Formation and Removal
Fusel alcohols are formed when fermentation occurs:
- at higher temperatures
- at lower pH
- when yeast activity is limited by low nitrogen content
During distillation, fusel alcohols are concentrated in the "tails" at the end of the distillation run. They have an oily consistency, which is noticeable to the distiller, hence the other name "fusel oil". If desired, these heavier alcohols can be almost completely separated in a reflux still. Freeze distillation, on the other hand, does not remove fusel alcohols.
Read more about this topic: Fusel Alcohol
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