TOP 14 best moonshine stills: 2021 rating by price/quality and which one to choose for home use

Making alcohol at home allows you to get a truly high-quality product with a unique taste. For this you will need a moonshine still. But which model should you choose among the huge variety on the market?

First of all, it is determined what drinks and in what quantities will be prepared.

The type of device and the volume of its tank depend on this.

It is also necessary to study the features of the design itself: it must be reliable, durable, but at the same time easy to operate.

An analysis of reviews from owners of moonshine stills and recommendations from experts made it possible to create a rating of the best devices for home use according to the 2021 version in terms of price and quality. When compiling the selection, official tests and reviews from experts were also taken into account, so each device from the rating has reliability, quality and functionality.

Rating of the TOP 14 best moonshine stills of 2020-2021

Which distiller is better to buy?

In the question of which distiller is better, you should not be frivolous, because the purchase is not made for one year. And the purity of the resulting product and the safety of those who will use it depend on the quality of the purchased equipment. It is recommended to choose the best moonshine still for your home based on personal needs and the conditions in which the process will take place. If you are not sure about the correct choice, then you can use the TOP devices listed in this article as a reference point.

How to choose a moonshine still?

Before choosing a moonshine still, you need to decide on the volume of the distillation cube.

Despite the fact that storing a device with a 20-30 liter tank at home is not very convenient, experts recommend choosing just such models, since they can produce a sufficient amount of high-quality alcohol at one time.

The material of the tank also plays an important role. Budget moonshine stills and mid-price devices are made of stainless steel. More expensive models are made of copper. This material is fragile, but at the same time has increased thermal conductivity.

You should also pay attention to the material of the gaskets: it is advisable that they be made of food-grade silicone. All connections of the device must be sealed.

Methods for cooling distillate

The choice of cooling method is not fundamental, but if it is not taken into account, then some problems with the organization of distillation conditions are possible.
If the device is flow-through, then you will need to install the system next to the water tap, since it is cold water that will stimulate better distillation. It is important that the water supply process be continuous, otherwise there is a possibility of a decrease in productivity

To prevent such situations from arising, as well as for those who plan to brew alcohol in a country house where there is no continuous supply of water, you should pay attention to a static model. Here you already need to monitor the temperature of the cooler and periodically change the water to colder

TOP 6 best moonshine stills in price/quality ratio for 2021

To prepare high-quality alcoholic drinks at home, you don’t have to buy an expensive device. Many domestic companies produce devices in which high-quality assembly and thoughtful functionality are successfully combined with a reasonable cost.

Pervach Elite 20T

Inexpensive and easy-to-use moonshine still is ideal for use at home.

Distillation in it takes place in a fully automatic mode, so user participation in the preparation of alcohol is minimized. The manufacturer also took care of operational safety and equipped the design with an excess pressure relief valve.

For ease of use, the device is equipped with a removable lid and an enlarged neck of the distillation cube..

The moonshine still can be installed on any stoves and heating devices, except induction stoves.

To improve the quality of the finished drink, the device is equipped with a steamer, and a thermometer is provided with the device itself to monitor the operating temperature.

The body and all structural elements are made of stainless steel . It is resistant to corrosion, does not react chemically with alcohol and does not release toxins when heated.

Specifications:

• distillation cube volume 20 l;
• neck diameter 24 cm;
• productivity 2 l/h.

pros

• reliable domestic manufacturer;
• affordable cost combined with high-quality assembly of the structure;
• An alcohol meter is included in the kit;
• there is a steamer;
• A pressure relief valve is provided.

Minuses

• takes up a lot of space when stored;
• When the temperature rises strongly, reflux into the steam tank occurs and the quality of the alcohol deteriorates.

Pervach Economy 12T

This small distiller is perfect for those who want to try their hand at making homemade alcohol, but are not yet ready to pay for a more expensive unit.

The volume of the distillation cube is enough to prepare 12 liters of high-quality alcohol.

The body is made of stainless steel, and for heating the device can be installed on both a gas and electric stove. The device is not suitable for induction models.

