Glossary
- a
- AbsintheAn alcoholic drink popularized in France in the early 20th century associated with Bohemian life...
- AbsolutesConcentrated essential oils extracted by means of the enfleurage method - used to obtain...
- AgaveThis is the plant from which drinks such as Tequila , Mixto and Pulque are made from. It...
- AgingPeriod during which eau-de-vie is stored in barrels to acquire the characteristics of the wood...
- AguardentePortuguese term for eau-de-vie .
- Alcohol Concentration%v/v - is an abbreviation for percentage volume of a substance of the total volume - e.g. 12.5 %...
- Alcohol hydrometer= Alcoholmeter
- Alcoholic volumeTerm used to designate the level of alcohol present in an alcoholic beverage. The alcoholic...
- AlcoholmeterOenology instrument also known as Alcohol hydrometer which allows for the measurement of the...
- AlembicDistillation apparatus employed for the distillation of eau-de-vies , essential oils and...
- Alembic head= Vapour Chamber
- AlquitarDistilling apparatus suitable for distilling eau-de-vies , essential oils and floral waters...
- AmygdalaStructure that forms part of the limbic system responsible for processing memory and emotions.
- AnalgesicA generic term that describes the various pharmacological substances used for relieving pain....
- AngelicaAn herbaceous plant from the Nordic regions with a flavour similar to juniper . It is much used...
- Angels sharePortion of alcohol that is lost through evaporation when aging wines and eau-de-vies . This...
- AniseedAn herbaceous plant from the Mediterranean. It has excellent antiseptic properties and is...
- AnthelminticPharmacological agent used to combat intestinal worms.
- Anti-inflammatoryPharmacological agent used to combat inflammation. These substances may also act as analgesics .
- AntipyreticPharmacological agent for reducing fever and its associated symptoms.
- AntisepticPharmacological agent that stops the proliferation of bacteria on the external regions of the...
- AntispasmodicPharmacological substance that helps prevent and calm muscle spasms (involuntary muscle...
- AraghTradicional Iraq's Moonshine made from raisins and with an alcoholic grade never below 45%.
- ArakA strong tasting middle-eastern drink made from aniseed .
- ArmagnacA French eau-de-vie with an alcoholic volume greater than 40% from 3 distinct regions ( Bas...
- AromaDistinctive smell or odour perceived by the olfactory system. Wine or perfume fragrance. With...
- AromatherapyA complimentary therapy for restoring emotional and physical wellbeing with the use and...
- Aromatic bathThe addition of essential oils turns an ordinary bath into an aromatic bath. It is recommended...
- Aromatic herbsHerbs with aromatic leaves, flowers, stems or roots that impart flavour and aroma to food or...
- Aromatic plantsPlants with aromatic leaves, flowers, stems or roots that impart flavour and aroma to food or...
- AvocadoFruit of the avocado tree originally from Mexico. This fruit is very rich in sugars, proteins,...
- Absinthe
- b
- BagaçoTraditional Portuguese Moonshine, resulting from the mix of the skins and branches of the grapes...
- Bain-MarieMethod employed to heat a substance slowly and gently by immersing one recipient in another with...
- BarikGlass used to serve the Arak mixed with water and ice.
- Bas ArmagnacThe name of one of the 3 French districts where Armagnac is produced. The Bas Armagnac region...
- BergamotA citrus fruit originally from China, similar yet more bitter than orange. In aromatherapy...
- Bois OrdinairesOne of the six Cognac producing regions in France. This coastal region produces earthy...
- Bons BoisOne of the six Cognac producing regions in France. Cognacs with a high alcoholic volume and...
- BorderiesOne of the six Cognac producing regions in France. This region has chalky soils and is...
- BouquetThis is the fragrance or aroma of a wine that has undergone the aging process. It may also...
- BourbonThis is the renowned American corn whiskey . It may also include wheat, rye or malted barley....
- BrandyTerm that designates alcoholic spirits distilled from wine or the residue of the wine making...
- Brass unionA threaded union that that facilitates the fastening of different parts of the alembic and...
- Bagaço
- c
- CachaçaTradicional Brazil's Moonshine, made from sugar cane, produced in small farms.
- CalvadosCider Brandy from the French region of Normandy.
- CamomileOne of the oldest medicinal plants used by man, native to Europe and used in aromatherapy , for...
- Carrier oilA vegetable oil, also known as base oil, used to dilute essential oils for massage treatments...
