Mike@DIS

Unfortunately, that's not an easy question to answer. For anyone. There are hundreds of variables that are specific to your set up that will determine what you need and/or want.

Very nice. Love the square one and the one on the bottom is interesting as well. If you build them, they will sell.

Try SMB Machinery. They might have something used that could be of use to you.

Patience is the key

I do know that there is a "Chillin' and Disitllin' " class coming up in Novermber at Delalware Phoenix Distillery in Walton, NY. It's the week of Novermber 8th. I've heard some very good things about Cheryl. Where are you in New York?

I would say yes to all your options listed. Get as much info as possible whether from reading, visiting other distillers, going to classes, researching web sites (this forum is excellent, by the way) or any other way you can get yourself up to speed. THEN try the experimentation after you've been properly licensed. It takes time, patience, and determination, but it's also very fun and interesting. Good luck with your journey. Mike

Wlecome and good luck with your new facility. How close are you to Interstate 81? I go through there occasionally.

Ralph, Glad you're all OK. As the accepted leader of New York State craft distilling, the rest of us listen to what you have to say. Please keep us posted. Mike

I am currently looking for an opportunity to spend a week or two with an established craft distiller to get some hands-on practical experience. We are looking at opening our doors in the spring/summer of 2013 and while I have done a lot of research and reading, I would really appreciate the opportunity to shadow one of you who have been through the wilderness and are willing to share that experience. I'm willing to travel (almost) anywhere. Please feel free to contact me at youngma62@gmail.com if you would consider mentoring a newbie who would like to get started in the right direction. Thanks in advance. Mike

Good morning Salvage House! Please send me a link or catalog info via e-mail to youngma62@gmail.com Thanks! Mike

Has anyone ever tried using an Oxygen Concentrator? It's a machine that takes room air, purifies it, condenses it and delivers about 95% pure O2 at 4 lpm. You can get about 90% at 6 lpm. The initial investment is hgher (roughly $500.00 for an new unit), but saves you $$ in the long run and you don't have to worry about bottled O2 and the fire hazard they present. If you check with a local home health care company, they may even have used ones they will sell for $100 bucks or so. The only issue I can see with using this is the keeping the fine particulate filter clean.

Hi Mike, The North Country can be a bit harsh in the winter, but it's a beautiful area if you enjoy being outdoors and/or on the water the rest of the year. Thanks for the welcome!

Our plan is to start with Vodka/Gin and move into white Whiskey. We want a smooth product but would like to maintain some character. What are your preferences for finding that balance? This seems to be an area that has as many opinions a practitioners. Does this mean it's just a matter of trial and error? Thanks for any guidance you have to offer.

To chill or not to chill, that is my question. I have visited several craft distillers and some insist that chill filtering is a must, while others have told me that the quality of the filtration media is the real concern and don't bother chilling at all. I would appreciate any thoughts on this. Thanks in advance! Cheers!!

I'm Mike at Dark Island Spirits. We're starting a new distilling enterprise in the Thousand Islands region of New york State. I've found many of the postings on here very helpful as a newbie and hope to add to the information base for others in the future. Cheers!!