Fusel Alcohol - Formation and Removal

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.

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