What are the two main parts of a pot still?

The two main parts of a pot still are the boiler and the condenser. The pot still operates through a simple distillation process, where the liquid (typically wash or mash) is heated in the boiler. This heat causes the alcohol to vaporize, and the vapor then travels to the condenser, where it is cooled and returns to liquid form.

The boiler is essential for generating the steam and vapor needed for distillation, while the condenser plays a critical role in cooling the vapor so that the alcohol can be collected. Together, these components facilitate the distillation process, allowing for the separation of alcohol from the wash based on different boiling points. The simplicity and effectiveness of this design make it a traditional method for producing spirits.