Hillman Bros. Distilling Co. embodies the essence of craftsmanship in the production of their artisan spirits. The meticulous process begins with the careful selection of high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients. This commitment to using the finest raw materials is fundamental, as it directly impacts the flavor and character of the final product. Each ingredient is chosen for its unique properties and its ability to contribute to the overall profile of the spirit.
Once the ingredients are selected, the distillers at Hillman Bros. employ traditional techniques that have been refined over generations. These methods, which include hand-mashing and slow fermentation, ensure that each batch is crafted with precision and care. The distillers’ expertise is evident in their attention to detail, from monitoring the temperature and pH levels to making adjustments as needed to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
The passion and dedication of Hillman Bros.’ distillers are key elements in the creation of their spirits. These artisans bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the process, and their commitment to their craft ensures a superior product. They understand that crafting artisan spirits is both an art and a science, requiring a delicate balance of skill and intuition.
The distillation process itself is a testament to Hillman Bros.’ dedication to quality. Using custom-designed copper stills, the distillers carefully control the temperature and pressure to extract the purest essence from the fermented mash. This process is repeated for each batch, ensuring consistency and excellence.
After distillation, the spirits are aged in carefully selected barrels, where they develop their unique characteristics over time. The final step is bottling, which is done by hand to ensure that each bottle meets the highest standards of quality. This attention to detail, from selecting raw materials to the final bottling, sets Hillman Bros. Distilling Co. apart from mass-produced spirits and highlights their commitment to the art of hand-crafting artisan spirits.
The significance of custom-built copper pot stills in the distillation process at Hillman Bros. Distilling Co. cannot be overstated. These meticulously crafted stills are designed and constructed with a keen attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of their design contributes to the enhancement of the flavor and quality of the spirits produced. The use of copper pot stills is a time-honored tradition in distillation, known for its ability to interact with alcohol on a molecular level, removing impurities and creating a smoother, richer taste.
The design of Hillman Bros.’ copper pot stills is tailored to optimize the distillation process. Each still is custom-built, taking into account the specific requirements of the spirits being produced. The copper material plays a crucial role in the distillation process; as the alcohol vapors pass through the still, the copper reacts with sulfur compounds and other impurities, effectively removing them from the final product. This interaction not only purifies the distillate but also imbues it with a distinctive richness and complexity that is characteristic of Hillman Bros.’ artisan spirits.
Craftsmanship is at the heart of the construction of these copper pot stills. Skilled artisans painstakingly shape and assemble each component, ensuring that the stills are not only functional but also works of art. This level of craftsmanship is evident in the unique character of the spirits produced. Master Distiller, John Hillman, shares, “The precision and care that go into building our pot stills are reflected in every bottle we produce. It’s a labor of love that translates into an unparalleled drinking experience.”
The use of traditional copper pot stills at Hillman Bros. Distilling Co. also presents its own set of challenges. Maintaining the integrity of the stills requires regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure they continue to function optimally. Despite these challenges, the distillers at Hillman Bros. are committed to preserving this artisanal approach, believing that the benefits far outweigh the difficulties. “There’s a certain magic in using these traditional methods,” says Hillman. “It’s about honoring the past while creating something truly exceptional for the future.”
