Crafting a Delightful Alcoholic Beverage: Steps and Considerations

In the world of craft mixology, creating a special alcoholic beverage can be both an art and a science. This article explores the process of making a unique mixture using absolute alcohol, cherries, mint, and water while providing essential safety concerns and practical tips.

Introduction to Absolute Alcohol and Its Use

Many enthusiasts and hobbyists are curious about using absolute alcohol (99.8%) to create unique and potent beverages. However, it is crucial to understand the limitations and dangers associated with this practice. Absolute alcohol is highly hygroscopic and prone to absorbing water from the air, which can affect its potency and safety. To avoid these issues, it is often suggested to use Everclear, which is highly potent but benzene-free.

The Process of Making an Alcoholic Beverage with Absolute Alcohol

To create a beverage using absolute alcohol, follow these steps:

Find a supplier in your area who sells absolute alcohol. Offer to purchase it at a good price. Use the proceeds to buy Everclear, which is benzene-free and highly potent. Everclear is often used as a substitute for absolute alcohol due to its safety and stability.

Negotiate and establish a reliable relationship with a supplier who provides absolute alcohol. Ensure that they are reputable and offer a consistent supply to avoid interruptions in your crafting process.

When using absolute alcohol, it is essential to dilute it promptly. This is because absolute alcohol is highly hygroscopic and will absorb water from the atmosphere every time it is opened. Dilution helps prevent this absorption and ensures a consistent ABV (alcohol by volume).

Combine the diluted alcohol with the desired fruits, such as cherries, and flavors like mint. This mixture can then be infused with water to create a delicious and potent alcoholic beverage. Allow the mixture to sit for at least a week at room temperature, covered loosely, to ensure that the flavors and alcohol fully integrate.

Use a hydrometer to regularly check the ABV of the mixture, as the alcohol will absorb water over time, potentially reducing its potency.

Understanding the Azeotrope and Safety Concerns

Alcohol and water form an azeotrope during distillation, which limits the maximum ABV that can be achieved without further purification. Ethanol above this level often requires purification methods that may introduce harmful impurities, such as benzene. Benzene is a carcinogenic substance, and exposure to it is extremely dangerous. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid using this method when making alcoholic beverages.

Practical Tips for Craft Mixologists

For those who wish to make a high-quality, safe alcoholic beverage:

Begin with alcohol that is below 95% ABV, such as Everclear, and gradually increase its potency through controlled dilution. Use Resin-Coated Corks:

Store the alcohol in tightly sealed containers to minimize the absorption of water from the air. Infuse Gently:

Submerge the fruits and herbs in the alcohol gently to avoid air exposure, which can lead to quicker oxidation and less flavor.

Conclusion

Making a unique and potent alcoholic beverage using absolute alcohol can be a fascinating and creative endeavor. However, it is essential to prioritize safety, stability, and quality. By following the guidelines provided, you can create a delightful drink while avoiding the risks associated with harmful impurities.