Australian legal note: Distilling alcohol in Australia requires the appropriate excise manufacturer licence. This article explains terminology for education and licensed production only. TAB calculators are designed for legally obtained spirits.

In distilling, the terms heads, hearts and tails describe fractions collected at different points in a spirit run.

These fractions differ in aroma, flavour and composition. Licensed distillers use sensory assessment, measurements and established operating procedures to decide how fractions are managed.

What are heads?

Heads are the earliest fraction collected in a run.

They often contain more volatile compounds with sharp, solvent-like or pungent aromas. In commercial and licensed settings, heads are separated from the preferred drinking fraction.

Heads are not selected for beverage use.

What are hearts?

Hearts are the central fraction and are generally the cleanest, most balanced part of the run.

This is the fraction typically associated with the desired spirit character. Depending on the style, hearts may be clean and neutral or carry more grain, fruit or botanical character.

The exact heart cut differs between products, equipment and production goals.

What are tails?

Tails are the later fraction of a run.

They often contain heavier compounds and can create oily, earthy, bitter or damp aromas. Some distillers may retain selected portions for later redistillation or blending within their approved production process.

Why do cuts matter?

Cut decisions influence:

• Aroma
• Flavour
• Smoothness
• Spirit character
• Consistency between batches
• Overall product quality

There is no universal time-based rule for cuts. Licensed distillers assess the spirit using multiple indicators, including sensory evaluation, proof, equipment behaviour and production records.

Why “making cuts by time” is unreliable

Every batch behaves differently.

Fermentation quality, ingredients, wash strength, still design, run speed and temperature can all change when fractions appear. A cut schedule that worked for one batch may not work for another.

For this reason, experienced licensed distillers rely on process control and detailed notes rather than fixed clock times.

Record Keeping for Distilling Runs

What happens after hearts are selected?

Once the preferred fraction is selected, it may be:

• Rested
• Diluted to a target ABV
• Filtered
• Blended
• Flavoured
• Aged, depending on the product style
• Bottled and labelled

Spirits Calculators

Frequently asked questions

Are heads safe to drink?

No. Heads should not be treated as a beverage fraction.

Are tails always discarded?

Not necessarily. In licensed production, tails may be managed according to the producer’s approved process, including potential recovery or redistillation.

Can cuts be determined by temperature alone?

No. Temperature is only one process indicator. It is not a reliable standalone way to decide fractions.