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Title:
A METHOD OF REMOVING ONE OR MORE COMPOUNDS FROM A DISTILLATE, AND SYSTEMS AND APPARATUS THEREFOR
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2018/182430
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
The specification describes methods, systems, and apparatus to remove compounds from a distillate which may adversely affect the flavor profile of an alcoholic beverage. In preferred forms a treatment substance is jetted into a distillate to promote volatisation of the compounds. A preferred form of the invention provides a unit which is configured to jet predetermined aliquots of a treatment substance into a distillate.

Inventors:
VAN ROOYEN MALAN (NZ)
Application Number:
PCT/NZ2018/050037
Publication Date:
October 04, 2018
Filing Date:
March 26, 2018
Export Citation:
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Assignee:
VAN ROOYEN MALAN (NZ)
International Classes:
C12G3/08; C12H1/12
Domestic Patent References:
WO2016121542A12016-08-04
Foreign References:
US9200243B22015-12-01
US3698913A1972-10-17
US2054006A1936-09-08
US20070248730A12007-10-25
US20100297290A12010-11-25
Other References:
TIMBOL, M. R. G. ET AL.: "Effect of multiple distillation and head fraction removal on the volatile content of distillate from fermented coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) water", INTERNATIONAL FOOD RESEARCH JOURNAL, vol. 19, no. 2, 2012, pages 691 - 696, XP055560160
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
SEOW, Wing et al. (NZ)
Download PDF:
Claims:
WHAT I CLAIM IS:

1. A method of producing an alcoholic beverage for consumption by a human by removing one or more compounds from a distillate, including the steps of: i) performing a first distillation process on a liquid mixture to produce a distillate; ii) jetting a treatment substance into the distillate.

2. The method as claimed in claim 1, including the step of preparing a liquid mixture from a base mixture having a comparatively low alcohol content.

3. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the step of preparing the liquid mixture involves fermenting a base mixture. 4. The method as claimed in claim 3, wherein the step of preparing the base mixture or liquid mixture includes adding flavoring agents.

5. The method as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 4, including the step of distilling the base

mixture produce the liquid mixture, and wherein the step of distilling the base mixture occurs after a / the fermentation step. 6. The method as claimed in claim 5, including the step of collecting the distillate.

7. The method as claimed in claim 6, wherein the step of collecting the distillate uses a condenser.

8. The method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the treatment substance is water.

9. The method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, including the step of jetting a second aliquot of the treatment substance into the distillate. 10. The method as claimed in claim 9, including the step of stirring or agitating the distillate after at least one aliquot has been jetted into the distillate.

11. The method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the treatment substance is jetted into the distillate incrementally.

12. The method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the treatment substance has a temperature in the range of 16-45°C when it is jetted into the distillate.

13. A system for producing an alcoholic beverage for consumption by a human by removing one or more compounds from a distillate, wherein the system is configured to perform the method claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. A system for use in producing an alcoholic beverage for consumption by a human by removing one or more compounds from a distillate, the system including a reservoir, a dosing apparatus, wherein the reservoir and dosing apparatus are configured with respect to each other to in-use jet a treatment substance into a distillate in the reservoir.

15. The system as claimed in claim 14, wherein the dosing apparatus is configured to jet the

treatment substance into the reservoir incrementally.

16. The system as claimed in either one of claims 14 or 15, wherein the reservoir contains a volume of the treatment substance.

17. The system as claimed in claim 16, wherein the treatment substance is water.

18. The method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, including the further step of preforming a second distillation process after the treatment substance has been jetted into the distillate.

Description:
A METHOD OF REMOVING ONE OR MORE COMPOUNDS FROM A DISTILLATE, AND SYSTEMS AND

APPARATUS THEREFOR

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a method of removing one or more compounds from a distillate, and systems and apparatus therefor.

BACKGROUND ART

Distillation is the process of separating a mixture of liquids into different fractions. The fractions may contain a wide range of compounds, potentially at different concentrations. Accordingly, distillation finds widespread use in a variety of important industries. One particularly important application of distillation techniques is the production of alcoholic beverages. In these applications, the distillation process is used to create a fraction having a comparatively higher alcohol content than the starting liquid / mixture. The comparatively higher alcohol content fraction is often referred to as a 'distillate'.

The starting mixture can be prepared from a number of different ingredients. The characteristics and properties of the starting ingredients contribute to the flavor profile of the alcoholic beverage produced using the distillation method. However, starting ingredients generally include a carbohydrate source (such as sugar) in combination with yeast. A fermentation process by the yeast is used to produce a solution having a comparatively low alcoholic content. Natural limitations to yeast production prohibit production of a solution having an alcohol content over approximately 14-15% using fermentation. As a result, a distillation process is used to produce a liquid having a comparatively higher alcohol content than that which it is possible to produce using a fermentation processes only.

However, distillation processes indiscriminately transfer compound(s) into the distillate if those are volatile at the temperature(s) at which distillation occurs. Therefore, a distillate will normally contain a number of compounds which contribute detrimentally to the flavor profile of the distillate (and eventual alcoholic beverage made using that distillate). There are a range of techniques known to reduce or eliminate the presence of undesirable compounds in a distillate and beverages produced using a distillation process. For instance, a distillate may be treated using a physical filter media such as a carbon filter.

However, this process has a number of inherit disadvantages. For instance, the filter can affect the flavor, such as by removing compounds which would otherwise contribute to a distillate's flavor e.g. the filter removes compounds which provide a drink with (or contribute to) its desired flavor. The filtering process can also be time consuming, and it is not uncommon for at home filtering systems to take up to 72 hours to filter between 7 to 8 liters of distillate. This increases the labour / time involved in producing a volume of distillate and therefore makes the process less appealing.

These and other problems deter distillers, particularly at-home distillers, from using filters. As a result, substandard and / or dangerous alcoholic beverages can be consumed. This is obviously a health and safety issue which should be addressed.

