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10 Best Pot Still

From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.

Buying Guide for the Best Pot Still

Choosing a pot still is an exciting process, whether you are interested in making your own spirits, essential oils, or hydrosols. The right pot still for you depends on what you want to produce, how much you intend to make at a time, and your experience level. Before making a decision, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the key features of pot stills, as each one can directly affect performance, ease of use, and the final quality of your product.
MaterialThe material of a pot still is typically copper or stainless steel. The material is important because it influences the flavor of the final product, maintenance needs, and longevity. Copper is prized for its ability to remove sulfides (unpleasant flavors), making it a favorite for spirits like whiskey, but it requires regular cleaning to prevent corrosion. Stainless steel is more durable and lower maintenance, but doesn’t have the same natural filtering effect as copper. Some stills use a combination of both. If you are aiming for traditional spirits, copper is often preferred, whereas for oils or lower-maintenance use, stainless steel may be the way to go.
CapacityCapacity refers to how much liquid the pot still can hold and distill at one time. This is important because it affects how much end product you can yield per batch and how long the distillation process will take. Small stills (less than 5 liters) are suitable for hobbyists, experimenting, or making small amounts of specialty products. Medium stills (around 5–20 liters) balance home production and small business needs. Large stills (20 liters and up) are better for those producing more regularly or on a commercial scale. Think about your batch size and how often you plan to distill to determine the right capacity for you.
Heating Source CompatibilityHeating source compatibility tells you what type of heat the still can safely be used with — for example, gas burners, electric plates, or induction stoves. This is important for both safety and convenience, as using an incompatible heat source can damage the still or make distillation dangerous. Some pot stills come with integrated heating, while others require a separate source. Consider what heating options are available and convenient in your space when choosing your pot still.
Ease of Assembly and CleaningThe design of the pot still impacts whether it’s easy to set up, take apart, and clean. This is important because thorough cleaning is essential for safe and flavorful distillation. Some stills have complex setups with many parts, while others are simpler and more intuitive. If you are newer to distilling or want to minimize hassle, look for models known for easy assembly and maintenance. Regular cleaning will preserve both the taste and safety of your batches.
Safety FeaturesSafety features can include pressure release valves, secure lids, and sturdy construction. These are important because distilling involves heat and sometimes pressure, and any failure can be hazardous. Having built-in safety mechanisms offers peace of mind, especially for beginners or those distilling larger batches. Look for stills that emphasize airtight seals, reliable valves, and robust build quality to ensure you can distill with confidence.
Type of DistillationPot stills are made for batch distillation and are best for products where a fuller, more aromatic flavor is desired, such as whiskey or certain essential oils. This is important because you’ll want to match your still to the kind of product you hope to make. If you prefer a cleaner, higher-purity spirit, a different type of still (such as a reflux still) may be better, whereas pot stills are ideal for more flavorful results. Think about your end product and choose accordingly.