Last week, I embarked on a journey beyond the world of wine and into the realm of distillation. Hosted by Quintessence Enterprises ltd, a leader in wine and beverage education, this two-day seminar was an eye-opening experience. It revealed the science, history, and craftsmanship behind distilled spirits, offering a deeper understanding of an ancient practice that continues to shape cultures today.
The godmother to spirituality
A special tribute goes to Professor Maria Zervou. As a Professor of Oenology, her expertise and passion transformed what could have been a purely technical seminar into an inspiring experience. She wove together science, tradition, and sensory exploration, making even the most intricate concepts accessible. Thanks to her, what started as a curiosity for spirits turned into a profound appreciation for the alchemy of distillation.
But what does a wine guy really learn when he steps into the world of spirits? Let’s dive in.
The Story of Distillation
The seminar started with a fascinating look at the history of distillation. We traced its origins to ancient civilizations and explored how the process evolved. From early methods to modern technology, it was fascinating to see how distillation has developed over the centuries.
A Glimpse into the Past
The origins of distillation trace back thousands of years, with early evidence found in Mesopotamian alchemical texts and Egyptian perfume-making techniques. However, it was the medieval Arab scholars, particularly Al-Kindi and Al-Razi, who refined the process, setting the stage for distilling alcohol. By the time knowledge spread to Europe, monks and scholars embraced distillation for medicinal and religious purposes, producing aqua vitae—the “water of life.”
Read on: A Brief History of Distillation and Its Connection to Wine
Understanding the Science
At its core, distillation is a process of transformation—turning a fermented liquid into a concentrated spirit by applying heat and separating its volatile components. Unlike wine, which stops at fermentation, spirits go through an additional step that extracts and refines alcohol, amplifying both strength and character.
How Spirits Are Made
The journey begins with raw materials—grapes, grains, or fruits—that undergo fermentation, converting sugars into alcohol. The fermented liquid is then heated, allowing ethanol to evaporate at a lower temperature than water. This vapor is collected and condensed, resulting in a liquid with higher alcohol content.
The type of distillation—whether single, double, or even triple—affects the final profile of the spirit. Traditional pot stills, used for Cognac and whisky, retain more aromatic complexity, while continuous column stills create lighter, purer distillates. Factors such as grape variety, soil, climate, and even storage conditions before distillation all influence the final product.
Read on about The Role of Aging in Spirits
A crucial takeaway: Distillation isn’t just about making alcohol stronger—it’s about shaping its identity. Just like in winemaking, terroir and craftsmanship play a defining role. A well-made spirit is not just an extraction of alcohol, but an expression of the ingredients and traditions behind it.
Spirits of the Mediterranean: Grape Marc Distillates & Ouzo
Grapes are not just for wine. The journey from vineyard to bottle is remarkable, but what happens to the remains after pressing? This is where grape marc distillates come in—a fascinating fusion of tradition and craftsmanship.
Read on: Ouzo: The Spirit of Greek Tradition
Tasting Spirits: A Journey of the Senses
The seminar wasn’t all theory. We also had the chance to taste a variety of single varietals zivania, from well-known brand KEO crafted in small batches. This sensory experience deepened our appreciation for the nuances of distilled spirits, revealing how production methods and raw ingredients influence flavor.
Maria expertly guided us through the tasting, highlighting key elements to look for in each sample—from aroma and texture to the delicate balance of sweetness and warmth. We explored the subtle differences between commercially produced zivania and artisanal versions, discovering layers of complexity that might otherwise go unnoticed. Her insights helped us refine our palates, transforming casual sips into a more mindful exploration of taste and tradition.
This hands-on component of the seminar underscored the artistry behind distillation, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and sensory experience. Each sip told a story, linking us to centuries-old techniques and the passionate individuals who keep this tradition alive.
Distillation in Action: A Live Demonstration
One of the highlights of the seminar was the live distillation demonstration at Ktima Gerolemo Winery. Watching the process unfold in a working winery setting brought everything we had learned to life. From the careful heating of the fermented grape pomace to the first fragrant drops of distillate, we saw firsthand how tradition and precision shape the spirit. The gleaming copper stills, the rhythmic bubbling, and the slow collection of zivania made it clear—distillation is both a science and an art.
The Bigger Picture: Spirits and Society
We also discussed the cultural and economic role of spirits. The seminar covered how alcoholic beverages influence cultures and economies. It also touched on the importance of responsible consumption in today’s world.
Beyond the Glass
Enjoying Tsipouro, Tsikoudia, or Zivania involves rituals, friendships, and stories. Whether savored with mezze or around a fire, they capture the soul of the vineyard uniquely.
How does a wine lover become spiritual? By exploring the grapes beyond the bottle into the realm of distillation.
Discover the Spirit Behind the Spirits
This seminar was more than just an introduction to distillation—it was a journey into the heart of craftsmanship and tradition. From understanding the delicate science behind spirits to appreciating the artistry involved, I walked away with a newfound respect for the process. If you’ve ever wondered what makes a great spirit truly special, this is an experience worth exploring.