- CaskA wooden container, usually oak or some other wood, with a bulging midsection. Wines or...
- CassisFamous French liqueur often used to make desserts made from the cassis berry or blackcurrant.
- CedarThis tree is native to the Middle East and the Himalayas and often used in landscaping, for...
- ChauffeA French term that refers to the distillate from the first distillation process. Bonne...
- ChocoSmall cylindrical cup on which sake is served.
- ChordFragrance resulting from a combination of various notes .
- CiderA low alcoholic beverage made from fermented apples or apple juice. The famous French brandy ,...
- CloveAn oriental aromatic plant cultivated all over the world, used in cuisine, for making...
- CognacA well known eau-de-vie or brandy produced in French region of Charante. There are six...
- CompressPiece of gauze or cloth (linen or cotton) applied on wounds. In aromatherapy the compress is...
- ConcretesConcentrated essential oils extracted by means of the enfleurage method - used to obtain...
- CondensationPhysical phenomenon that occurs when a substance passes from its gaseous phase to its liquid...
- Condensation unitPart of an alembic or alquitar where the vapours are cooled and condensed by the cold water...
- CondenserPart of an alembic or alquitar where the vapours are cooled and condensed by the cold water...
- CopperCopper has been known and used for centuries. It is an excellent conductor of electricity,...
- CorianderAn aromatic plant native to South East Asia and North Africa with a characteristic aroma and...
- Cut off pointsTerm that designates the points of separation of the different parts of the distillate. The...
- CypressA tree native to Southern Europe but also found across Europe and North America. It is known for...
- Cachaça
- d
- DermisLayer of skin directly below the epidermis that consists of connective tissue and contains...
- DesalinationProcess of obtaining potable water from sea water by the elimination of dissolved salts and may...
- DistillateThis is the final result from the distillation of a fermented wash in an alembic or...
- DistillationThe extraction of components of a substance by heating and collection of resultant vapours by...
- DiureticA substance that stimulates the kidneys to increase the amount of urine produced.
- Draining pipeAn alembic accessory that facilitates cleaning and discharge after a distillation run.
- Dermis
- e
- Eau-de-VieA generic term for alcoholic beverages obtained from the fermentation and subsequent...
- EbullitionRefers to the boiling point of a liquid when a substance passes from a liquid phase to a gaseous...
- EmenogoguePharmacological substance that induces a menstrual flow.
- EnfleurageA traditional method of extracting essential oils from delicate flowers such as rose or...
- EpidermisThe outer layer of the skin that together with the dermis and hypodermis protects the body...
- Escherichia coli O157The Escherichia coli is a bacterial parasite found in the human intestine. The presence of E....
- EssencierA recipient that allows for the simultaneous collection and separation of essential oils and...
- Essential oilsHighly aromatic, volatile and insoluble substances extracted from leaves, flowers, stems and...
- EstersChemical substances resultant from the interaction of acids from organic materials with alcohol...
- EthanolIs the colourless alcohol soluble in water and other organic compounds present in alcoholic...
- Ethyl carbamateA toxic substance which results from the conversion of cyanide in the stones of fruits during...
- EucalyptusA tall tree native to Australia used for timber, to extract resin, to produce cellulose,...
- EvaporationPhysical phenomenon that occurs when a substance passes from its liquid phase to its gaseous...
- ExpectorantPharmacological substance that acts upon the respiratory system, promoting the release of phlegm...
- ExpressionMethod of essential oil extraction, also known as cold pressing, used for citrus fruits such...
- Eau-de-Vie
- f
- FennelAn herbaceous plant from the Mediterranean often used in cuisine, for dental products and for...
- FermentationProcess of conversion of sugars (sucrose, glucose, fructose) into alcohol ( ethanol ) and carbon...
- Fins BoisOne of the six Cognac producing regions in France. The chalky soils of this region produce...
- Floral watersAre a by-product of the distillation and are also known as hydrolats or hydrosols. Floral...
- Foot bathA traditional and simple method for relieving tired feet and legs by hot water immersion. By the...
- Fractionating columnThe column allows for a fractional distillation process with a resultant high alcohol...
- Fennel
- g
- GeraniumA garden plant native to Southern Africa and used for the extraction of essential oils , for...
- GerminationInitial embryonic stages of plant growth from a seed, bulb or tuber.
- GinThis is the famed Dutch eau-de-vie made from juniper berries, at first introduced into England...
