- You know you're getting equivalent of -- we got -- fighter and."
" Big laugh a glass of beer glass of wine a shot of alcohol and with a coverage out of alcohol the target -- EVE 86 proof this is more like a 190 for a this will at this point. -- you off don't be all I can drink a shot of tequila and don't -- this will knock you on your -- in if you dive alcohol poisoning will be sad. But we will -- is a horrible active. Like if the Darwin awards can't get the federal courts candidate it's about -- I mean again the main things are this is flammable -- And remember to lend lend to people -- what you're capable of more playable in most likely to kill you if you try to shut me."
" I think mixed you know abroad tablet again it's probably tastes very close to with Apple's use of Poland's I'm sure this would be very fitting mini could have. Apple juice distilled Apple fighter adventure would be complementary I had the German government and -- kids it's a little call aggressive."
" The polish version -- to the polls have many ways of spending a long winter night."
" Intoxicated you can."
" Philadelphia supposed to do and the winner."
" Julie we come back into the other side project hello -- another idea I live out to. I'd love to have to ought to make when he would you blow something up and exceed four I have lining up -- fun."
" A problem that."
" I since may have we -- regularly taking time out of her busy schedule comin'. And teach you -- me how to distill alcohol and as always if you have ideas or questions or suggestions about system newspapers -- this email. System Activision three dot com and remember. The forums are waiting for you committed talk and argue and fight especially over that Netflix movie you know week or in this case television series -- dot com slash forums. Well thank you watch it -- that I'm Patrick Norton you've been watching assistant Julie's house -- like thank you. --"
" that -- that. I think it's."
" Yeah. I'd ask them. --"
" There's a -- system has brought you by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Go to the outcome. And Netflix. Record our -- been around for along time but chances are you don't exactly know how distillation works today with the help of catalyst we hope to give you the inside scoop. -- how you can -- alcohol coming up on today's system. Well into the show I'm Patrick Norton did it. Be discovering the finer points of this feeling. Bureau of alcohol and home the moment knowledge of what would think tequila is vast and well full of love. My knowledge of how you get from the cat this. Do the bottle not so sharp so here to help us that is Juliet Nolan chemical engineer extraordinaire. Well in the show -- welcome -- excited. Oh very excited so you you and you had a great quote about the two reasons why everybody. Studies chemistry."
" Yet look at that study chemistry because -- look -- drag sometimes felt as though it's usually that thing. -- at least to combine them but at the same time but let's talk about what exactly is distillation. Com distillation of the process of taking any solution that some alcohol and it and predicting. One solution with a lot more alcohol in it and one more with a lot less alcohol."
" So we start out I guess who this kind of like the physical stuff that your distilling it and there's actually equipped that you distilled yet."
" that starting -- okay so far and a distillation process you start out with you know for the material that you're distilling you start out with some kind of alcoholics solution. Beer wine are very commonly used."
" Cactus and had big Cadillac had been paid a pretty much yeah I mean I -- thank you -- vegetable or fruit with sugar and has been used to -- I'll take the sugar or sometimes even -- and."
" We can carry it alcohol it's great I mean -- wonder about why so okay so we actually we have Burton would you hold a match of group what are the would you put -- your vegetables into a pot you -- when you take. -- depending on what you're making just some sort of sugary substance to put it into a pot. Aggies to keep air out and few weeks later you've got alcohol. It actually I think we're pretty good yeah we did did that this is this is the -- right here this is -- and it -- actually Apple's editor. Essentially -- we did it's put into standard which is Apple fighter like the kind that you by the storm had just that the concentration camp. Ideally you'd take concentrate without hope because focus its growth I mean who wants to pick. Apple out of your -- your -- flavor and not really not really. You know you don't need to until it and then you know feel that for a few weeks. It was I am actually pretty simple that's stupid little looking back on the top Doug a couple of different things. The first thing it does is it keeps the air out. If you let any air and you end up with vinegar or not Apple fighter which is really disgusting -- I mean no one wants to drink -- get wasted I think that it. And then it also feels that but then at the same time one of the byproduct of alcohol connection -- carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide to escape without making it blow up. The third thing Douglas and you see little bubble coming out of the top accounting it's gotten or rather when the bubbles come out and -- as a carbon that it is carbon map like that but what's that mean I now we're adding to the carbon content and our house that sequestration and now become looks like the back in the yes that's what I think it yet thought up with water that's just a bit of pressures of oxygen doesn't get through it only comes out. But I did not just seeing basically -- and this comes from principally company -- the tundra and my company again you can probably get -- other places but. There -- account from the other important consideration is just the -- south it's great polyethylene. If you get standard polyethylene the problem with that made with really heavy metal catalyst people unleash basically you're saying abuse around you'll. You'll have your liver your prayers will probably at the very least you've got something -- like you know Apple fighters don't."