A second method to reduce or eliminate compounds from a distillate is to perform a second distillation to produce a second distillate, and potentially even a third distillation to produce a third distillate. However, these processes can be time consuming and / or introduce additional costs. Accordingly, it is as an object of the present invention to provide an improved distillation method, and / or method of producing an alcohol beverage using a distillation process.

In addition, it is an objective of the present invention to provide systems and / or apparatus for use in the methods according to the invention.

It is a further objective of the present invention to address the forgoing problems or to at least provide the public with a useful choice.

All references, including any patents or patent applications cited in this specification are hereby incorporated by reference. No admission is made that any reference constitutes prior art. The discussion of the references states what their authors assert, and the applicants reserve the right to challenge the accuracy and pertinency of the cited documents. It will be clearly understood that, although a number of prior art publications are referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that any of these documents form part of the common general knowledge in the art, in New Zealand or in any other country.

Throughout this specification, the word "comprise", or variations thereof such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps.

Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of example only. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of removing one or more compounds from a distillate, the method including the step of jetting a treatment substance into the distillate. According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a system for use in removing one or more compounds from a distillate, the system including a reservoir, a dosing apparatus, wherein the reservoir and dosing apparatus are configured with respect to each other to in-use jet a treatment substance into a distillate in the reservoir.

In preferred embodiments, the present invention relates to methods, systems and / or apparatus for use in producing alcoholic beverages for consumption by humans. Reference herein will be made as such. However, this should not be seen as limiting on the scope of the present invention as alternatives are also envisaged as being within the scope of the present invention. For instance, it is envisaged that the present technology could be used in removing compounds from a distillate to have desired flavor / taste profiles such as for use in a foodstuff, perfume, air freshener or the like.

In an embodiment, the method may include the step of preparing a base mixture. The base mixture may be any liquid or other substance which can be distilled to produce at least one fraction. The base mixture may be referred to as "a wash" by one skilled in the art.

In a preferred embodiment the base mixture may be a solution containing sugar (carbohydrates) and other ingredients to provide a desired flavour profile to a distillate produced using the base mixture. Yeast may be added to the solution, and a fermentation process used to produce a liquid mixture having a comparatively low alcohol content (%abv). It is envisaged that the base mixture may be produced by dissolution of a sugar such as sucrose in water. However, it is also envisaged that other carbohydrate sources may be used such as fruit and / or vegetable mixtures.

In addition, flavoring agents such as herbs, spices, etc. may be added to the base mixture, and / or the liquid produced by fermenting the base mixture. Preparation of the base mixture and liquid is as should be understood by one skilled in the art. In an embodiment, the method according to the invention includes the step of performing a distillation process on the liquid mixture to produce a distillate.

The distillation process may occur using any known distillation technique and / or apparatus. The parameters of the distillation process, and features of the distillation technique and apparatus are as should be understood by one skilled in the art.

The distillation process includes the step of collecting at least a portion of vapor produced by the distillation process. The vapor is condensed using a condenser to produce the distillate.

Throughout the present specification reference to the term "jetting" should be understood as meaning introducing a stream of the treatment substance into the distillate. Preferably, jetting of the treatment substance into the distillate occurs under pressure, so as to create a comparatively fast flow of the treatment substance and/or be of a sufficient force to agitate the distillate.

Without being limited to a specific mechanism, the inventor postulates that jetting of the treatment substance into the distillate may cause or promote volatilisation of at least one compound in the distillate. Volatilisation may provide an agitation effect. It is also possible that the process of jetting the treatment substance adjusts the equilibrium of the distillate towards a position in which favors or promotes volatilization of the compound(s).

Reducing or eliminating of compounds from a distillate may be useful to reduce or eliminate undesirable compounds from the distillate, which may provide an alcoholic beverage having a more pleasant or desirable flavor profile and perceived taste.

In addition, the present invention may reduce or eliminate the need to perform second and / or third distillation steps to reduce or eliminate compounds from a distillate. Accordingly, the invention may reduce the costs and time associated with producing an alcoholic beverage having a desired flavor and / or taste profile. Yet a further advantage of the present invention is that it provides an alternative to using physical filter media such as charcoal filters, to remove compounds from a distillate. Again, this may reduce the costs and time associated with producing an alcoholic beverage having a desired flavor and / or taste profile. It may also improve the environmental sustainability of producing alcoholic beverages by eliminating use of consumables such as carbon / charcoal filters. Alternatively, the present invention may be better suited to reducing or eliminating at least one compound from a distillate. As a result, the invention may produce an alcoholic beverage having a desired flavor and / or taste profile.

Throughout the present specification, reference to the term 'treatment substance' should be understood as meaning a substance which can and is jetted into the distillate.

In an embodiment, the treatment substance may promote or cause compounds to evaporate or volatilize out of the distillate.

In an embodiment, the treatment substance may be water. This treatment substance is advantageous as it does not provide an undesirable contribution to the flavor of the alcohol. In addition, water is safe to drink and therefore does not pose a health risk to those people that may consume a beverage produced according to the invention.

Water may also be useful as it can be at least partially removed from the distillate using a second distillation process.

It is also envisaged that other treatment substances may be used. For instance, air may be injected into the distillate to increase the volatility of undesirable compounds from the distillate.

In an embodiment, the treatment substance may be pre-treated, e.g. water may be filtered and / or distilled, prior to being jetted into the distillate.

In addition, it is envisaged that the treatment substance may include one or more additives which further promote the volatilization of compounds from the distillate. In an embodiment, the treatment substance may have a temperature in the range 10 - 65°C when it is jetted into the distillate.

In an embodiment, the step of jetting the treatment substance into the distillate may occur incrementally.

Throughout the present specification, reference to the term 'incrementally' should be understood as meaning "in a step-wise manner". For instance, aliquots of the treatment substance may be jetted into the distillate sequentially. In other words, the method may include jetting of multiple volumes of the treatment substance into the distillate.

In combination, each of the aliquots provide a desired volume for the treatment substance to be jetted into the distillate. In an embodiment, a period of time is provided between each of the aliquots. The period of time may be any amount of time such as between 2 minutes to 40 minutes.

