Hello All!
I just wanted to take a moment and introduce myself and to Thank You All for the great information I'm finding on here!
My friends call me C.J., I'm originally from a small rural town in WI, and hope to head back there soon (within the next two years) to begin my project.... although I'll be going back to a slightly larger town this time.
I joined this forum after getting the chance to speak with Bill Owens and being impressed at how knowledgeable and approachable he was.. he even sent me some great materials to my location overseas to help me out with my planning! I figured since he's such a stand-up guy, then I had to follow his recommendation of joining this forum. I'm really glad I did! I'm already finding a lot of answers to my questions, and of course finding out a ton more questions that I need to begin asking and researching.
My project in it's final form with be a Distillery/Brewery/Winery/ with a 60 acre Vineyard&Orchard with some rentals cabins. I know that this is going to be a complex undertaking, but I have it broken down into stages with the initial stage being the Distillery start-up and planting of the vines and fruit trees, followed by the outfitting of the brewery side, with the longer term term goal of establishment of the winery. This is going to be a family run project....I've already recruited two of my brothers and one of my sisters and soon perhaps a few other family members.
My current position in planning is determining the correct size for the distillery, size and type for the still or stills to purchase, with corresponding size equipment, tanks, ect, including outfitting for the brewery. I"m leaning towards following DryFly's path with a 450L still, but have been reading more about the efficiency of distillery operations utilizing two stills. My goal is to start purchasing the equipment this coming year. Any guidance, recommendations, or opinions on equipment layout and operations is always welcome.
I wish you all the best of luck with your endeavors! I look forward to reading about your thoughts, opinions, and experiences on here!
Regards,
C.J.