" I -- this looks like the thing that joint compound comes in The Home Depot and even look like the home people bucket but let's hope people buy it says its food great it chances are you don't want to buy it through grade judging you -- to -- supermarket is about everything. In this market seems to come by -- who."
" That's true that's I mean again the advantage to getting a different supplies storage they tend to get a bit thicker material as violent it's really designed so that alcohol leaves things out of that. Some of the stuff in stores may not be so well designed for. Alcohol to a point -- heavy metal cap five gallon usually do it -- but yeah I mean it may be very good for gently -- but when you couldn't. Something like alcohol which is a bit more liquid it may have problems. So I guess the next thing would be a spill. Actually there's -- this morning with and that we've got the sugary liquid that you put -- but there's some difference and it would just make really that alcohol or to make that alcohol. Now I mean you put -- like art. Does that connects I mean they're the big difference between just accidentally leaving them let's say -- strawberry stopped and the refrigerator and then having an alcoholic at the end sort of Mesopotamia -- I mean long ago people would basically just leave -- Houston summit closed container -- is an environment would get -- and some of the time that alcohol. The time it got an air from the time to stop flight seeking purchase. Have to analyze them out you know if you we're Budweiser for and -- you be doing this on -- very carefully controlled environments and big stainless steel tank. You'd have different things added and to get a flavor you'd have the temperature controlled healthy east ground now we obviously can't go quite that far. But we can improve it bit by doing things such as again happening relatively high rate of material. Keeping era completely with a little stopper like -- top. And also by doing things like using a very clean fruit juice and we often want to out of -- because -- is much bigger is that watts and the more sugar you -- more alcoholic you got over yet substandard bridges may not really be up you know sugary enough to get a really really. -- alcohol."
" Would you like a few real fruit juice -- do we use corn syrup or more producer would you would you like this."
" Pile in the regular old white -- he's gonna I'm -- is more complicated pages. Especially rape cases basically pure sugar and water sell you know."
" Yeah I'm -- the children which are actually like 50% chords here seems."
" Corn circle workers I just -- and that's one if you wanted to get carbonated even out of it -- actor but he -- and bottles and -- pop open a bottle. They've added -- carbon dioxide from me -- and it could be you have to switch campaign I'll. At the other consideration to -- on adding sugar so that it really alcoholic. Is. -- the election. There are lots of different keys and you could certainly hope that you've got an ambient could be used -- everywhere in the world. To make an alcoholic. But -- You probably want to -- them just the executive at the store for making Brad May work but it kind of variable. So usually be that's stopped using -- east. This stuff happening here is what's called a heat to make about -- to -- alcohol before it gets. Up and dies. But elegant alcoholic keys is that if you're able to get that I've been -- that close at 20% awhile -- you get enough -- that was. Keep turning that into alcohol. So I mean if you wanted to be incredibly alcoholic and very Brian that are you could put in -- champagne -- and you'd be picking up stuff that you know like bleacher tongue without a lot more alcohol -- later alcohol."
" Before you but he writes in talking about the question of make jokes I've silver nineteen years so don't email me about -- because -- know how it works but."
" It's like this part I had that point you don't work this super you look at it how they make me import stuff -- matters I mean again kind of going to an alcohol supply store insane. I want something it will totally knocking out -- I want something with Jeff. It it will make a very drinkable slightly -- very different and it's basically this all goes and so the fruit -- the added sugar of the east. This opera they need this all goes in and you basically put -- warm -- place -- please hold my place not freezing so probably about 5560 Fahrenheit great I love that my kitchen what is probably more like 78. I mean it's pretty user friendly. It all depends on what you want to -- going to blow up for take -- the closet and net I mean it worth it happened to get an -- or it just happened for a."