In addition, it is also envisaged that different periods of time are provided between each aliquot. For instance, the period of time may decrease or increase between subsequent aliquots e.g. the following may be used :

• a period of 2 minutes is provided between the first aliquot and the second aliquot, and a period of 5 m inutes is provided between the second aliquot and the third aliquot; or

• a period of 10 m inutes is provided between the first aliquot and the second aliquot, and a period of 2 minutes is provided between the second aliquot and the third aliquot It is envisaged that the period of time is sufficient to substantially or completely allow bubbles created by jetting to disappear. The bubbles contain volatiles which are being removed from the distillate by the step-wise introduction of the treatment substance.

It is also envisaged that the jet treatment process can be easily upscaled to accommodate larger batches liquids to be treated by the method of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a flow chart showing steps in a representative method according to an aspect of the present invention; Figure 2 is a table summarizing results of analysis of samples produced according to the

invention;

Figure 3 is a chart showing the result of the table of figure 2;

Figure 4 is a chart showing concentrations of selected compounds as shown in Figures 2 and 3;

Figure 5A is a chart showing concentration of compounds present in samples produced by jetting a comparatively cold treatment substance according to the present invention;

Figure 5B is a chart showing concentration of compounds present in samples produced by jetting a comparatively hot treatment substance according to the present invention;

Figure 6 is a table summarizing sensory evaluations of samples produced according to the

method used in the present invention; Figure 7 is a first perspective view of an apparatus according to an aspect of the invention;

Figure 8 is a second perspective view of an apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention;

Figure 9 is a first side view of an apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention;

Figure 10 is a second side view of an apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention;

Figure 11 is a top view of an apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention;

Figure 12 is a side view of an apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention having a cover in place;

Figure 13 is a second side view of an apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention having a cover in place;

Figure 14 is a side cross-sectional view of an apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention;

Figure 15 is a perspective view of an apparatus according to an aspect of the present invention in use;

Figure 16 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 17 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 18 is an exploded view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 19 is a top view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 20 is a bottom view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 21 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 22 is a side view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 23 is a further perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 24 is a further perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 25 is a top view of the user interface of an alternate embodiment of the present invention

Figure 26 is a representative GC trace showing identified peaks; Figure 27 is a chart showing the total impurities for the "first further set of samples" before and after processing with different jetting treatments according to an aspect of the present invention;

Figure 28 is a chart showing the overall impurities in the distilled "second further set of samples" prepared by the laboratory before and after jetting treatment of the present invention;

Figure 29 is a chart showing the first distillation of the "second further set of samples" prepared by the laboratory, and effect of jetting treatment of the present invention;

Figure 30 is a chart showing the second distillation of the "second further set of samples"

prepared by the laboratory after jetting treatment of the present invention; Figure 31 is a table summarising GC analysis of samples produced according to an aspect of the invention;

Figure 32 is a table summarizing the mass balance on ethanol for water injection and redistillation of the "second further set of samples" prepared by the laboratory;

Figure 33 is a table showing various nozzle sizes tested at various pressures according to the present invention; and

Figure 33 is a chart showing the results of the nozzle sizes tested as shown in Figure 31.

BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Method of Reducing or Eliminating a Compound Referring first to Figure 1 which shows the representative steps in a method of reducing or eliminating a compound from a distillate. The method of Figure 1 is adapted to produce a distillate which is, or may be used as an ingredient in, a beverage for consumption by a person.

At step 1 a wash is prepared using a method as should be known to one skilled in the art. A

representative method of preparing a wash is described below in relation to validation of the invention.

Preparing the wash may involve adding ingredients or additives which may provide a desirable flavour or taste to the distillate or a beverage made therefrom. At step 2, a distillation process is performed using a distillation system. The details of the distillation process vary according to the size of apparatus, heat source, volume of wash, and alcohol

concentration. These variables are as should be known to known skilled in the art. The distillation process may be performed using a system and apparatus therefor as described below. Alternatively, the distillation process may be performed using any suitable apparatus. The distillation process involves collecting the distillate produced.

At step three, a treatment substance in the form of water is jetted into the distillate collected at step 2. An optional fourth step (step 4) - not shown in the Figures, may be used in which the distillate is redistilled after the treatment substance has been jetted therein.

Further aspects of the present invention should become clearer from the following discussion. First Embodiment

Referring now to Figures 9 to 11, there is provided a dosing apparatus (100) according to an aspect of the present invention. The dosing apparatus (100) includes a main body (102) which defines a cavity (104).

The main body (102) generally has a frusto-conical shape with a lower portion (106) tapering towards a lower opening (108) into the cavity (104). A skirt (110) is fitted over the lower portion (106). The skirt (110) is formed from a flexible or otherwise deformable material, for instance, the skirt may be constructed of rubber. A top plate (112) is secured to the top of main body (102) so as to provide an upper limit to the cavity (104).

The dosing apparatus (100) includes an extractor assembly (120), a valve assembly (130) and a controller (140).

The extractor assembly (120) is configured to generate a flow of air out of the cavity (104) in-use. The extractor assembly (120) includes an extractor conduit (122) which is connected to an aperture (not shown) in the top plate (112). A flow tube (124) is attached to the extractor conduit (122). A flow generator (126) is attached to an end of the flow tube (124). The flow generator (126) may be any device which can create a flow of air through the flow tube (124) such as a fan or impeller.

In the illustrated embodiment, the flow generator (126) is attached to an inlet end (127) of the flow tube (124). However, the flow generator (126) may also be attached to the outlet end (128) of the flow tube (124) or to any point between the inlet end (127) and the outlet end (128).