A thermometer is included with the device, which allows you to accurately control the temperature inside the tank to obtain the highest quality alcohol..

The cover of the device is not removable. It ensures complete sealing of the device, and a durable silicone hose is included in the kit to supply the finished drink.

Specifications:

• height 38 cm;
• cube volume 12 l;
• productivity 2 l/h.

pros

• affordable cost is successfully combined with complete tightness of the structure;
• compact dimensions;
• the handles practically do not heat up during operation;
• alcohol meter included.

Minuses

• The thermometer provided in the kit does not correspond to what is shown in the photo;
• Some hoses are missing from the kit.

MAGARYCH Narodny 12

The moonshine still is equipped with a steam chamber for better purification of alcohol and removal of harmful impurities and fusel oils from it..

The device body has a connector for a thermometer, and temperature control inside the distillation cube greatly facilitates the distillation process.

The body and all structural elements are made of stainless steel . The case itself can be easily disassembled for compact storage of the device.

The height of the device is 60 cm, although the volume of the cube is 12 liters.

This amount is enough to prepare a small portion of homemade alcohol, especially since the throughput of the device is 1.4 l/hour.

Specifications:

• distillation cube diameter 22 cm;
• neck diameter 4 cm;
• wall thickness 1 mm.

pros

• affordable price;
• Works great offline;
• body completely made of stainless steel;
• Convenient to assemble and disassemble.

Minuses

• thin tubes often become clogged;
• low performance compared to analogues.

Phoenix Economy 30 liters

This model of moonshine distiller is perfect for preparing alcoholic drinks in small and medium volumes.

Using this device, you can obtain alcohol with an alcohol content of up to 50% with excellent taste, and the design of the device is thought out in such a way that even beginners can successfully use it. The manufacturer made sure that the design of the device was as convenient as possible for novice users.

The design of the device is collapsible, and the wide neck of the distillation cube makes it easy to wash and clean..

The device itself is made of high quality stainless steel. There is a thermometer to control the temperature inside the cube and a special drain valve to move the finished drink from the tank directly into the container.

Specifications:

• cube volume 30 l;
• height 66 cm;
• productivity 3 l/h.

pros

• there is a collapsible steam tank;
• wide neck of the distillation cube;
• a tap is provided for draining phlegm;
• thick walls made of durable stainless steel;
• high performance.

Minuses

• not always on sale;
• Some users consider the model to be too large.

MAGARYCH Premium BCDR 20

The distinctive feature of this distiller is not only its high performance and high-quality assembly.

The device has an attractive appearance, although the actual color of the case may differ slightly from that presented on the official website and in online stores.

A steamer is installed between the distillation cube and the coil.

This is a sealed cylinder in which condensation from alcohol vapor is collected. Thanks to this design, the moonshine still allows you to produce high-quality alcohol without the need for additional distillation.

The manufacturer also took care of ease of use . The entire structure, including the steamer, is collapsible, so after use the device can be easily cleaned of product residues.

Additionally, the case is equipped with safe wooden handles that do not heat up during operation.

Specifications:

• distillation cube volume 20 l;
• productivity 1.4 l/hour;
• height 63 cm.

pros

• reputable proven manufacturer;
• attractive appearance;
• convenient collapsible design facilitates maintenance;
• high-quality wooden handles;
• There is a steamer to improve the quality of the finished product.

Minuses

• Poorly assembled devices are often encountered;
• not very tight tube connections.

Pervach Elite-Aromat 20T

A high-quality moonshine still has high productivity and a spacious distillation cube, but is ideal for home use.

The case is made of stainless steel. The design, in addition to the distillation cube and the cooling coil, includes a steam chamber.

With its help, you can obtain a high-quality distillate after the first distillation, since all harmful impurities and fusel oils are removed from the alcohol condensate in the steamer.

Additionally, the steamer contains a container for flavoring, with which you can add a unique taste and aroma to the finished alcoholic drink.