" Would take a break them think one of our sponsors they're the people who help us bring it showed you this once great its National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Click it or ticket is that other call me an aggressive seat belt enforcement mobilization what does that mean they want -- wear a seatbelt. This is gonna run from may nineteenth through June 1 2008 all over the country. Thousands of enforcement agencies that would be the police in this these millions of people that are out there trying to protect you from yourself or participating in this campaign to increase seatbelt use -- reduce fatalities. The goal is really easy. Save more lives by convincing passengers and drivers. Day and night to always buckle up why try this on for size. 50% of those killed and auto accident we're not wearing seatbelts of the time the -- mean could be a coincidence could be a hard stat but there's a favor. But who would risk a ticket or worse your life always remember to click it or ticket. Day and night buckle up people we want you to keep -- insist. I don't see code violations. But good luck. What comes next."
" So what comes next so we want is still around."
" Only to open it up and get it out the -- of -- everything we've done is perfectly legal right up to this -- up to the point you're allowed to do this isn't that different supplies store will encourage you to you know act if you're outside the United States had no idea whether the next part is legal but the alcohol tobacco firearms crew frowned a little bit -- the next stage being done at home."
" So the next stage for going to he is -- big -- just watered it still are mad about stipulation and it. Now and it fits what you would is that how many if you -- content with what the coming out of the tap and didn't want to waste plastic and plastic bottles instead decided -- that still account that we see widget that you're you're not using this to distill water using it to distilled alcohol -- the case. But you know the basic process is very somewhere. Now we can also build one of these out of let's say just a big pot that we can completely clamp. Closed and then some kind of -- that we cool but fairly typical process -- the material from Baltimore expensive and spine. -- home distillation unit. Now -- a very simple when you all we have to do is really clean it out it finds -- great -- sixteen stainless steel. So and it's pretty good to -- as it is we can just you know basically seal it up. Plug it -- and it'll start selling but to get anything decent out of that it will take. A bit more effort. So normally this is boiling it was 212210. Degrees a lot of oil at about twelve. What outlook probably -- is well it depends on a percentage alcohol. Yeah the lowest percentage of what companies -- account which is a mixture of both alcohol and water. So -- in if you felt. It will ills that about 95% alcohol 5% water and I have -- lifted but my -- closer to maybe. At least about 165. Fahrenheit -- happens. I don't want you here so it's made by by real question was you have to modify this at all to use it for alcohol and that you know not really the only thing I had to do it if you open up the -- there's just a place for you put an apartment healthcare -- have been -- I had just popped that out -- Just remove the filter from the --"
" Okay so I guess what is it because when you look at a lot of the DIY stills people -- for comment on it's not quite develop in the Tennessee hills and in you know NASA's early days of NASCAR movies. So I mean but they talk about sort of adjusting the temperature and and to basically. 200 degrees for -- ago."
" Yeah I mean again -- matter what you do you going to get out about how elements which -- and there that aren't alcohol and the flavoring that now. Are gonna come -- first followed by the nearly pure alcohol followed by importantly it alcohol -- and water and at any point you can stop it and say that the department want to keep --"
" Okay I guess the big question is how to -- not make the bathtubs you -- that makes people blind."
" Possible that involves math on. So provided you've done for -- right and got ethanol rather than. You should be define it may taste bad but it won't make it line outside of and that does does those light on little -- outside of handily a couple of view of your mashed your little brother's -- is blind after breaking it as a way to test that. You know it's again it's something like to have basically perfect face and book you get a close it's done. You have -- you have he's the only thing it's gonna produce other than acknowledge possibly. -- But they are doing but as your eyeballs fall exactly. And you applicants -- to me it -- very easy test system. Vinegar okay illegal -- but but but but but I know that's not my contract look as good so. -- my -- what you that she's not gonna be like you're gonna make everybody -- and it makes you feel better already had a that it fits and it had a bit here and I can still the company I think ultimately four okay. And third you know having trouble."
" Recognizing the number fingers maybe you should stay clear so how long does it actually take once we -- this in there and it --"
" it -- patent tie it took me when I did previously when. I just isn't really that point. I'd hate it. Managed to get this potent could. -- kind of what about that five to seven that we've if LA well this is not like just hit the floor you guys on the with that sound is -- my provoked. Yeah the LU apparently campaign. What you did you know apparently you leave that there for a month and then just keep going to report -- And we're -- professional airport -- idea but it's definitely taking all of my professional ability. I think if you think that it."