In-use operation of the flow generator (126) creates a flow of air through the flow tube (124) in the direction of inlet end (127) towards outlet end (128). This causes suction through the extractor conduit (122) to draw air from the cavity (104) through the extractor conduit (122) and into the flow tube (124). Air travelling through the extractor conduit (122) and into the flow tube (124) may exit the flow tube (124) via the outlet end (128). Thereby, the extractor assembly (120) provides a mechanism to remove air (in volatiles contained therein) from the cavity (104). The valve assembly (130) includes a connector (132) which is configured to connect to a conduit (not illustrated in the figures) which connects the dosing apparatus (100) to reservoir of a treatment substance (not shown in the figures). For instance, the connector (132) may be a screw thread, clip-fit, or other connector which can connect to a conduit such as a hose.

The valve assembly (130) also includes a valve (134) which may be ball-type valve or another valve as should be known to one skilled in the art.

An actuator (136) is configured to move the valve (134) between an open configuration and a closed configuration.

In the open configuration a fluid may flow through the connector (132) and the valve (134). This enables the dosing apparatus (100) to jet a treatment substance. In the closed configuration the valve (134) prevents fluid flow through the connector (132) and the valve (134).

The dosing mechanism includes a dispensing conduit (138) connected to the valve (134). A nozzle (139) is connected to the dispensing conduit (138) at end distal to the valve (134).

It is also envisaged that the nozzle (139) may be omitted therefore the end of the dispensing conduit (138) simply provides an aperture through which fluid the treatment substance may flow.

The dosing apparatus (100) includes a ventilation arrangement configured to provide a flow of fresh air into the cavity (104). In the illustrated embodiment, the ventilation arranged is provided by an aperture (150) formed in the top plate (112). The ventilation conduit (152) is connected to the aperture (150). The ventilation conduit (152) has an outlet (154) which is distal to the aperture (150). In-use the ventilation conduit (152) facilitates fresh air or other gases being provided into the cavity (104) distal to an inlet (not illustrated) to the extractor conduit (122).

The controller (140) is connected to the actuator (136) and the flow generator (126). In-use, the controller (140) is configured to engage the actuator (136) to move the valve between the open and closed positions, to thereby control fluid flow through the valve. In addition, the controller (140) can turn the flow generator (126) on and off to create a flow of air out of the cavity (104).

The controller (140) may be pre-programmed with predetermined programs for the actuator (136) and / or the flow generator. For instance, the programs may include instructions to control components of the dosing apparatus (100) to perform at least one of the steps of:

To dispense an aliquot of treatment substance;

To dispense multiple aliquots of treatment substance sequentially;

To wait a pre-determined time period between dispensing aliquots of treatment substance; To vary the time period between any two aliquots of treatment substance; and • To dispense two or more aliquots of treatment substance which have a different volume to each other.

In addition, the controller (140) may have a timer function. For instance, the timer function may be used to determine how long the flow generator (126) has been in operation, and / or how much fluid has flowed through the valve (134). In the illustrated embodiment the timer may be an electronic circuit (not shown) within the controller (140). However, the timer function may be provided by alternatives such as a flow controlled valve which determines the volume of an aliquot of treatment substance.

The controller may also be configured to enable a user to vary parameters of the dosing apparatus. This may enable optimisation of its use or to better suit a user's needs.

The controller may include a user interface (not shown) which may take the form of at least one of a key pad, one or more dials and one or more switches. The interface enables a user to control operation of the dosing apparatus (100) such as selecting a pre-programmed program, entering the parameters of a customised program, or to switch the doing apparatus (100) on or off.

The controller (140) includes a display such as an LCD screen or LCD lights (neither shown). The display is configured to display the current state of the dosing apparatus (100) e.g. whether a program is in progress or completed.

The dosing apparatus (100) includes a sensor (not shown) configured to determine a level of fluid in a container with which the dosing apparatus (100) may be used. In this embodiment, the sensor (not shown) is connected to the controller (140). On detection by the sensor that the level of fluid within the container exceeds a pre-determined level, the controller (140) engages the actuator (136) to move the valve to a closed position. This will reduce the chances of, or completely prevent, inadvertent overflowing of the container during use of the dosing apparatus (100). Treatment System

Referring now to Figure 15 which shows a system (200) according to an aspect of the present invention. The system (200) includes a dosing apparatus (100) as is discussed above, and a reservoir (202).

The reservoir (202) has a lid (204). The dosing apparatus (100) is positioned so that the skirt (110) is inserted into an aperture (206) in the lid (204). In doing so, the nozzle (139) is inserted into a liquid (210) contained within the reservoir (202). The outlet (154) is positioned above a top surface of the liquid (210).

Referring now to Figures 12 to 14, the dosing apparatus (100) has a lower housing (160) formed by a lower portion (162) and a cover (164). The lower portion (162) is attached to, or formed integrally to, the top plate (112). However, the cover (164) may be releasably attached to the lower portion (162). In the illustrated embodiment, posts (166) are attached or integrally formed to, the lower portion (162) and / or the top plate (112). The posts (166) include threaded apertures (not indicated) which are configured to engage with screws (not indicated in the Figures).

The screws may extend through corresponding apertures (not shown) in the cover (164) to thereby releasably secure the cover (164) to the lower portion (162).

Operation

The system (200) may be used to treat a distillate accordingly to the method described herein. For instance, a distillate may be placed in the reservoir (202), and the lid (204) and dosing apparatus ( 100) positioned as described above. A conduit is engaged to the connector to provide a supply of treatment substance for use by the system (200) in the method.

The controller (140) is used to select a mode of operation corresponding to the desired method to be used. This may determine the following:

• The amount of treatment substance to be jetted into the distillate;

• The time between jetting of aliquots of the treatment substance; and / or

• The operation of the flow generator before, during, and / or after jetting of an / the aliquot(s) of the treatment substance.

First Alternate Embodiment

Referring now to Figure 17 which shows an alternative embodiment of a dosing apparatus (300) according to an em bodiment of the invention.

Aspects of the dispensing apparatus (300) as similar to those of dosing apparatus (100) and therefore like references refer to like components.

