A reflux still is one of the most effective tools for producing high-purity spirits in a home setup. Whether you're making vodka, gin base, or a spirit to flavour later, reflux stills are known for their clean results and efficient operation.

At Brews and Ques NZ, we use and recommend the Pure Distilling Reflux Still – it's beginner-friendly, quick to set up, and delivers excellent output with minimal effort. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key steps and tips for using a reflux still at home.

What Is a Reflux Still?

A reflux still is designed to purify alcohol by forcing some vapour to condense and return down the column. This repeated distillation effect increases the alcohol concentration and removes more impurities compared to a pot still.

Why choose a reflux still?

• Produces cleaner, more neutral spirits

• Typically yields 90–95% ABV in a single run

• Requires fewer distillations for purity

• Ideal for vodka, gin base, and flavouring later

The Pure Distilling Reflux Still stands out for its simple design and consistent results. It connects easily to most boilers and doesn’t need constant adjustment during a run.

Before You Begin: Preparing the Wash

To get the best results from your reflux still, start with a well-made wash. A sugar wash is commonly used for neutral spirits.

Tips for a better wash:

• Use turbo yeast and proper nutrients for clean fermentation

• Let fermentation fully finish (check with a hydrometer)

• Clear the wash or rack it off to avoid sediment entering the still

• Make sure everything is clean and sanitised

Setting Up Your Reflux Still

Most reflux stills, including the Pure Distilling unit, are easy to assemble.

Key setup steps:

• Attach the column securely to your boiler

• Connect water hoses to the condenser

• Insert the thermometer probe properly

• Ensure seals are tight and leak-free

• Fill the boiler with your cleared wash, leaving headspace

Always follow the manufacturer’s setup instructions – if you’re using Pure Distilling, their user guide is clear and beginner-friendly.

Running Your Reflux Still

Now comes the fun part. Once the still is assembled and heated, it will begin producing vapour that condenses back into liquid.

During the run:

• Heat your boiler slowly and steadily

• Monitor the temperature at the top of the column

• Adjust water flow to maintain cooling efficiency

• Collect your spirit in clean containers, ready to make your cuts

Making Cuts: Foreshots, Heads, Hearts, and Tails

While not the focus of this article, it’s important to briefly cover cuts. The reflux still will help separate different parts of the run more clearly than a pot still.

Foreshots (first 100–150ml per 25L wash) should always be discarded – they contain harmful compounds like methanol and acetone.

Heads follow the foreshots and may still carry off-flavours. These can be blended in sparingly or discarded.

Hearts are the best part – clean, drinkable, and neutral. This is the main product you’ll keep.

Tails contain heavier compounds and often have a wet cardboard smell. You can stop collecting once you reach this stage.

With a reflux still, your hearts cut will usually be larger and cleaner than with a pot still, making the process more efficient and rewarding.

After the Run: Cleaning and Storage

Once you’ve finished your run, cleaning your reflux still is essential to keep it running well.

Cleaning tips:

• Let the unit cool down before disassembling

• Rinse everything with warm water

• Run a vinegar/water solution through it every few uses

• Store dry in a clean space to avoid corrosion

Want to See a Reflux Still in Action?

We run a Monthly Distilling Workshop at Brews and Ques NZ where you can get hands-on experience with the Pure Distilling Reflux Still. Whether you’re brand new or just want to refine your skills, it’s a great way to:

• Watch a full distillation run

• Ask questions about setup, cuts, and wash prep

• Learn tips from experienced home distillers

• See what gear you might need to upgrade

Get Started with Pure Distilling

If you’re ready to start distilling, check out our range of Pure Distilling Reflux Stills and Accessories. They’re easy to use, reliable, and ideal for producing clean spirits at home.

👉 View the full collection here

And if you’ve got questions, get in touch or join us at the next workshop — we’re always keen to help.