" Not that that. What they go to our sponsors they help us keep bring in the showed you that would be go to -- dot com we want to remind our viewers to tune in the 500 broadcasts. Which is presented -- and -- that common data to Patrick. Well she's gonna be trying to win the -- 500 after winning the Japan 300 where she made. History with her first victory in the -- racing -- actually -- do it again. Indianapolis feature -- all the high speed action may 25 courtesy of godaddy.com. And of course if you want to make an impact on line. -- us a favor and you'll go any doubt comic dot com names of those a dollar and 99 cents plus world class -- fast and easy website builders and quite a bit more. You know what godaddy.com also makes it easy to customize your own virtual dedicated server when he gets geek on and really control your website. Got three popular plans and dislike your own Linux or windows server with all the options you need. Now if you enter in the -- 66. When you check out you'll -- an additional 20% off eating well over 24 -- that that's a pretty good deal -- they're pretty -- to begin with. Couple restrictions apply see the website for details do us a favor. Get a piece of the Internet into any dot com and use that codes to six when you do it to help us keep bringing the program you."
" And so what's going on inside this thing."
" Cable I mean quite a bit interesting that every person I'll have just on the exterior we've got the overhang which again is -- let's political era officially."
" Declared herself as an even bigger nerd that I am I just got excited about an old docudrama. Isn't really over it it's gonna fancy -- yeah I feel there like that cost."
" A couple edge that it is -- front but we just take -- basically the outer --"
" To get paid to. Did you originally pulled this open to remove the Terkel filter yes -- distillation what we did it have a trickle filter right hair. And a perfect -- a filter which I just. Broke open it. -- Like you know it some of that Apple juice taste which comes from the chemicals in the Apple -- We want to keep that around so that we can taste it and the full absorb them too so well that get just pure knowledge. You know ever parent water it's not common ground pepper trying to report that maybe that you would school. Obviously restaurants. He to basically that we -- it's a hot plate boiler kind of thing below -- what's horrible -- giant CPU heat. It that's actually very quick to edit this. We had -- if you look at right here hope that this is essentially -- go through here and that Apple's Apple up to these type. -- all the way to the outlook is right over here. And now what we have is that -- are a couple of times so that it can lose a lot of heat as -- little -- which are very similar to what -- computer. And here it says that they can against but the heat more evenly and get a -- that off as possible but we're gonna pull them up that the alcohol water can -- The fan -- for the same reason it just forces there there you yet now they just. Look there it's a bit like being an Apple say it keeps a lot cooler."
" So at this point lead to our -- starts to heat up. Stuff starts to come out as the mixture get sued it boils it basically different stuff boils at different temperatures is that -- and yet this action aimed --"
" And now it's a bit different needs enemies fox karma -- comedy he's the fashioning it you actually literally get. The bottom -- kept the same because you keep feeding material interest certain point temperature changes as you get higher power and get temperature gets lowered -- the column. And then you off signed up with different concentrations at each faction of the column. Then -- it just."
" popping it out again so that's not quite the -- so basically what we're getting sort of the similar effect of the column and that it has sort of a valve and 135 degrees and over 200 whatever you know insert. Degrees you probably speak centigrade or killed and in this case -- parent. Parallel -- I can use your eyes of the we're in this case actually instead of your column -- column is essentially this thing heating up it's that speeding out of and then there."
" And it has so we can I fractions with what we're gonna get out first that's. All of -- really easy stuff to get out. The pure alcohol they've -- style you know things now that those are coming out first and then if it goes on will be getting more water and there anything you can smell but they have a lower boiling temperature and the very bottom of getting water. So what we can't column as we get you know the different factions of the column but we'll see here is that we lose all of the stuff the beginning that. Royalties he out of step in the whales might have to have this vision of submission your the mud underneath."
" The the distillation unit waiting for the good stuff and how do you know how would you know I mean like studies come and you know when the good stuff is there when you guys who work at."
" I'm from what you watch I mean. There's there's no way to say for sure what you may decided I want the app that pure alcohol can get and the fact that boils at ease in which case the steps to get might start stripping it may be that good. Okay stupid question alcohol oils before water yes alcohol royalties -- act. I'm just and -- and give -- English major thing okay. And I mean but ultimately you might think you know that taped on the flavor components is really good the middle to be honest I don't want 95% alcohol I want more let's -- 50% alcohol thank you might decide the middle of the good part. So it's a little closer it is so yeah. Well I -- like let's say the best flavor -- come out the theory and it isn't. About I want to be an alcoholic and there's complete protection that I like -- in that case you might take all of a first step that you really loved all of the stuff at the and which are ultimately about. For all of the middle and its -- you like together and that they get -- land about this is where the art comes it is ready -- can."