In the embodiment of Figure 17, a ventilation arrangement (340) is provided by an aperture (342) in the top plate (112). A flow generator (344) is connected to the aperture (342) and configured to in use generate a flow of air through the aperture, along the ventilation conduit, and out of the opening into the cavity (104).

The extraction assembly includes a conduit (350) attached to an aperture (not illustrated) in the top plate (112).

Second Alternate Embodiment

Referring now to Figures 18-25 which show an embodiment of a dosing apparatus (400) according to a further embodiment of the present invention. Aspects of the dosing apparatus (400) are similar to those of the dosing apparatus (100) discussed above, and therefore like references refer to like components. The dosing apparatus (400) is configured for use with a still (not shown in the Figures). For instance, the dosing apparatus (400) can be releasably attached to a reservoir (not shown in the Figures) forming part of the still (not shown). This should become clearer form the following discussion. However, it is also envisaged that the dosing apparatus (400) could be incorporated permanently into a separate vessel, or permanently attached to a vessel which is part of the still.

In the embodiment of Figure 18, a ventilation arrangement (indicated generally by (440)) is provided by an aperture (442) on base plate (446). A flow generator (444) is connected on top of aperture (442) and configured to in-use generate a flow of air through the aperture (442), along the ventilation conduit, and out of the opening into the still (not shown in the Figures).

The ventilation arrangement (440) includes a centrifugal fan (445), powered by brushless motor (402) and is configured to draw air from the air intake inlets (441) into centre of the base plate (446), through aperture (442). Air is also configured to be extracted via the aperture (442) from conduit (450). An asymmetrically dispensing conduit (138) protrudes below the base plate (446) with a diameter outlet, and a controller (140) configured to give controlled periods of jetting treatments of a treatment substance to the dispensing conduit (138) via treatment substance inlet (432) on the dosing apparatus (400).

The centrifugal fan (445) is configured to create negative pressure inside the still (when in use), this in turn means fresh air will be drawn into the tank through the air intake inlets (441) and out through the conduit (450).

Treatment substance Inlet (432) includes a connector to receives the treatment substance which is to be jetted into the distillate.

It should be noted that the fan (445) plays a significant role in discarding impurities from the liquid as it assists in the extraction and discarding of air through conduit (450). A standard hose (not shown) can be attached to the conduit (450), the other end of this hose can be extended out through a window or door to expel the vapors safely outside of the room. Legs (410) are configured to securely attach the dosing apparatus (400) to a still (not shown). Rubber liner (447) ensures the base plate (446) of the dosing apparatus (400) forms an effective seal onto the opening of the still (not shown). Dispensing conduit (138) is configured to jet the treatment substance into the still during the treatment process. The dosing apparatus (400) further includes a sensing means (indicated generally by (420)) to determine and measure the amount of liquid in the still. In the illustrated embodiment, the sensing means (420) is provided by a float switch (421). A float switch (421) is attached to dispensing conduit (138) and is in communication with the controller and is configured to activate when the level of liquid in the still reaches a pre-determined level. The float switch (420) can be adjusted via adjustor (448) to any position along the dispensing conduit (138).

With reference to Figure 25, a controller (140) is also provided and configured to function in a similar manner to the controller (140) discussed above in relation to Figures 9-11.

The controller (140) includes a user interface comprising a number of buttons and LED indicators to provide input and information on the operation of the dosing apparatus (400). Representative examples of the configuration of the buttons and LED indicators will now be discussed. However, this discussion should not be taken as limited to the following features in any way.

Two buttons are present on the user interface and are adjacent to one another. The first button is labelled as "start/stop" and is configured to turn the dosing apparatus on or off. The second button is labelled as "mode" and is configured to cycle the dosing apparatus (400) through pre-programmed running modes.

A series of LED indicators are also provided which provide the user with information on the operation of the dosing apparatus (400) and enable the user to select of the preferred jet treatment programme to undertake.

It should be appreciated that different jet treatment programmes can be selected and programmed into the controller (140), therefore the LED indicators should not be seen as limited to the features described in Figure 25.

The controller (140) contains a number of pre-programmed options and can be configured to perform at least one of the steps of:

• To dispense an aliquot of treatment substance;

· To dispense multiple aliquots of treatment substance sequentially;

• To wait a pre-determined time period between dispensing aliquots of treatment substance;

• To vary the time period between any two aliquots of treatment substance; and

• To dispense two or more aliquots of treatment substance which have a different volume to each other.

In addition, the controller (140) may have a timer function. For instance, the timer function may be used to determine how long the flow generator (444) has been in operation, and / or how much fluid has flowed through the dispensing conduit (138). In the illustrated embodiment the timer may be an electronic circuit (not shown) within the controller. However, the timer function may be provided by alternatives such as a flow controlled valve which determines the volume of an aliquot of treatment substance.

The controller (140) may also be configured to enable a user to vary parameters of the dosing apparatus (400). This may enable optimisation of its use or to better suit a user's needs. In operation, the dosing apparatus (400) is connected to a power source using a power cord (not shown in the Figures). In addition, the dosing apparatus (400) is connected to a reservoir of a treatment substance (not shown in the Figures) using a hose (not shown) having a connector (neither shown), which engages to the treatment substance Inlet (432) on the dosing apparatus (400). The distillate (containing high % alcohol) to undergo jet treatment is then poured into the still (not shown). The sensing means (420) is set to a desired level by adjusting float switch (421) to the desired predetermined final level of distillate to be achieved after the treatment substance has been jetted into the distillate. The dosing apparatus (400) can then be placed on top of the opening of the still. The preferred treatment programme is then selected and inputted into the system via user interface on the controller (140), e.g. injection time, injection volume etc. The jet treatment will start once the start button is pressed (on the user interface), the centrifugal fan (445) will initiate and will run continuously during the treatment process. Timed intervals between jetting (as pre-programmed) will allow bubbles (containing volatized substances) to dissipate, this process is assisted by the continuous running of the centrifugal fan.

