​Thumper Kegs: To Thump or Not to Thump?

One of the most frequent questions we receive is about the necessity of a thumper keg for our stills. Let's dive in!

What's a Thumper Keg?

Traditionally, thumper kegs were used in hillbilly stills to increase alcohol content. They act as a secondary distillation chamber, collecting the initial distillate ("low wine"). As more vapor passes through this low wine, it heats up, leading to a stronger distillate (typically around 85%).

The Downside:

Thumper kegs can strip away some of the delicate flavors of your whiskey, especially in high-production settings.

Our Solution: The Onion-Head Design

Our stills feature a unique onion-head design that eliminates the need for a thumper keg entirely. This design ensures only pure vapor reaches the condenser, resulting in a high-quality distillate (around 70% ABV) without compromising flavor.

What about "Slobber Boxes"?

Slobber boxes, similar to thumper kegs, were used in traditional stills to collect sediment. However, they didn't involve the same vapor-heating process.

The Bottom Line:

Our stills, thanks to their innovative design, deliver exceptional results without the complexities of thumper kegs or slobber boxes. Enjoy a simpler distillation process and savor the rich flavors of your homemade spirits!

Cheers!