" And I this vision of like okay so I've got a bunch of like half -- mason jars of examples examples examples and then basically you know -- case and then certain X --"
" Exactly gotten -- this is -- that tore apart and you just makes them until you get something you laugh. Cool was which we put this back together is tired of putting together and we'll get to watch."
" Apple -- Netflix sponsored movie pick of the week I sent the work rummaging your beloved producer because it's the eighth team -- prime time eighties classic television he'll be the group of four -- special forces man. On the run the United States government for crimes they did not commit. Between bouts of being chased by law enforcement across the country the group hires himself -- as mercenaries. To those who have the world to turn. Featuring way to really explosions car chases gun battles this fight and one heck of a custom -- provide you Caracas. Everyone's miraculously escapes unharmed no matter how big explosion or how terrible the mayhem. You highlight of course of each episode -- routine need to construct an overly elaborate device if you -- vehicle include Goldberg. To defeat the bad guys and say okay okay most of its Hollywood magic bullet with Hollywood bogus. But it's buying just the same in all five seasons are available for instant viewing. On the Netflix website that -- watch them on your computer no wait for the post show up. But you know used to favor if -- great movie rentals without driving the store check out Netflix dot com. 9000 title online include a Blu-ray titles you probably can't find your local video store. We think the problem that you look for plus forty shipping senator actually four times tends to be generous almost all delivery happening just one business plans -- dollars 99 cents when your system -- we got a -- Gloria. Go to www. Netflix dot com slash system. And get a free trial -- his favorite. Take care for sponsors for their help and possibly in the show he's."
" While waiting for the still use magic we're distillation unit. Which is kind of like watching grass grow warm -- going what if you go to -- basically. Run all the view that fuel the mash in there -- couple hours four hours eight hours. It in about three to four I mean I woke -- pressure until it's finished so what. He didn't even scored Cuba Jack. You go -- we have raspberry is in the -- Blackberry -- tell me you've never drank this."
" Not willingly -- college kids. But yet pretty bad. -- wine coolers and sensible. Thing to show that you know that you are really into keep going -- that you want that apparently into the courtroom you have to accept or you know possibly if I really want to fill something you know that's more. But I think in the back you can smash and it takes two weeks -- had a big party coming -- wanted to bring something. If you don't have two weeks he can't do the growing process you can still -- the deflation -- you know. Are you really have to do it take one of these open that. It just Portman and again it'll go -- about 6% it's really bad that's very flavored and adults though. -- could probably get 40% really badly flavored -- very friendly out of bed shuttle visit Ukraine like brandy you're you're not report for -- becomes a reminder. Tanzania through all of want going to -- sealed OK that's that smells them. Awful. Hit it it it it it it it it I can't play but the Apple -- actually smell better -- considerably."
" That's really scary stuff all right we will live longer in C. Where Apple comes."
" A lot of yeah."
" Okay so yeah I'll call him."
" I swear that it's not a the back you victory it. Not that much about them -- that you can happen but it hit the effort there to take that back to -- almost pure gold. Which means it's not okay maybe. There. This is what we call pure alcohol Apple fighter will not burn where this is again about 95% pure alcohol which is quite flammable. This is another reason we like this for it lets you sort. It's not likely to spontaneously have claimed by."
" Today we have our own little -- and --"
" Now it absolutely gorgeous. I like that -- about."
" Mormon thing and now."
" It's not it's not quite like the smell of baking bread does its distinctive scent in here yes there is there and -- anyone -- that alcohol allergies has got to be in pain now cut it to a little lose the agents in the same room of that. No wonder you're so excited so. So the first ever comes that is that going to be the purest alcohol that will be appearance for the separate just look on fire with -- and -- that goes out and it'll get more and more -- until we're basically only take him water it's basically keep their testing school nearby. Yet you protesting the nearby again my theory. Scientific and rigorous -- is just to taste it because. What most marginally alcoholic people like -- yeah about strong person at a breakfast. -- it works pretty well and again you know kind of what -- going to different classes so we can try them individually Nixon later."