The jet treatment process will continue until the still is filled to desired level, triggering the float switch (421) to automatically switch off the dosing apparatus (400). The mixture can then be subjected to a second distillation process to concentrate and purify the alcohol. After the second distillation has been completed the alcohol will be ready for final dilution to the desired level for consumption.

It will be appreciated by the person skilled in the art that the treatment system described herein can be easily upscaled to process larger batches of liquid as required. For example, a larger still could be used, and/or the components of the dosing apparatus (400) could be reconfigured to accommodate larger stills.

Preliminary Testing

The efficacy of the methods and apparatus according to the present invention were evaluated.

Initially, three batches of a liquid mixture having a comparatively high alcoholic content were produced by the following method:

- Dissolving 8 kg of sucrose into 21 L of water at 30°C. Total volume was then made up to 23 L to make a base solution.

- Adding a sachet of yeast available under the brand name Classic 8 Turbo Yeast (batch 4316) to the base mixture and stirring. - Adding a sachet of carbon available under the brand name Turbo and stirring.

- The standard gravity was measured and the fermenter temperature and room temperature were recorded daily. - The base mixture was fermented for between 7-8 days until SG content was stable to produce a liquid mixture having an alcohol of approximately 16% by volume.

The liquid mixture was cleared using a commercially available fining agent sold under the brand name Turbo clear.

The resulting liquid mixture was subsequently distilled in a commercially available distillation apparatus sold under the model name T500 to produce three distillate batches. The distillate batches were blended together to form a base spirit with an alcohol content of 91.5% by volume.

Initial Samples

diluted with

approximately 2.5L of hot

tap water (46°C) high

velocity water jet

to bring the alcohol

content directly to 40%.

SP 6 Carbon filter 2L of base spirit was 1 x 100ml sample diluted to 40% alcohol

and treated with standard

carbon filtration using the

EZ filter.

The samples described above were jetted with water at a pressure of 5bar, with each jet treatment programmed to jet 1kg water.

Sample Analysis

Quantitative analysis of samples (prepared as described above) was performed by gas chromatography and flame ionisation by liquid injection, using a Shimadzu GC-2014 equipped with a flame ionisation detector.

Qualitative assessment of samples (prepared as described above) was conducted for sensory qualities such as smell and taste.

Discussion of Test Results Results of the qualitative and quantitative assessments of samples are shown in Figures 2 to 6.

The invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of said parts, elements or features.

As shown in Figures 2 to 4, samples prepared according to the method of the present invention have significantly reduce concentrations of acetaldehyde, ethyl acetate, acetal and n-propanol compared to the concentration of these compounds present in "untreated" samples.

It can also be seen that treatment using water of a relatively higher temperature provided increased reduction in concentration of compounds as compared to treatment using relatively colder water.

As can be seen in Figures 5A and 5B, the sequential jetting of aliquots of water leads to further decreases in concentration of compounds. Figure 6 shows a strong correlation between sensory tests of samples to the use of jetting a treatment substance. While sample SP4 has lower concentrations of compounds than SP2, it has a higher sensory rating, indicating that effect of comparatively small differences in concentrations of compounds is not a discernible difference. Further testing

Further testing was conducted using the dosing apparatus (400).

Two sets of trials were carried out to further demonstrate the effect of jetting a treatment substance on the types and level or impurities present in home brewed spirits.

A first set of samples ("a first further set of samples") was prepared and sent to a laboratory for analysis. These samples were subject to a period storage and transportation in order to deliver the samples to the laboratory for analysis.

A second set of samples ("a second further set of samples") was prepared in the laboratory prior to testing. Both the first set of samples and the second set of samples were prepared using the method discussed below. The results of tests on the "first further set of samples" and the "second further set of samples" are shown in Figure 27.

The "second further set of samples" prepared in the laboratory was measured to contain higher impurity levels than the "first further set of samples". Reasons for this are provided in the discussion section below. Preparation "first further set of samples"

In a plastic container (20L capacity) 8kg standard commercial white sugar purchased from a supermarket was mixed with 20L of warm water (30 degrees Celsius). The mixture was stirred until all the sugar was dissolved. Commercially available yeast in the form of 'Classic8 Turbo Yeast' (240gm packet) was subsequently added to the mixture. The Wash was kept at 18 - 25 degrees Celsius throughout the fermentation period. The resulting mixture provided a 20% alcohol wash as per package instructions. The mixture was left to ferment for at least 5 days depending on room temperature and yeast.

A commercially available Essencia Express Still was used for the distillation process. The still has a nominal capacity of 20L. A short reflux zone in the lid was packed with steel wool and cooled with an external water jacket over a 100mm length. The vapor phase was passed through a 150mm length water jacketed condenser section. The still was topped up where required to 20 litre volume before distillation.

The still was switched on and heated to around 78 degrees Celsius to distill alcohol. The cut off temperature was set at 86 degrees Celsius.

The distillation process occurred over 3 and 3.5 hours, resulting in between 4 and 4.5 L of 85% alcohol v/v as measured by a commercially available Stevenson Reeves Spirit Meter.

A sample from the "first further set of samples" was then subjected to a re-distillation process to produce a "subsequent sample" for further comparative analysis.

Preparation of "second further set of samples"

A "second further set of samples" was also prepared for comparative analysis. 42 litres of distilled water at 30°C was mixed in a brewing barrel with 12 kg of white sugar and 480 g of Still Spirits Turbo Yeast Classic 8 making a final volume of 51 litres. The yeast sachet listed bentonite as an ingredient. The manufacturers of the yeast recommend additional use of activated carbon during fermentation and addition of a proprietary flocculent before distillation, but these additional additives were not included in this fermentation wash.

The fermentation was run for 6 days in a room with air temperatures ranging from 19 to 22°C. The fermentation broth was maintained at 27 to 30°C using a thermostat controlled immersion heater. The final broth measured 10% ethanol by density, however this may under-represent the true content due to other dissolved components.