The design of the entire device, including the steam chamber, is collapsible . In combination with the wide neck of the distillation cube, this feature ensures convenient cleaning and maintenance of the device.

Specifications:

• cube volume 20 l;
• distillation cube diameter 24 cm;
• productivity 2l/hour.

pros

• thick stainless steel body;
• optimal performance;
• affordable cost is successfully combined with a thoughtful design;
• There is a steamer with a container for flavorings.

Minuses

• not always on sale;
• Some users consider the device to be too large.

Which material to prefer

The ideal material for a moonshine still is one that does not emit harmful substances during operation and does not affect the taste and color. Avoid craftsmen offering aluminum structures. Give preference to inert metals: copper, stainless steel. Stainless steel is cheaper, easier to maintain, and more reliable in service. The steel must have sufficient thickness (more than 2 mm) and must have a GOST certificate of compliance with food purposes (request documentation from the manufacturer). Copper is more expensive, but the quality of the final product is much higher. Reduces distillation time and does not affect the organoleptic properties of the distillate. Copper moonshine stills need to be carefully looked after, thoroughly cleaned and rinsed.

TOP 2 best moonshine stills with double distillation

There are not many companies involved in the production of moonshine stills with double distillation function, so only two models in this category were included in the ranking of the best according to the 2021 version.

CHZDA 20/35t

Compared to other moonshine stills on the market, this device is more expensive, but the cost is fully justified by the functionality and excellent quality of the resulting drink..

The stainless steel body does not rust and does not react chemically with alcohol. In addition to the standard coil and distillation cube, the device has a collapsible steamer.

A thermometer is also built into the body to monitor the temperature inside the tank, and a small drain valve.

A distinctive feature of the device is the unusual design of the tank. Its 4-liter upper compartment serves as a steamer, and the lower compartment holds up to 20 liters of product.

Thanks to this, the device allows you to immediately obtain high-quality alcohol without resorting to repeated distillation.

Specifications:

• cube volume 20 l;
• neck diameter 4 cm;
• productivity 0.6 l/hour.

pros

• thick walls made of stainless steel;
• the unique design of the distillation cube guarantees high quality of the drink;
• safe sealed design;
• the housing has a thermometer and a drain valve;
• simple and clear instructions included.

Minuses

• low productivity;
• hard to find on sale.

CHZDA 10/35t

A flow-type moonshine still will become an indispensable assistant for those who prefer homemade rather than store-bought alcohol..

The design of the device is designed in such a way that a high-quality drink can be obtained after the first distillation. For this purpose, a two-level design of the distillation tank was created.

The upper part holds 4 liters, and the lower part - 10 liters of raw materials . All elements of the case are made of high-quality stainless steel, which does not react chemically with alcoholic beverages.

Additionally, the device body is equipped with a built-in thermometer and a small faucet for draining.

The device comes with detailed instructions, so even novice users will not have any difficulties using the device.

Specifications:

• cube volume 10 l;
• neck diameter 4 cm;
• productivity 0.6 l/hour.

pros

• Compact dimensions make storage easy;
• suitable for gas and electric stoves;
• the design includes a steam chamber;
• the body can be easily disassembled for washing;
• affordable price, considering the double distillation function.

Minuses

• not always on sale;
• There is no separate tap in the steam tank.

Design features and additional equipment

When giving preference to any type of moonshine device, you must remember to take into account the method of heating it. If a gas stove is used, there are no special requirements for such installations, except for its assembly height. The fact is that it may not fit on the stove due to the presence of a hood or something else in the kitchen. If there is an electric or induction hob, then you need to choose designs with a flat bottom. In the case of induction, it is desirable that the bottom of the cube be thick and ferromagnetic.

For those rooms that are not of sufficient height, professionals advise buying a cube with an already installed heating element, or you can install an additional induction cooker. Heating on it is carried out in a short time and is quite effective.

Manufacturers of home moonshine installations are trying to make the distillation procedure possible under different conditions. Models with a built-in heating element are popular among summer residents. For dacha conditions, where problems with the availability of cold water often arise, experts advise choosing moonshine stills that do not require running water. Although it must be borne in mind that if the voltage is not constant, malfunctions occur, especially with strong boiling.

