How do distilled spirits retain flavors from alcohol before distillation?

249 viewsChemistryOther

For example, I’ve heard bourbon is sweeter than other whiskies because it’s made from corn, rhum agricole is grassy because of sugarcane, and tequila is vegetal because of agave. What I understand is distillation concentrates alcohol because alcohol has a lower boiling point than water, so it’s heated and the vapor condenses on the other side. So how do flavors make it through? Also, aren’t sugars way bigger/heavier than alcohol and water? How do they make it all the way through?

In: Chemistry

11 Answers

Anonymous 0 Comments

Alcohol *and lots of other volatile molecules* have boiling points below that of water.

The volatiles come along for the ride, and many of them have distinct smells and tastes.

You are viewing 1 out of 11 answers, click here to view all answers.