It is important that the grain spirits be as neutral as possible (devoid of congeners) to ensure that no undesirable flavors be imparted to the gin. In addition to the kettle, some gin stills have a refinement section (as many as six plates) above the kettle for flavor stability and enrichment. Indirect steam head is applied and the various essential oils are distilled over during the entire distillation cycle. The first portion (heads) and the last portion of the cycle (tails) are not included in the product. Only the heard of the run is used and it represents approximately an 85% recovery of the original alcohol concentration in the kettle. This, of course, varies with the type of product that is desired by the producer. Some distillers, to avoid thermal decomposition of the delicate flavors and to acquire a degree of softness, conduct distillation under reduced pressure at a temperature of about 135oF. London Dry Gin is produced in accordance with the procedures described in this paragraph.

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