- Grande ChampagneGrand Champagne has nothing to do with champagne, the sparkling drink but is one of the six...
- GrappaThis is the Italian term for a vinic alcohol or grape spirit eau-de-vie . In Italy coffee may...
- Geranium
- h
- Haut ArmagnacOne of the three French districts where Armagnac is produced. This district produces lower...
- HeadsRefers to the first part of alcoholic distillate to flow from the condenser that is separated...
- HeartsThis is the part of distillate fit for human consumption, the part with the ethanol . The...
- Hydrolats= Floral waters
- HypodermisThe lowermost layer of skin with loose connective tissue and fat cells that together with the...
- HypothalamusThis is a region of the brain below the thalamus responsible for processing emotions, for the...
- HyssopAn aromatic plant native to the Mediterranean and Central Asia, highly esteemed for its...
- Haut Armagnac
- i
- j
- JabukovacaTypical Serbian Moonshine, brandy made from apples.
- JasmineOriginally found in the European, Asiatic and African continents and highly appreciated for its...
- JaundiceYellow colouration of the skin and the white of the eyes from excess bile pigment in the blood...
- JeropigaThis is a sweet wine made in Portugal. A Jeropiga is made by suspending the fermentation...
- JigaA Portuguese unit of measure used by the older generations. 1 Jiga is equal to 10 litres.
- JojobaNative to arid regions of Central and South America. Jojoba oil is extracted from the flowers...
- JuniperThis plant is native to the European continent. Its berries have many culinary uses including...
- Jabukovaca
- k
- l
- LambanogTypical Philippian Moonshine, made from coconut flower and with a high alcoholic grade (between...
- Lavanda= Lavender
- LavenderAn aromatic plant native to the Mediterranean whose flowers are highly prized by virtue of its...
- LindenAn aromatic plant used for flavouring liqueurs , for making teas, pharmacological substances...
- LinseedLinseed oil is extracted from the seeds and used for making varnish and various pharmacological...
- LiqueurAlcoholic beverage produced from alcohol, sugar , fruits and aromatic herbs .
- Lambanog
- m
- MacerationMethod of extracting active ingredients from a substance. This method is used for making...
- MaltBarley or some other grains that have undergone the malting process.
- MaltingThis is a process in whiskey production which involves the soaking and germination of barley...
- MaromiMix of solid and liquid sake parts.
- MashMaterial, welches durch das Zerdücken von Trauben oder anderen Früchten entsteht. Davon...
- MashingDuring this whiskey process the malted grains are grinded so a greater quantity of starch may...
- MasuTraditional square wooden vessel where sake is served. It may be placed on a saucer or a cup can...
- MeadAn ancient alcoholic beverage enjoyed by the Celts, Saxons and Vikings made from the...
- MestarResult of the fermentation of the liquid harvested from the grapes/dates in Arak production.
- Metallic belt structureThe metallic belt structure consists of a number of belts which are permanently welded along the...
- MethanolAlso known as methyl alcohol or wood alcohol and is a highly flammable and toxic alcohol. It is...
- MezedesThese are Greek gastronomic delights similar to the Spanish tapas and are normally served...
- MixtoTequila made from 51% blue agave sugars and 49% from other sources.
- MolassesA thick sticky syrup produced as a by product of the sugar refining process.
- MoonshineName given to high alcoholic grade beverages, characteristic of each Country, many times...
- MustPressed mass of grapes in their juice where fermentation will take place.
- Maceration
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- o
- p
- Parrot spoutA fundamental accessory placed at the exiting spout of a condenser and used in conjunction...
- PatchouliA plant native to India with therapeutic properties used to make essential oils and perfumes.
- PeatDecaying plant matter found in marshes and swamps and used as a combustible fuel.
- Petite ChampagneOne of the six French Cognac producing regions. The soil is similar to that of Grand...
- pHRefers to the measure of acidity or alkalinity in a solution - the lower the pH the higher the...
- PhylloxeraThis insect is native to the American continent and was introduced to Europe by vines brought...
- PotThis is the part of the alembic where the wash or mash is placed and heated to encourage...
- Pre-heaterThis is like a holding tank or reservoir for the Charentais Alembic . This recipient with its...
- PulqueAn ancient fermented beverage made from aguamiel, the juice extracted from the agave plant....
- PuskarTradicional Estonian Moonshine, made from potatoes.
- Parrot spout
- r
- RakiTraditional Turkish Moonshine made from aniseed.
