Category Archives: Uncategorized

Is Home Distillation Legal in Australia?

Traditional Portuguese copper still used for botanical distillation displayed with Australian herbs and educational notes on a rustic timber bench.

It’s one of the first questions people ask before purchasing a copper still, and understandably so. The answer is straightforward, but there are a few important distinctions. The short version is: Distilling essential oils and hydrosols is legal in Australia. Distilling alcohol is subject to federal excise laws. Understanding the difference will help you make […]

How to Set Up Your Copper Still for the First Time

Traditional Portuguese copper still assembled and ready for botanical distillation with rosemary, lavender, rye flour seal and cooling water connections on a rustic timber bench.

Your still has arrived. The copper gleams, the craftsmanship is obvious and you’re probably eager to start distilling. Before you load your first harvest of lavender, rosemary or rose petals, taking the time to set your still up properly will make your first distillation smoother, safer and more successful. This guide walks you through the […]

Essential Oils vs Hydrosols — What’s the Difference and How Do You Make Them?

Comparison of essential oils and hydrosols produced through copper alembic distillation, showing a traditional copper still, separated essential oil and hydrosol, and their key differences and uses.

If you’re new to distillation, you’ve probably come across both terms — essential oils and hydrosols — and wondered exactly how they differ. They come from the same distillation process, but they’re very different products with different properties, uses and production requirements. Understanding the distinction will help you decide what you actually want to make […]