An automatic moonshine distiller, powered by electricity, makes the distillation process both easy and difficult. So, if just one controller breaks down, the entire device stops working.

Additional devices have a certain meaning. These include:

• connecting parts,
• constant monitoring mechanisms,
• additional dishes,
• thermometer,
• hoses,
• drain tap.

1. If there are drain valves on the steam tank and cube, the maintenance process will become much easier. In order to avoid having to assemble missing mechanisms during the cooking process, you need to buy everything you need in a kit.
2. A thermometer will be needed to measure temperature. It must be monitored at all stages of production, as it varies depending on the technology for preparing a particular drink.
3. A home moonshine still must be equipped with an emergency release valve for excess pressure. Without this element, it is very unsafe to operate the device.
4. When making a purchase, you need to keep in mind that collapsible models are much easier to clean. It is best to choose devices whose cube has a wide neck. This allows you to easily put your hand in there to thoroughly rinse the container after distillation.
5. All connections between mechanisms must be firmly soldered.
6. An electric moonshine device must have an emergency sensor that will allow you to turn off the power if necessary.

TOP 3 best column-type moonshine stills

Column-type moonshine stills are distinguished not only by increased productivity, but also by the excellent quality of the resulting raw materials. In 2021, three models were included in the ranking of the best devices in this category.

Wayne Wein ReForm 20 liters

This device appeared on the market relatively recently, but almost immediately earned high marks from experts..

Using this moonshine still, you can prepare truly high-quality alcohol of increased strength.

Increased productivity was achieved thanks to unique engineering developments and improvements to traditional distiller design.

In particular, in the coil, ordinary partitions were replaced with special ones. They distribute water flow in 5 different directions for improved cooling quality.

In addition, the device is distinguished by an increased drawer height (50 cm) . This provides better purification of alcohol vapors, but at the same time the dimensions of the device remain within acceptable limits, and it can be used in a regular kitchen.

The lid has a unique dome shape, which allows you to quickly and safely pour the mash into the distillation cube.

Specifications:

• cube volume 20 l;
• productivity 8 l/hour;
• height 123 cm.

pros

• high quality of assembly and welding of structural elements;
• extended equipment;
• very high productivity;
• allows you to obtain high-quality alcohol of increased strength;
• simple and convenient operation.

Minuses

• the faucet is not always fixed straight;
• takes up a lot of space when stored.

Dobry Zhar Distillation column Mayak 20 liters

A convenient and functional distillation column with a flow type of cooling is suitable for the production of high-quality homemade alcohol.

The high performance of the device allows you to obtain drinks in large quantities with minimal effort on the part of the user. All elements of the case are made of stainless steel.

This is a durable material that is resistant to corrosion and other aggressive environmental factors, so the column will last a really long time.

The device provides three degrees of cooling at once, and two drawers with three nozzles provide high-quality cleaning from impurities and fusel oils.

Thanks to this, the finished drink does not require re-distillation and has an increased strength.

Specifications:

• height 176 cm;
• cube volume 20 l;
• productivity 4 l/hour.

pros

• compact dimensions of the cube with high capacity;
• unique cooling technology ensures high-quality purification of fusel oil vapors;
• simple and understandable operating instructions;
• there is a thermometer and a drain tap;
• housing made of durable stainless steel.

Minuses

• high price;
• takes up a lot of space.

Phoenix Crystal 20 liters

Many users called this model of moonshine still one of the best for home use..

The capacity of the 20-liter distillation cube is enough to prepare a large amount of alcohol at a time, and unique cleaning and cooling technologies ensure excellent quality and strength of the finished product even without additional distillation.

The design of the device is completely collapsible, and the diameter of the cube neck allows you to quickly and efficiently clean the container after use.

The device body is made of stainless steel.

The kit includes a bimetallic thermometer that allows you to control the temperature inside the cube to prevent overheating of the raw materials.