" So we get us out of justice they've ordered this great hey. Yeah -- that differs not a snort as -- word."
" But I can never do it."
" There's little a fatalistic. Who. You'll have to during the whole thing you know you think a little football."
" Yeah it's worth. It is not bad. Very -- and -- Apple having to -- about it but as as we get sort of further along in the distillation will be more. Go to for McCain to babble to sort of big club of Apple."
" It's hard to tell it depends again on. How easy it it's just so -- different flavors and Apple. Yeah I think we should get Apple -- We've had pointed out kind of the beginning and that they'll they'll be different flavors and different types of Apple slippers to that this. Some of the things that make an Apple it's Apple are very light calmer happier and it's a bit different. Distillation -- different ones."
" That we pointed out obviously. This will burn especially in the early days and so you don't want to be smoking cigarettes or you're working in the kitchen maybe with an open flame. -- practically feeling a contact high at this point from the vapors coming off this so good revelation is probably good idea any other sort of safety factors on this I think he sealed containers that --"
" And that's great I mean opened last should be okay again you know try to stay in the same room with that. And then again and that that is closed minded 5% alcoholic so it just a little bit of that is enough to really hurt you could yeah. You know don't don't take like this entire classes target because -- You know you're getting equivalent of -- we got -- fighter and."
" Big laugh a glass of beer glass of wine a shot of alcohol and with a coverage out of alcohol the target -- EVE 86 proof this is more like a 190 for a this will at this point. -- you off don't be all I can drink a shot of tequila and don't -- this will knock you on your -- in if you dive alcohol poisoning will be sad. But we will -- is a horrible active. Like if the Darwin awards can't get the federal courts candidate it's about -- I mean again the main things are this is flammable -- And remember to lend lend to people -- what you're capable of more playable in most likely to kill you if you try to shut me."
" I think mixed you know abroad tablet again it's probably tastes very close to with Apple's use of Poland's I'm sure this would be very fitting mini could have. Apple juice distilled Apple fighter adventure would be complementary I had the German government and -- kids it's a little call aggressive."
" The polish version -- to the polls have many ways of spending a long winter night."
" Intoxicated you can."
" Philadelphia supposed to do and the winner."
" Julie we come back into the other side project hello -- another idea I live out to. I'd love to have to ought to make when he would you blow something up and exceed four I have lining up -- fun."
" A problem that."
" I since may have we -- regularly taking time out of her busy schedule comin'. And teach you -- me how to distill alcohol and as always if you have ideas or questions or suggestions about system newspapers -- this email. System Activision three dot com and remember. The forums are waiting for you committed talk and argue and fight especially over that Netflix movie you know week or in this case television series -- dot com slash forums. Well thank you watch it -- that I'm Patrick Norton you've been watching assistant Julie's house -- like thank you. --"
" that -- that. I think it's."
" Yeah. I'd ask them. --"
travislopes
Started discussion: May 19, 2008 @ 3:55pm GMT
Episode 51 - DIY Liquor: Distill Your Own Alcohol [Discussion]
You don't need yards of copper pipe to make liquor. Julia Nolan, a chemical engineer, shows us how to distill alcohol the easy way.
Watch and download the episode here.
majikstreet
about 1 year ago
yes, please get Julia back for an episode where you guys explode stuff. explosions are quite, quite awesome
nextgenxbox
about 1 year ago
Hmm, sounds like an interesting episode. Can't wait to watch it tonight when I get home.
xibalba
about 1 year ago
If one shot of Everclear knocks ya on your ass I say there is something wrong with you. It takes 4 shots to mess me big time.
Shinku
about 1 year ago
Despite the relative simple theory in distillation that was a pretty fun episode, helped no doubt by Julia's presence (she's great, hope to see her back again soon) and Patrick's sense of humour.
Loved the episode, more of the same please!
Loved the episode, more of the same please!
tempesta
about 1 year ago
interesting stuff.
as for other country's policies on distilling... in australia i'm pretty sure you can own certain elements of the gear...if not all of it....but actually distilling some spirits is illegal...cider may fall in a grey area...or be lumped in with beer, with its fine to brew.
as for other country's policies on distilling... in australia i'm pretty sure you can own certain elements of the gear...if not all of it....but actually distilling some spirits is illegal...cider may fall in a grey area...or be lumped in with beer, with its fine to brew.











-chuckles-