A photograph of the two major components of this all-glass still is shown. On the left is the column packed with stainless steel filaments while on the right is the still-head with stream-splitter, draw-off needle-valve, and thermometer. The copper cooling coil is not shown in this photograph but can be seen in the enlargement of the still-head below. To join the still-head to the top of the column a 34/45 standard-taper joint is used. To join the bottom of the column to the top of the boiler a 50/30 glass ball-joint is used, the ball resting in a specially machined brass socket (which we supply). The advantage of this arrangement is that it provides excellent flexibility between the tall glass column and the heavy liquid-filled boiler on which it rests. A rigid connection would be liable to breakage if the column were jogged. The ball-and-socket joint also permits the column to be made vertical, even when the boiler is not quite level. The three ground-glass joints add to the cost but are necessary for an all-glass system. |
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The instruction manual not only describes how to assemble the still and mount it in a cabinet or with a bracket, but also provides information on how to make a crude beer (your source of alcohol) and then distil it in a 2-stage process to produce ultra-pure alcohol of 192 proof (96%). This, when diluted to 40% with water, is vodka. The same still can, of course, be used for spirits other than vodka. |
The still is made and shipped by a professional scientific glassblower in upstate New York. It is wrapped in bubble-wrap and packed in a 12" x 12" x 39" carton using foamed starch pellets. The price of the whole kit is US $395, with a further $30 for packaging and handling for a total of $425. The UPS charge is extra and will vary with distance but is typically less than $20 for the 48 mainland states. Make enquiries by e-mail to John Stone at pegasus@gin-vodka.com or by telephone at (450) 451-0644. Payment can be by credit card or personal check. A secure order form cannot be used for this purchase so please provide credit card information by telephone or ordinary mail. To avoid mistakes, please provide your exact mailing address by e-mail ---- so that we'll be sure to get it right. Home page |