The broth was distilled by decanting into the still in two batches. Distillation was run until the temperature reached 83°C producing 5.59 kg of distillate with 79% ethanol content. A sample of the first 200 ml_ of distillate was collected for analysis before being re-mixed with the bulk distillate for further processing. Water injection trials on "first further set of samples"

The first further set of samples (approximately 20 litres) was prepared according to the method described above and combined into a single vessel to mix uniformly and decanted back into 4 L bottles. The ethanol content was measured to be 86% by hydrometer. A "subsequent sample" was also provided with the first further set of samples for testing, the "subsequent sample" is referred to herein as a redistilled (no water injection) sample from the same "first further set of samples".

The dosing apparatus (400) was provided to the laboratory for testing, together with a vessel having a working volume of approximately 15 L. The first jet treatment run on the 'first further set of samples' (referred to herein as 'low pressure') used a centrifugal pump on a closed loop to provide pressure and flow of distilled water to the treatment system. The maximum pressure achievable with this system was 1.5 bar. The second jet treatment run on the 'first further set of samples' (referred to here as 'mains pressure') used a connection directly to the council mains potable water supply and was run at 5.5bar. Run details are provided in Table 1 below. The treatment system was first calibrated to deliver approximately 1 kg of water per injection. Time between injections was set at 5.5 minutes for all the runs.

In each experiment, 2 L of the pre-prepared sample was first loaded into the container and then nine water injections of one kg were introduced. Samples of approximately 10 mL volume were taken 30 seconds before each subsequent water injection. Two experiments were carried out at each condition to provide a full batch of diluted spirits (approximately 20 L) for the still.

Bubbles dissipated faster in the low-pressure water injections and disappeared before subsequent water injections. For the mains pressure runs, the bubbles remained throughout the entire water injection process. For the low pressure runs the bubbles were very fine, but for mains pressure were larger. The ethanol content was measured to be 16% by hydrometer after jet injection, consistent to within 1% of the ethanol content calculated from the degree of water dilution of the original spirit.

Table 1 : Experiments carried out

Experiment 1 Ex e iment 2 \ Experiment 3 Experiment 4

Irijectiars pressure 1,5 bar 1,5 bar \ 5,5 bar 5.5 bar

22 X 15 X

Injection time 14 s 14 s 1 7.25 s 7.25 s

Distilled (!©» ' Distilled ott!

Water i mains mains

j pressure} pressure!

A summary of weights recorded before and after injections can be found in Table 2. Typically, a 10-30 g weight loss between injections is observed which could be a measure of the mass of volatiles being removed from the head space. Table 2: Water injection summary

Carbon filtration

Four litres of the supplied spirit (3.28 kg) was diluted with 4.02 kg of distilled water to give a liquid having an ethanol content of approximately 40 % by volume, and this was passed through a carbon EZ filter over a period of approximately three hours. A sample of the filtrate was taken for further comparative analysis with a distillate treated using the dosing apparatus of the present invention.

Water injection of second further set of samples

Water injection treatment of the second further set of samples was carried out using mains pressure water as noted in above. The injection was carried out directly in the still with an initial four litre volume of the new distilled spirits (79% alcohol content). Water injections of one kg each were introduced until 18 injections were completed to jet a total of 17.82kg of water was added. Samples were taken 30 seconds after a jetting steps nine and 18 were completed. The final sample had a measured alcohol content of 16%.

Commercial vodkas Commercially available vodkas sold under the brands Smirnoff triple distilled, Absolut, and 42 Below were purchased used to provide a comparison for distillates treated using a dosing apparatus (400) according to the present invention.

Re-distillation A still was used to distill the water injection runs (1, 2 and 3, 4), carbon filtered spirits and the commercial vodkas, and the second further set of samples after jetting of a treatment substance as discussed above.

Prior to distillation, the carbon filtered spirits and commercial vodkas were diluted using water to a total volume of 20 L with an ethanol content of approximately 16 % w/v. The duplicate water injection runs (1, 2 and 3, 4) were each mixed to ensure they were homogenous.

Distillation was carried out in two steps:

1) without the lid until the temperature reached 70°C (running time approximately 40 minutes);

2) with the lid and condenser connected, distillate was collected until the top of the still

temperature reached 83°C (running time approximately one hour and typically around three litres of distillate was obtained).

The still was weighed during distillation. For re-distillation of the low pressure injected spirits the weight loss during the first step with the open still was 110 g, and in the second step 2.32 kg. For the carbon filtered re-distillation the total amount of weight lost from the still was 2.48 kg. These weights were generally consistent with the mass of distillate obtained.

Alcohol content measurements after re-distillation were as follows:

• Low pressure run = 50 %

• Mains pressure run = 60 %

• Mains pressure run with "second further set of samples" = 69% · Triple distillation = 72 %

The residual liquid phase after re-distillation typically had an alcohol content of between 3 and 4 %. Analysis

Samples were analysed by gas chromatography via the method described below to determine the relative peak areas for different compounds. A selection of 1-propanol standards were prepared in water to determine a calibration curve for 1-propanol. Peak areas were scaled to 40% ethanol concentration based on the ethanol concentration of the sample measured by hydrometer, and scaled to an equivalent 1-propanol concentration using a calibration based on the 1-propanol standards.

Analytical Method Samples were analysed directly without further work up by Agilent 7890B gas chromatograph equipped with a flame ionization detector (FID) and DB-WAX Ul (30 m x 0.25 mm i.d., 0.25 μιη) capillary column. Helium was used as the carrier gas, split - 1:30. Injector and detector temperatures were both 250 °C. Oven temperature was held at 40 °C for 4 minutes, then increased by 5 °C/min to 100 °C followed by an increase of 10 °C/min to 200 °C (held for 10 minutes).

For identification, samples were analysed by GC-MS Shimadzu QP2010Ultra gas chromatograph equipped with an MS detector TGWAX-MS (30 m x 0.25 mm i.d., 0.25 μιη) capillary column. Helium was used as the carrier gas, split - 1:25. Injector temperature was 280 °C. Ion source temperature was 250 °C. Oven temperature was the same as used by GC-FID. Peaks were identified based on Lynam K, Zou Y. "Analysis of Distilled Spirits Using an Agilent J& W DB- WAX Ultra Inert Capillary GC Column" Application note, Agilent Technologies, Inc. Publication number 5991-6638EN, 2016 and GC-MS data.