- Refining lentilAn alembic accessory placed between the vapour chamber of the alembic and the swan neck...
- Refining platesThese plates or trays are placed horizontally in the fractionating column and allow for the...
- Reflux columnThis horizontal column is placed on top of the alembic unit and functions much like the...
- RivetThis is a small round metal peg used in the construction of riveted union alembics and...
- RosemaryAn aromatic plant of Mediterranean origin often used as a condiment, for teas and for flavouring...
- RumRum is a distilled beverage made from molasses and may have distinctive properties depending...
- Raki
- s
- SakazukiVessel similar to a saucer used to serve sake.
- SakeJapanese liqueur made out of fermented rice and water with an alcoholic grade between 18% and 20%.
- SandalwoodA tropical Asian tree valued for its wood and used for extracting essential oils used in the...
- SchnappsThis is a German term for a strong clear unsweetened distillate or eau-de-vie made from...
- Serpentine coilThis is a spiral tube in the interior of the condenser or condensing unit which allows for the...
- Sesame seedsThe oily seeds of this plant, native to India, are used for making vegetable oils, flour and...
- SherrySherry is a fortified wine from the Jerez de la Frontera region in Spain. It is a strong sweet...
- ShuboGrain paste result of the mixture between Kóji , water and vaporized rice. It is left to...
- SieveThis perforated plate is incorporated in some alembics especially for the steam distillation...
- SljivovicaTypical Serbian Moonshine, brandy made from plums.
- SolubleTerm that expresses the ability of a substance to dissolve in another substance.
- SpirtoResult of the distillation of Mestar.
- SpoutThis is the outlet pipe for the distillate from the condensation unit of an alembic or...
- Star AnisThis plant is native to China and Japan and is similar to aniseed although more potent .It has...
- StimulantPharmacological agent that acts upon the central nervous system for increasing physical...
- SugarCarbohydrate found naturally in fruits and vegetables. Sugar may be made from sugar cane, sugar...
- Sulphuric AcidA strong mineral acid that is soluble in water and accumulates in alembics when not used for...
- Swan neckConnecting pipe between the vapour chamber and the condensing unit with the characteristic...
- Sakazuki
- t
- TailsThis is the final portion of distillate to exit the condenser and together with heads should...
- TanninsOrganic substances present in wine responsible for characteristics such as colouration and...
- TapetusaTradicional Colombia's Moonshine, made from corn.
- TenarèzeOne of the three French districts where Armagnac is produced. These lands have chalky clay...
- TequilaPopular Mexican alcoholic spirit made from the fermentation of the blue agave plant juices....
- TetrahydrocannabinolThis is the active substance found in cannabis also known as THC that is responsible for the...
- ThalamusPart of the diencephalon located at the base of the brain responsible for processing and...
- TharraTradicional Indian Moonshine, made from the fermentation of sugar cane pulp.
- ThermometerAn alembic accessory which may be separated or incorporated in the alembic which allows for...
- ThujoneThe principle ingredient in Artemisia Absinthum or wormwood-used in making essential oils and...
- TójiName given to the ones who produce sake. Highly respected job in Japan that is passed as a...
- TonicA substance or agent that that reinvigorates a debilitated organism.
- TurfDecaying plant matter found in marshes and swamps and used as a combustible fuel.
- Tails
- v
- Vapour chamberThis is the onion shaped alembic dome lid where evaporating vapours from the pot or boiler...
- VasodilatorThis is a substance that dilates the blood vessels and thus decreases blood pressure.
- VeronicaThe leaves of this aromatic plant are used to flavour liqueurs , for making teas and...
- VetiverThis plant is used to make essential oils , in the perfume industry and in aromatherapy . The...
- ViljamovkaTypical Serbian Moonshine, brandy made from pears.
- VodkaThis alcoholic spirit is made from various cereals (corn, rye and wheat), tubers (potatoes,...
- Volatile= Volatile Component .
- Volatile componentDescriptive of certain substances, liquids or solids that evaporate easily. During distillation...
- Vapour chamber
- w
- WashA fermentable solution for alcohol production that may be of fruit, cereals or sugar.
- WhiskyWhisky may be made from malted or unmalted barley depending on the desired result. Barley is the...
- White LightningTypical Moonshine from the Appalachia area, USA, made from corn and sugar.
- WormwoodA bitter extract is obtained from wormwood for flavouring liqueurs and wines.It was much used...
- Wash