Additionally, the device has an induction heating function.

Specifications:

• height 84 cm;
• cube volume 20 l;
• productivity 2 l/hour.

pros

• collapsible design makes the device easy to care for;
• high-quality purification of raw materials from fusel oils without additional distillation;
• affordable price combined with acceptable build quality;
• optimal performance for home use;
• easy operation (suitable even for beginners).

Minuses

• not very high quality welds;
• not always on sale.

First continuous distillation

• The container with mash () is placed on an electric or gas stove, and the maximum power is set. Reduce if the contents are too foamy, then gradually increase again.
• Cooling is turned on when the cube warms up to 60C.
• The heating intensity is reduced to a level corresponding to 120C after reaching 70C. Continuously select up to 1-5% in a stream (as long as you have enough patience).
• The liquid boils at 80-90C, the output strength is 75-80%. When it decreases to 50%, the power is increased to 200C. The alcohol content of the resulting “weak wine” reaches 650, the volume is 30-40% of the original.
• Raw alcohol is diluted with purified or boiled, cooled water to 30-40 C. Drinking components are dissolved in water to separate them from high-molecular carboxylic acids and fatty acid esters that form undesirable impurities. Canadian technology involves pre-blending - mixing different types of low-grade wine before the second stage of purification.

Softening with raw washed charcoal before the next stage is used for Tennessee whiskey, for example the brands “Jack Daniels”, “George Dickel” and takes 7-10 days in filtration units. Heavy substances are absorbed and aromatized by ash substances.

TOP 3 best moonshine stills with steamer

Moonshine stills equipped with a steamer allow you to produce alcohol of increased quality and strength at home. Despite the fact that almost all modern models are equipped with a steamer, users have identified 3 devices that deserve increased attention.

Pervach Elite-Aromat 14T

This model of moonshine still was specially created for maximum user convenience.

Using the device, you can obtain high-quality alcohol at home, although the device itself operates autonomously and with minimal participation from the owner.

The device is equipped with an excess pressure relief valve, so there is practically no risk of extreme temperature increases inside the distillation cube.

Despite its functionality and safety, the device is affordable, although the manufacturer did not skimp on materials.

All structural elements are made of high-strength stainless steel, so no toxins or harmful impurities get into the finished alcohol.

Additionally, there is a container for flavoring in the steamer.

Specifications:

• height 60 cm;
• cube volume 14 l;
• productivity 2 l/hour.

pros

• convenient to assemble and disassemble the device;
• The wide neck of the cube makes it easy to clean the device after use;
• affordable price;
• the standard design allows for independent upgrade of the device;
• housing made of high quality stainless steel.

Minuses

• sometimes there is a manufacturing defect;
• hard to find on sale.

Pervach Elite-Aromat 17T

Another successful model of moonshine still, which is perfect for beginners in moonshine brewing.

The manufacturer has specially created the most convenient and safe device with which you can get high-quality alcohol at home.

The housing is made of stainless steel and equipped with an overpressure relief valve.

A thermometer is built into the lid, with which the user can control the temperature inside the distillation cube.

The distillation container itself holds 17 liters of raw materials.

In combination with acceptable performance, this allows you to obtain a sufficient amount of high-quality alcohol in a short time, and the built-in steamer will ensure that the drink is cleaned of foreign impurities and fusel oils that give an unpleasant odor and taste.

Specifications:

• height 63 cm;
• weight 5 kg;
• neck diameter 24 cm.

pros

• there is a container for flavoring in the steamer;
• successful design facilitates operation and maintenance;
• affordable cost;
• allows you to obtain high-quality alcohol of increased strength;
• high-quality assembly and strong welds.

Minuses

• the alcohol meter does not always show correct readings;
• The photos on the official website do not correspond to reality.

MAGARYCH Magarych Mashkovsky Export 12

A distinctive feature of this moonshine still is its original appearance..

At the same time, the manufacturer did not forget about the functionality of the device. The body is made of stainless steel and is equipped with an electronic thermometer that accurately measures the temperature inside the distillation cube.

