The Art of Balancing Proofs in Distilled Spirits

An essential step in distilling spirits, balancing proofs is not something to be taken lightly. Ensuring the correct ratio between alcohol and water is crucial in meeting product quality standards as intended and for production processes to run as intended. In this chapter we’ll describe current analytical techniques employed within industry in achieving this goal, their usage as well as underlying chemistry behind such methods that has an effect on product quality.

Proof is an indicator of the concentration of ethanol within a liquid; the higher its proof value is, the more ethanol there will be in its composition and consequently how potent a drink might be. Proof can be measured with the use of a hydrometer which measures density differences between liquids and water samples.

SS 5.122 Misleading Statements or Representations

Distilled spirits labels must not contain statements or representations which might mislead purchasers regarding age, proof, country of origin, identity or any other characteristics of the spirit being sold. This prohibition includes both explicit and implicit claims made either directly or by leaving out relevant scientific or technical content.

Distilled spirits can be defined as liquids containing not less than 70% alcohol by volume, with an alcohol specific gravity not exceeding 790032910ths (0.79999) at 60 degrees Fahrenheit relative to water at that temperature. This definition includes all alcoholic beverages produced and stored on the premises of a distillery, including wines and distilled spirits that will not be sold as beverages for human consumption.