What does 'hearts' refer to in the distillation process?

In the distillation process, 'hearts' refers to the center portion of the distillate that contains preferred congeners, which contribute to the desired flavors and aromas in the final spirit. This phase follows the 'heads,' which are the initial fractions that contain undesirable volatile compounds and are typically discarded, and precedes the 'tails,' which may contain heavier compounds and can also be less desirable. The hearts are the most palatable and refined part of the distillation, showcasing the spirit's primary characteristics that are sought after by distillers and consumers alike. Hence, the identification of the hearts is crucial for producing high-quality spirits.