Another feature is the choice of fabric or leather trim, so the device will look attractive in any kitchen..

The design is collapsible, so after use the device can be easily disassembled and washed to remove any remaining raw materials.

To improve the quality of alcohol, the device has a steamer (also collapsible).

With its help, all harmful impurities and fusel oils are removed from the raw materials, so the finished product does not require additional distillation.

Specifications:

• cube volume 12 l;
• productivity 2 l/hour;
• height 60 cm.

pros

• optimal performance for home use;
• durable stainless steel body;
• there is a steamer for additional cleaning;
• original appearance;
• allows you to obtain high-quality alcohol of increased strength.

Minuses

• not always on sale;
• Most users called the package poor.

Recipes using oak parts

The best homemade moonshine whiskey recipes are prepared by infusing oak chips that have been specially roasted. At the same time, the aroma and taste are transferred to the drink:

• vanilla (roasting at 205°);
• slight smell of smoke and smoked meats (at a temperature of 215°);
• The almond flavor is obtained by roasting wood chips at 270°.

When infusing oak bark, it is difficult to achieve a similar aroma, so part of the vanilla pod, smoked fruit, charcoal, fried pearl barley, and natural coffee beans are added to the alcohol.

You can fry the wood chips to the desired color yourself:

• purchase oak slats and chop them, observing the required dimensions (the width corresponds to half the diameter of the container neck, and the length corresponds to 75% of the height of the container);
• wrap the raw materials tightly with foil;
• fry in the oven for 3 hours;
• remove the packaging and bring the wood chips to 3 types of frying (light, in which the workpieces acquire a straw color; with medium, brownish-yellow; strong, characterized by an almost black surface color).

Types of moonshine stills and which one is better?

There are several types of moonshine stills, which differ in design and method of operation.:

1. A classic distiller consists of a distillation cube and a cooling coil . This device is the simplest in design and, accordingly, inexpensive. But it should be borne in mind that in order to obtain high-quality alcohol in a distiller, the liquid will have to be distilled several times.
2. Brass column . The principle of operation is similar to the previous device, but due to the special design of the refrigerator, it allows you to obtain higher quality alcohol without impurities.
3. Models with steam chamber . They allow you to efficiently clean alcohol from impurities and get good moonshine without an unpleasant odor or taste.

Distillation columns are considered the highest quality and most modern.

They are large, but allow you to get the highest quality high-strength alcohol without repeated distillation.

Which brand distiller is better?

Despite the large number of companies producing distillers, today it is possible to distinguish brands that differ significantly from others in the quality of their products. These include the following brands:

• ALKASH is the most popular Russian brand. More than 4 years on the moonshine still market. Own production. Good advertising support. Wide range of devices. Moonshine stills thought out to the smallest detail with maximum equipment are sold not only in Russia, but also abroad. The company has its own branded YouTube channel. Many bloggers such as Sanya Kulinich, Sanya Samogon, Vitalson have been working on ALKASH moonshine stills for several years. ALKASH company is also actively developing its franchise.
• Phoenix is ​​a popular brand of moonshine stills that has managed to outperform other companies on the Russian market. Noteworthy is the fact that this company sells its products primarily through an online store. This popularity is explained by high reliability and a large range of products.
• “Magarych” is distinguished by the fact that at a fairly low price it sells high-quality moonshine stills with original design and ratification columns. However, according to user reviews, they have a shorter service life. However, this is offset by the volumes that can be produced during this time.
• "Wein" is a well-known German company that produces good and reliable moonshine stills, characterized by strict filtration methods. This allows you to obtain a product of fairly high quality. In addition, each model is universal in its own way. In addition to the distiller itself, they can be equipped with steamers or distillation columns, or both at the same time. Peak productivity is within 7 liters per hour, which other manufacturers cannot achieve.
• Dobry Zhar is a domestic manufacturer that specializes in the production of good and inexpensive distillers intended for use among a wide range of consumers. Even the most budget products are distinguished by quite solid and high-quality execution. Customer reviews indicate that even the most inexpensive device of this brand has good flavor and aroma characteristics.
• “Pervach” is a brand under which convenient and compact budget distillers are produced. They are produced on the basis of the Ural Household Products Plant and are distinguished by their low cost with fairly good characteristics and quality of the resulting product.

