Still Cleaning & Care
Introduction Course
Introduction Course
Not sure where to begin? We’ve created these free introductory videos to help get you started.
This short video will show you how to set up your still for the first time, and make sure it’s clean and ready to use. Learning how to set up the still, carry out the rye flour clean, and establishing methods for ongoing care and maintenance are important. Because when you have confidence in your set up, and good cleaning protocols in place, these things become second nature. It’s not complicated, but it’s important to get it right.
Find out about
- Setting up your still, pump and workspace
- How to do an initial rye flour clean.
- Setting up simple, ongoing cleaning protocols.
‘The types of copper alembic stills we’re working with are handmade in a small artisan factory on the outskirts of Porto in Portugal. We recommended an initial cleaning distillation using a slurry of rye flour and water, which has been the traditional method for centuries.’
– Jill Mulvaney, head instructor, The Alembics Lab
Meet your Instructor
Jill Mulvaney
Jill Mulvaney is one of New Zealand’s leading distillation experts. She consults and teaches on all aspects of plant extraction for natural aroma and flavour. She teaches hydrosol workshops throughout NZ and internationally, enjoying teaching partnerships with internationally renowned phytochemists and aromatic distillers in Europe and America. Jill’s practice is informed by decades of experience with plants, and a deep respect for the natural world.
Getting Started
To get you started we offer two free introductory courses. We’ll explain what you need, how to prepare your equipment and ingredients, as well as cleaning your still after use.
Related Courses
Distilling Hydrosol
Learn hydro-distillation, the basic technique that can turn your favourite plants into aromatic hydrosols.
Distilling Essential Oil
Discover the process of steam-distilling to produce high-quality essential oils.
Distilling Alcohol
A practical introduction to distilling spirits, including making cuts and calculating yields.
Need Help?
Check out our FAQs page for all your questions explained, or email us at [email protected]
