A hydrometer measures the relative density of a liquids relative to the density of water. This is referred to as Specific Gravity. Sugar water will have a density that is greater than pure water. Ethanol has a density that is less than water. The hydrometer will sink further into a solution of alcohol and not sink as far into a sugar solution. Specific Gravity is unitless. It defines the ratio of the density of a solution to the density of water. Specific Gravity is calculated like so, Specific Gravity = (Density g/cm)/(1 g/cm).
View More Hydrometers and Their UseTag: alcohol
United States Prohibition
The Volstead act or Prohibition act took effect in 1920. In several states across America laws were already in place to halt the consumption of alcohol. These laws were in effect ahead of the 18th amendment (Volstead act, Prohibition act) was enacted before congress.
View More United States ProhibitionA Brief History of Irish Whiskey
Queen Elizabeth 1st enjoyed Irish whiskey. It’s said that she had casks of Irish whiskey brought to London and put away in the palace. By the 18 century Ireland had around 2000 stills in operation producing Irish whiskey. Presently there are actually only four distilleries in operations: Cooley, Kilbeggan, New Midleton and Old Bushmills. January 2012 Beam Inc., makers of Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark, acquired Cooley Distillery, the last independently Irish owned distillery.
View More A Brief History of Irish WhiskeyScotch Whisky, How It Is Made
Scotch whisky requires a tremendous amount of time to create. It is a tedious process that may last for quite a few years. However, if it is crafted the right way, the end product is one that’s worth the long wait.
View More Scotch Whisky, How It Is MadeHow to Make Alcohol at Home
Producing alcohol is a breeze. It occurs naturally when yeast comes into contact with sugars. Fermentation, or alcohol production, occurs when yeast metabolizes sugars. The byproduct from the yeast is alcohol and CO2.
View More How to Make Alcohol at Home