What is affected by the number of steamers?

The activity of the steamer imitates secondary distillation, with significant savings not only in the energy and time of the consumer, but also in energy and water consumption. Operating the device with two similar devices allows you to:

• get higher and better results;
• significantly increase the strength of moonshine;
• flavor the product at your discretion;
• prevent overfilling of one of the devices.

Such devices are bought by lovers of noble drinks: whiskey, brandy or rakia and chacha. Drinks obtained in this way retain the taste of the original raw material. A true connoisseur of a strong homemade drink will not be embarrassed by the fact that the cost of such a device will be higher than the standard model.

Some manufacturers produce products with three or more similar devices, but this is not for everyone - they no longer have anything to do with traditional moonshine stills. The number of dry steamers is not an indicator of quality; their location in relation to each other, as well as to the main distillation tank and refrigeration unit, is of great importance.

The best mash columns

Knight

Price - from 8490 rub.

Manufacturer's official website

In the minimum configuration (15 liter tank) Vityaz costs 9 thousand rubles. Simply fantastic. The problem is that by modern standards, 15 liters is incredibly small. For comfortable distillation, you need a tank of at least 25 liters, and preferably even more.

If you already have experience in preparing drinks, I would not recommend considering Vityaz as the next step: thin steam pipes and film refrigerators do not inspire confidence. But if you have a desire to try driving on a mash column, but don’t want to invest heavily in the machine, Vityaz can be a good transitional option between the classics and column machines. So far only fourth place.

Magnum Pro 3

Price - from 17,200 rubles.

Manufacturer's official website

The updated version of the Magnum line of devices definitely deserves attention. It is inexpensive, has a wide range of models (from 20 to 50 l), a gin basket and a selection unit as standard (!). Really serious advantages.

The disadvantages include rather flimsy handles, a Dimroth reflux condenser (while 99% of modern manufacturers have switched to a more efficient shell-and-tube one) and a rather poor set - there are no measuring cylinders, a silicone hose for collecting the product, a wine meter and only 4 meters of hose for cooling. A beginner will have to fork out for these accessories, which will add at least 1 thousand to the cost of the device.

But overall, the device is still excellent and deservedly takes its place in the top three.

Rodnik Pro 2

Price - from 9490 rub.

Manufacturer's official website

For those who do not want to pay a lot of money, but want to work on a full-fledged mash column, I can safely recommend Rodnik Pro 2. The manufacturer has brought the second version of the device to perfection, making important point changes to the design:

• a clamp connection has appeared, allowing the use of additional equipment (gin-cosine, diopter, drawer);
• the handles are covered with bakelite - now you can handle the hot tank without oven mitts;
• Instead of a bimetallic thermometer, an electronic one with a probe immersed in the tank is installed.
• safety valve for safe on-site distillation.

The device is easy to use, easy to learn and is capable of producing a clean, strong product at high speed. Price - only 10 thousand rubles. for the 30 liter version! Above all praise.

But there are also disadvantages. The column is not dismountable, which creates problems when washing. The package does not include water inlet/outlet hoses and a thermometer - you will have to buy it with your own money. Nevertheless, the excellent price and set of advantages allow us to safely put the device in second place.

Wein ReForm

Price - from 16,990 rubles.

Manufacturer's official website

The most popular moonshine still on Yandex.Market according to users. In terms of price/quality ratio, the device is beyond competitors. Yes, it does not have the most powerful coolers, however, it can do everything the same as its more “pumped up” brothers: obtain moonshine of maximum strength (96°), flavor drinks, distill at a peak speed of 10 l/hour.

Warranty - 10 years! This suggests that the manufacturer is confident in his brainchild. Smaller advantages include 2 water connection options to choose from (quick connectors or plumbing connections), a durable dome lid, a thermometer probe immersed inside the tank, etc.

