1) What is a copper alembic still?

A copper alembic still is a traditional distillation vessel designed to gently heat botanicals and condense aromatic vapors back into liquid. It’s commonly used for hydrosols (floral waters), essential oils, and distilled water when operated correctly.

2) What can I make with a CopperHolic still?

Our stills are designed for botanical distillation—including hydrosols (rose, lavender, rosemary, etc.) and small-batch essential oils. You can also distill water for lab or household use.

Note: We do not provide guidance for alcohol production. Always follow your local laws and regulations.

3) What’s the difference between hydrosols and essential oils?

Hydrosol is the aromatic water collected during distillation—this is the most common (and most rewarding) home result. Essential oil is the concentrated oil that separates in very small amounts depending on the plant material.

Reality check: home-scale stills usually produce much more hydrosol than oil. That’s normal.

4) Steam distillation vs hydro distillation — which should I use?

• Hydro distillation: botanicals sit in water (simpler for beginners; great for hydrosols).
• Steam distillation: steam passes through botanicals (better for some herbs; requires proper setup).

If you’re new, start with hydro distillation and move to steam-style runs once you’re comfortable.

5) Why copper instead of stainless steel?

• Even heating: copper distributes heat quickly and evenly, helping reduce scorching.
• Cleaner aroma: copper can react with and reduce certain harsh sulfur notes during distillation.
• Tradition + performance: alembic design has been used for centuries for aromatic distillation.

6) What heat source can I use?

Most customers use gas or a controlled electric hot plate. Choose a stable heat source that allows gentle, steady heating (avoid aggressive boiling).

Tip: Too much heat can push foam or plant material into the vapor path and reduce quality.

7) How does the cooling water setup work?

Cold water goes into the condenser inlet and warm water exits from the outlet. Keep the flow steady—your goal is a condenser that stays cool to the touch (not ice-cold, not hot).

If your output is coming out as steam, increase water flow or lower heat.

8) How do I clean and care for my copper still?

• After each run: rinse with warm water; use mild soap if needed.
• Avoid harsh chemicals: no bleach, no abrasive scrubbers inside.
• Dry fully: prevent water spots and excess tarnish.
• Patina is normal: copper naturally darkens—this is cosmetic.

9) How do I avoid scorching or burnt smell?

• Use gentle heat and avoid hard boiling.
• Don’t overpack the pot with dry botanicals.
• Stir (when applicable) before heating and keep enough water in the pot.

10) How do I choose the right size?

• 5L: compact starter size for small runs and learning.
• 5 Gallon: best all-rounder for consistent home batches.
• 10 Gallon: larger batches and higher throughput.

If you tell us what you’re distilling and how often, we’ll recommend the best size.

11) Do you ship internationally?

Currently, we ship within the United States only. See our Shipping Policy for delivery estimates and tracking.

12) Still have a question?

Message us on the Contact page and include your order number (if you have one), your still size, and what you’re distilling—so we can help faster.