A standard calibration curve was prepared by analysing a range of dilutions of 1-propanol in water. Calibration samples were prepared on the day of analysis. Both analytical samples and calibration samples were analysed on the same day. The compounds present were quantified in terms of 1- propanol equivalent peak area. A typical analysis trace is shown in Figure 25. The saturated peak is ethanol, with minor peaks eluting later quantified.

Discussion

Results of the sample analysis are presented in Figure 31 and plotted in Figures 27-30. Figure 27 shows the total impurities for the pre-prepared spirits before and after processing with different methods. The mains pressure water injected and carbon filtered products had similar levels to the 'first further set of samples' indicating that the net effect was minimal for the supplied starting material.

After subsequent discussion with the laboratory it was determined that the 'first further set of samples' sent for testing had been inadvertently stored without being fully sealed, and appears to have naturally lost many of the impurities it had after initial preparation. An indication of this can be seen in the higher impurity level of the 'subsequent sample' which was re-distilled (double distilled) from the 'first further set of samples' and provided to the laboratory. This 'subsequent sample' was stored and sealed appropriately. Re-distilling of this double distilled sample gave a reduction in impurities of about 20%. Further, the results of the "second further set of samples" prepared by the laboratory under controlled conditions also indicated a higher level of impurities than the 'first further set of samples' sent in for testing. It should be appreciated that this natural loss of impurities is likely due to a number of factors. The samples were stored in unsealed containers for a number of days before being transported (by car) to the laboratory (a distance of over 500km away over two days). The journey to the laboratory would have involved further agitation of the samples on the journey which may have aided the loss of impurities.

It should be noted that this natural loss is an undesirable method and does not provide for a controlled means for the reduction of impurities in the distillate. Opening up the distillate for this natural loss of impurities to occur introduces the prospect of foreign matter being introduced into the distillate. Further, the speed of this loss of impurities is slow, taking a number of days or weeks to reduce down to the required level. This is in contrast to the present jet treatment process where only a number of hours is required to achieve the same reduction in compounds which could adversely contribute to the flavor profile of a beverage.

It will also be apparent to the skilled person that the intended jet treatment will follow immediately after the distillate has been prepared with no requirement to store and seal this distillate. Using the jet treatment process greatly enhances and accelerates the time it takes to reduce the level of impurities in the distillate. It is also a reproducible process which does not depend on uncertain environmental conditions.

Figure 28 shows results of the "second further set of samples" prepared by the laboratory before and after jet treatment and after re-distillation. An intermediate sample after 9 of the 18 water jet treatments is also shown. The results indicate a reduction of about 35% in total impurities from the initial distilled sample.

As noted above, the initial results of the "second further set of samples" prepared by the laboratory indicated a higher level of impurities than the "first further set of samples" sent in for testing. This level of impurity found for the "second further set of samples" would more accurately correspond to the likely level of impurities to be reduced from the initial distillate (prior to jet treatment).

Re-distillation of the "second further set of samples" after the jet treatment did not appear to further change the total impurity level. The final impurity level is consistent with the results from the supplied spirits, suggesting that this may be the limiting level to which the process (as tested here) will reduce impurity levels. Figure 29 shows the distribution of individual impurities during the initial distillation of the "second further set of samples", and after jet treatment. The results show that acetates and acetaldehyde are highly concentrated in the initial distillate (head) from the still. The larger (C3-C5) alcohols though are not preferentially distilled in the initial fraction. After the jet treatment, all impurity components show a decrease in concentration.

Figure 30 shows the impurities in the re-distillation step after jet treatment of the "second further set of samples". In contrast to the initial distillation of the wash, each of the components - including isoamyl alcohol, is selectively concentrated and reduced from the initial distillate.

Comparative results for the commercially available vodka products are listed in Figure 30. As expected, these products have very low levels of detectable impurities, almost 1000 times smaller than those observed in the home-based distilled spirits used in this experiment.

A mass balance on ethanol for water injection and re-distillation of the "second further set of samples" prepared by the laboratory is provided in Figure 32. 69% of the ethanol from the initial distillation is recovered in the injected and redistilled product. The remaining 31% is lost either in the residual aqueous phase or is lost by evaporation during the water injection process. The calculation in Figure 32 indicates 5% is lost in the jet treatment process, however this calculation is very sensitive to the measured residual ethanol content in the aqueous phase which cannot be measured accurately using a hydrometer. Weight loss measurements during jet treatment, given in Table 2 above, indicate approximately 20 g of volatiles is vented with each one kg water injection. If this is predominantly ethanol and impurities (i.e. not water), then the overall loss of ethanol during the water injection process is estimated at 5-10%.

Nozzle size testing Further testing was conducted using various nozzle sizes to determine the effect of nozzle size on efficacy of the dosing apparatus (400).

In total 19 samples were tested with 3 different nozzle sizes, (3mm, 3.5mm, 4mm).

The supplied base spirit was measured to be at 85% alcohol at 20 degrees Celsius using a Stevenson Reeves Spirit Meter. Preparation of the samples were in accordance with the same procedure described above.

Details of the testing - nozzle size, injection volume/water pressure; undertaken are provided in Figure 33.

The results of impurities have been plotted against the nozzle size and recorded in Figure 34.

Analysis of the samples were performed in accordance with the same analytical method as discussed previously. From the results, a trend can be seen to emerge wherein reducing nozzle size results in a greater reduction of impurities.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, the inventor proposes that this may be due to higher velocities of the jet treatment substance exiting the nozzle and / or increased turbulence of the flow of treatment substance created by the high flow rate.

Aspects of the present invention have been described by way of example only and it should be appreciated that modifications and additions may be made thereto without departing from the scope thereof as defined in the appended claims.