The engineers worked hard to make the device a leader in the mash column segment. And they coped with their task brilliantly - better functionality for less money. Well-deserved first place.

comparison table

Criterias of choice

In order not to be unfounded, I will list a list of criteria on the basis of which the places were distributed.

1. Price.
   The lower the better. Important, but not a determining factor. For example, a more expensive device may be higher in the rating if it is better according to other criteria.
2. Safety.
   If the device has a good safety system (burst valve, etc.), this will be a big advantage.
3. Performance.
   The bigger, the better. Performance is assessed separately within each category.
4. Versatility.
   Does the device work on any type of stove? Can it be distilled away from running water? Collapsible, has several operating modes? This is just a plus.
5. Opportunity for modernization.
   This applies primarily to the first two categories. Premium equipment usually comes with maximum configuration.
6. Equipment.
   The richer it is, the greater the chances of the device being at the top of the rating.

Distillation columns with a selection unit

This list does not include such moonshine stills as Topol 2.0, Bulat Bogatyr 2, Dobry Zhar Absolut or Soyuz 2-inch still. Since these models are not much different from the columns presented in the previous category, except perhaps in diameter and, accordingly, productivity. With these machines you can prepare high-quality moonshine with a strength above 90%, but you are unlikely to be able to obtain a rectification certificate without purchasing additional devices.

To obtain pure alcohol with a strength of 96.6%, a moonshiner cannot do without a selection unit. It comes in steam and liquid versions, some manufacturers install the first, others prefer the second option, but the most well-thought-out devices have two units. So we'll talk about them.

Moonshine still "SCHNAPSER XO4". Price from 26,990 ₽

In the new Schnapser XO4 apparatus, the manufacturer focused on modifying the distillation cube, which is equipped with all devices of this brand. Let us remind you: the drain valve has changed, the lid has become dome-shaped, and an outlet for the heating element has appeared. Externally, the cube looks quite presentable, but customers still have questions about the thickness of the metal and the quality of the welds.

As for the column itself, everything is a little more optimistic. The drawer has become 10 cm longer and has caught up in size with its closest competitors. The manufacturer completes the device with a casing, but in our opinion, it would be better to add an on-load tap-changer and an on-load tap-changer to the package instead, which you will now have to purchase yourself.

The declared maximum productivity of the device in the first distillation mode is 12 liters per hour. It doesn’t look very fair, given the modest size of the refrigerator: 25 cm. What we like is the diopter with a built-in basket for aromatization. A truly original and useful device.

Moonshine still LUXSTAHL 7M. Price from 27,900 ₽

Luxstal is perhaps the most famous manufacturer, whose cubes power the lion's share of premium segment devices. The thickness of the metal and the quality of welding are at the same level here, the only negative is the thermometer, which is not installed in the lid, but directly at the base of the tank. This works for brewers, but it's not the best solution for moonshiners.

A device with a liquid selection unit is suitable for the preparation of both aromatic distillates and rectified distillates. The set includes a false bottom, a parrot, two drawers and a special attachment point. Of course, such a kit will cost a little more than a half-empty Schnapser kit, but you will have everything you need to get a strong drink. Among the unusual details is a glass drawer, which adds a presentable appearance to the device.

Moonshine still "WEIN 6 PRO". Price from 25,990 ₽

Wayne was one of the first manufacturers to combine two selection units in one apparatus. The device is really useful and is loved by many distillers. As for the design features of the device, there are also a number of features. Thus, the distillation cube from Luxstal does not have the familiar ridge, and the tap is shifted under the handle (traditionally for Vane). The refrigerator in rectification mode is too close to the heating drawer. Not critical, but may not have the best effect on the efficiency of the cooler.

Among the pleasant nuances: the length of the refrigerator is 27.5 cm, which is slightly longer than the two previous devices, there is drawer insulation and an on-load tap-changer. Yes, the manufacturer was not greedy and did not skimp on this important detail.