Since it's British Science Week, we thought we would get involved by sharing some interesting facts around the science in both whisky distillation and glassblowing.
There is a lot of chemistry involved within glassblowing and vice versa.
Scientific glassblowing is widely recognised and respected. Scientific glassware can be found in many educational, governmental and industrial laboratories. Medical, chemical, engineering and pharmaceutical laboratories use scientific glassware extensively, almost all areas of scientific research will use glass at some point.
Whisky production revolves around science, in particular chemistry. During the process of producing whisky, in the fermentation stage - where the alcohol is first created. To convert the sugar (wort) into alcohol, the fermentation process is necessary and therefore yeast has to be added. As yeast can’t stand hot temperatures the wort is cooled down to about 20°C before it is married with the yeast in washbacks.
After fermentation, the first distillation takes place. This typically lasts around 6 hours, the alcohol and some of the water are separated from the solids and liquids of the wash. The result is called low wines, which are at an ABV of around 21-30%. During the second distillation, a more concentrated liquid is created as more water is removed. There is no chance of frothing either as there are no solids in the liquid.
Angels' Share Glass produces distilling glassware for multiple distilleries, including Spirit Bowls - which are designed to allow the collection of spirit from the still which in turn measure its alcohol level/ABV. Our Hipflask Funnels come in two designs, one of which is designed to mimic these Spirit Bowls.
Here is a short clip from our YouTube channel showcasing the true beauty of working with a product that is so unique, like glass.