FrEwing

The second post was deleted - I lost the reply from the fellow who referred me to the Link to the page re: the allowable revisions of approved labels. Thanks for posting the following link and pointing to line 11 - Yes one can handwrite the Alc by Vol on the label. Allowable revisions to approved labels chart.pdf

Thanks - Sorry for the duplicate submission - I kept getting an error from the ADI Site when I clicked on " Post"

I recently came across a producer making liqueurs who writes in the ABV & Proof on each label. The labels have a blank space next to the ABV then writes the % in with a black marker. It seems to me an easier way to deal with different batches. When I was going thru the COLA process, I asked the TTB if I could have the labels approved with a blank space next to the ABV so I could write in the actual ABV of each batch and got no answer. Does anyone know if this handwriting the information on the label is in compliance with the TTB regulations?

I recently came across a distiller who is hand writing in the ABV and Proof on each label. They're a small operation and are probably finding it much easier produce different batches at the same proof level. When I was going thru the COLA process, I asked the TTB folks if I could have a label approved with a blank space on the label next to ABV so I could also write in the proof for each batch. I got no answer. Does anyone have an answer? Can I print my labels with blank spaces next to ABV and then write it in after I proof the batch? (and not run into a compliance problem with TTB?)

Clarifying the dues issue re: NABCA. I'm in Virginia and have to use a NABCA code on the cases sold to the VA ABC. NABCA will establish an NABCA case code for each of your products at a price of $75 each. Buy 1 or buy more it's $75 each and they do it in two days. Easy folks to work with as well. There is no requirement to join the organization. Hope this helps.

Crafters, I use 375ml Bordeau style bottles (bellissima - bar top) Do you stock 6 bottle cartons for this style bottle? (703) 408-2776 Dick Garofalo

Crafters, Yes I did find the capsules with the plain top for a bar top bottle. Brick Packaging carries them as a standard item in 1490 capsules per box. They also sell in larger quantities and price is appropriate to quantity purchased. Thank you Sailorman9

Thanks - Keeping the reference for future

Twardena, the water filters work just fine. Your choice of filter micron size is dependent on the size of the solids etc in the solution. You can purchase standard filters used in the brewery operation or very expensive specialty filters depending on how polished you want your product to be or what you find is the micron size that does the job. We've filtered at .5 microns with good success

Natrat, Id love to talk to you re liquid invert and sources' Dick G (703) 408-2776

One of the natural elements I use to flavor one of my products breaks down in the flavoring aging process to a talc like material which settles at the bottom of the tank. The particle size is around .5 microns. Its almost impossible to filter as a sludge. I am considering this waste. However, there is still lots of these fine particles suspended in the liqueur throughout the tank that I can filter. For now I'm only doing test batches of a few gallons and are filtering by hand. It is taking hours to filter and obviously not viable for production quantities of 50 plus gallon batches. Any one have any recommendations for a good pump and a filter combination I can use to get the job done? Thanks Dick G (703) 408-2776

Good information - I'm about to begin production In the next few weeks. Does any one have the telephone number for the folks at TTB I can call for forms assistance? Thanks Dick G

For all, sorry I hadn't replied to any of the above. I've been totally involved with getting licensed and my startup. I'm almost here and now waiting for my formulas to be reviewed and then my labels. The oxidation I have been speaking about is not in bottled product. It's in product that has been sitting in gallon jugs aging or waiting to be drunk. This was stuff I've made in very small batches over the years for personal consumption. Over time I expected some oxidation. Now, I'm concerned about production quantities and have recently been doing research to solve the problem once and for all in those flavors (particularly soft fruits) that I will consider making as we progress. I am considering Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) and other natural additives. thanks for your help

Hi Can you please send me the full details - I can be reached at (703) 408-2776 Thanks DIck

Welcome Monks, Gin is good. "Fr. Ewing"

Forgot to add that she's has 4-5 years experience as certified wine and spirits sales.

I have a friend and terrific sales gal available in the Phoenix area. She been doing wine and spirits tastings etc for some temp agencies and is looking for something more reliable, Anyone interested let me know and I'll have her make contact. Anyone can also call me (703) 408-2776 Dick Garofalo (FrEwing)

Thanks for the eyes up on that pump. The specs look good BUT that model is a bit more than I can handle at this time They quoted $848.

Thanks Jake, I'm not crazy about 70 proof leaks

Thanks all. I will stay away from Groundfos pumps. I have researched the Sandpiper Air-Double Diaphragm pumps and have found a few in the price range I can handle. The web site they were on is www.coleparmer.com Regarding plate filtration, I'm concerned about leakage as they do in the wine applications. Jake H, have you run into this problem?

I'm trying to set up my shop and need some recommendations for a pump and filter equipment. As one might expect - my finances are limited. Your ideas please.

Ballast., have you had any success with any capsule makers. I contacted the two above and was blown away with the minimum orders. I can buy a couple of stainless tanks for what they are asking. Any one know of any other sources. All I need is a standard 30mm diameter black capsule with a top that's not embossed with a grape cluster. Should be a stock item.

Jay, congratulations. Our DSP Permit issued was 06/17/2013 Submitted 03/10/2013 Waiting on VA for State Approval. Finally able to figure out - Formulas on Line - poor customer service assistance unlike that available at PONL. Hope you have a better experience.

I read in one submission that the problem associated with the Forum sending emails when a reply to a topic was posted, was fixed. I still am not getting these emails. That posting regarding the problem being fixed also mentioned he changed his setting s and was able to get the emails. How to change settings to permit this to happen?

Any suggestions on getting through the Formulas On Line step. They don't respond in the same way the PONL help line did.