Home Brew Spirits
Air Still Guide: Making Spirits
The Still Spirits Air Still range is designed for small-batch distillation without a separate cooling-water connection. The original Air Still and the newer Air Still Pro do not use the same operating method, output expectations or accessories, so identify your exact model before following any recipe.
If you are still choosing equipment, begin with our still selection guide. This page explains the process around the Air Still range; the complete manufacturer manual supplied with your model remains the operating authority.
Choose the correct Air Still route
| Equipment | What it is | What else you need | Important difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original Air Still | Compact fixed-output, air-cooled still for small batches of neutral spirit, hydrosols or distilled water | Fermentation, measuring and filtering equipment plus suitable consumables | Use the original Air Still instructions. Air Still Pro tips, foreshots vial and botanical basket do not fit this head. |
| Air Still Mini Distillery | Starter package built around the original Air Still | Replacement consumables after the included starter supply is used | This is still the original Air Still operating route, not an Air Still Pro. |
| Air Still Pro | Two-in-one table-top still with reflux and pot-style modes | Correct mode-specific tips, collection arrangement and full Pro instructions | Can produce different spirit styles and strengths. Do not copy original Air Still collection quantities or timings. |
| Air Still Pro Head Unit | Upgrade head for the original Still Spirits Air Still boiler or Mini Distillery boiler | Compatible original Still Spirits boiler and Pro operating components | The listed warranty applies only with the approved Still Spirits boiler; it is not a universal head for unrelated boilers. |
What you need for a first neutral-spirit batch
The easiest all-in-one supporting pack is the Air Still Essentials Distillation Kit. It contains a fermenter, filtering and collection system, hydrometer, alcometer, boil enhancers, conditioner, wash ingredients, 2.4kg dextrose and starter flavourings. The still itself is separate.
If you already have ingredients and measuring tools, the Air Still Companion Pack supplies the original-style fermenter, collector, carbon-filter arrangement, boil enhancers and conditioner. It does not include the still or fermentation ingredients.
For an 8L neutral wash, the current Air Still Fermentation Kit contains the yeast, nutrient, turbo carbon and two-part clearing treatment; add 2.4kg dextrose, water and a suitable fermenter as directed. Do not use the older 10L/2.2kg recipe simply because it appears in an old guide.
The process at a glance
| Stage | Customer task | Main check |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Ferment | Prepare the wash using one complete current recipe | Use the exact sugar, total volume and temperature on that kit; do not mix instructions from different yeast systems. |
| 2. Confirm and clear | Check stable final gravity, degas and use the stated clearing method | Bubbling stopping is not enough. The Air Still Fermentation Kit calls for 0.990 or lower and stable for two consecutive days. |
| 3. Prepare the still | Transfer clear wash without settled material and add only the model-approved boil control products | Keep sockets dry, inspect the seal and nozzle, provide ventilation and remove ignition sources. |
| 4. Distil | Run the exact model according to its manual and approved fill level | Never leave the still unattended or extend a run beyond the manufacturer’s collection direction. |
| 5. Measure and dilute | Use an alcoholmeter with clean spirit-and-water mixtures | Most alcoholmeters are calibrated at 20°C. Sugar and flavouring make the reading unreliable. |
| 6. Filter if required | Carbon-polish suitable neutral spirit before flavouring | Match the filter, cartridge, ABV limit and capacity; filtering does not make unsafe distillate safe. |
| 7. Flavour | Add the chosen spirit or liqueur flavouring | Check finished yield and required liqueur or cream bases before mixing. |
Making and clearing the wash
- Clean and sanitise the fermenter and all equipment that will contact the wash.
- Follow one current fermentation-kit recipe from start to finish. The Air Still kit is designed around an 8L wash and 2.4kg dextrose.
- Keep the wash within the stated fermentation range and allow enough time for completion.
- Use a hydrometer to confirm stable final gravity. Do not rely only on the airlock.
- Degas and clear exactly as the two-part clearing product directs.
- Transfer only the clear wash, leaving yeast, carbon and sediment behind.
Distilling safely
Place the Air Still on a stable, heat-resistant surface in a well-ventilated area. Alcohol vapour and high-strength distillate are flammable: keep the entire setup away from flames, smoking, sparks and hot appliances. Check that the boiler, head, seal, fan connection, outlet and collection vessel are correctly fitted before switching on.
Use the fill mark, additives, collection quantity and shutdown method in the manual for your exact model and operating mode. The original Air Still, Pro reflux mode and Pro pot mode produce different results. Never block the vapour path, modify safety controls, open a hot still or leave operating equipment unattended.
Measuring, filtering and flavouring
Measure clean, unflavoured spirit with a suitable alcoholmeter near its calibration temperature. Dilute and filter only according to the filter instructions. The original Air Still filter uses single-use Air Still Carbon Cartridges; these are not EZ Filter cartridges.
For other filter choices and their different ABV limits, see Filtering Spirits. Once the neutral spirit is ready, choose from the spirit and liqueur flavourings and follow the individual mixing directions.
Cleaning and ongoing care
- Switch off, unplug and allow the still to cool completely before opening or cleaning.
- Empty the boiler residue and clean the unit using the method approved in the manual.
- Inspect the main seal, outlet and electrical connections before the next run.
- Use model-specific replacements. The original Air Still nozzle and sealing ring are not automatically Air Still Pro parts.
- Clean measuring, filtering and collection equipment promptly and store it dry.
New Zealand legal responsibility
Confirm the current New Zealand Customs and local requirements before distilling alcohol. Rules for personal use do not automatically permit selling, supplying or commercially producing spirits. The person operating the equipment is responsible for lawful use and for following all current safety instructions.