One of the many advantages of working with FIVE x 5 Solutions is that we’re tapped in to what’s happening in the world of distilling. During our usual monitoring, we’ve noticed an uptick in enforcement actions by the TTB as more distilleries are experiencing a TTB audit. With pandemic restrictions easing, it makes sense that…
How Do I Know When It’s Time to Expand My Operations?
Since every Distilled Spirits Plant is unique in some way, the question of when to expand operations ultimately depends on the proprietor and their business model. With that said, there are some clear indicators that you should consider expansion: If you start your day by moving a bunch of tanks and equipment outside, and finish…
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Inventory Management -Everything You’ve Ever Wanted to Know but Were Afraid to Ask
Inventory Management is one of those tasks that isn’t hugely rewarding while you’re doing it, but the benefits from good record-keeping are profound. Managing the cycle of raw materials, dry goods and finished products will allow your business to grow and react to changes. In today’s world of disrupted supply chains, staying on top of…
Proofing and Gauging – Density Meters (Densitometers)
This article on density meters assumes that you have a good understanding of proofing/gauging and the associated vocabulary. Check out our previous blog post “Proofing & Gauging 101” for that overview if you haven’t already. A density meter is a device that determines the density of a liquid or gas, which you inject or pump…
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Proofing and Gauging: The Hydrometer/Thermometer Method
The TTB is charged with two primary missions: protect revenue and protect consumer. Because of this focus, they are very concerned with alcohol content measurement in distilled spirits plants – an underproof product shortchanges the consumer, while an overproof product shortchanges the government its excise tax; enter proofing and gauging. Accordingly, 27 CFR has strict…
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Proofing and Gauging 101
Before we dive into the topic of proofing and gauging, it’s useful to establish some background and definitions; while they may be familiar to you as experienced distillers, these will form the vocabulary for this article. These definitions and regulations primarily apply to United States-based producers, though there are comparable terms and guidelines in most…