How to Add Military to Spirit
Adding military to spirit, also known as "tempering" or "racking," is a technique used to enhance the proof and flavor of a distilled spirit. This process involves adding a small amount of neutral grain spirit (NGS) to the batch, which helps to settle the sediment and clarify the liquid. In this article, we will explore the ways to add military to spirit and provide a step-by-step guide on how to do it.
Understanding the Purpose of Military to Spirit
Before we dive into the process, it’s essential to understand why military to spirit is done. The primary purpose of adding military to spirit is to:
- Improve clarity: By introducing a small amount of neutral grain spirit, the impurities and sediment in the batch are diluted, making the spirit clearer and more visually appealing.
- Enhance flavor: Tempering the spirit can mellow out harsh flavors and aromas, resulting in a smoother and more pleasant taste experience.
- Increase proof: Adding neutral grain spirit can increase the proof of the spirit without affecting its flavor profile.
Methods for Adding Military to Spirit
There are several methods for adding military to spirit, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are a few common techniques:
Method 1: Dilution
- Purpose: To dilute the spirit to a desired proof while maintaining its flavor profile.
- Procedure:
- Measure the required amount of neutral grain spirit (NGS) using a hydrometer or a pipette.
- Add the NGS to the spirit in a designated container.
- Stir the mixture gently to combine.
- Allow the mixture to settle for several hours or overnight before racking.
Method 2: Racking with Neutral Grain Spirit
- Purpose: To add a small amount of NGS to the spirit during the racking process, which helps to clarify the liquid and settle the sediment.
- Procedure:
- Prepare the racking equipment, such as a racking can and a siphon.
- Measure the required amount of NGS using a hydrometer or a pipette.
- Add the NGS to the racking can.
- Siphon the spirit from the original container into the racking can, allowing the NGS to mix with the spirit.
- Transfer the mixture to the new container, leaving any sediment behind.
Tips and Considerations
Here are some important tips to keep in mind when adding military to spirit:
• Use the right proportion: The general rule of thumb is to add no more than 5% of the total volume as NGS. For example, if you’re making a 100-proof spirit, you would add a maximum of 5 grams of NGS per liter of spirit.
• Choose the right NGS: Select a high-proof NGS (at least 190 proof) that is free from flavor impurities and has a similar pH level to the spirit.
• Monitor the proof: Keep track of the proof of the spirit after adding the NGS to ensure it remains within the desired range.
• Consider the flavor profile: Tempering the spirit can affect its flavor profile. Be cautious when adjusting the proof, as over-dilution can lead to a loss of desired flavors.
Table: Comparison of Methods
| Method | Purpose | Proportion | Ease of Use | Flavor Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dilution | Dilute to desired proof | Varies | Easy | Mild |
| Racking with NGS | Clarify and settle sediment | Up to 5% | Moderate | Minimal |
Conclusion
Adding military to spirit is a crucial step in the distillation process that can enhance the flavor, clarity, and proof of the final product. By understanding the purpose of tempering and choosing the right method, you can achieve the desired results for your spirit. Remember to use the right proportion, choose the right NGS, and monitor the proof to ensure a high-quality final product. With practice and patience, you’ll be able to master the art of adding military to spirit and produce exceptional spirits.
