How to Use Glycerine to Make Smoother, Better Spirits
Date Posted:27 August 2025
Glycerine is used to smooth and mellow spirits and add some modest body , read more to understand how to use Glycerine in Distilling
Glycerine is a versatile ingredient for home distillers looking to improve the mouthfeel, balance, and overall enjoyment of their spirits. Whether your goal is to reduce harsh alcohol burn, add body, or bring out flavours more quickly, glycerine can make a real difference.
Once you understand what glycerine can do for your spirits, it’s helpful to know how it behaves in a blend and how to use it with confidence for the best results.
Reasons to Add Glycerine to Your Spirits
Improving Mouthfeel and Body
Glycerine adds viscosity to spirits, giving them a fuller, richer texture that feels smoother on the palate. This added “body” can make young or lightly aged spirits feel more substantial, creating the impression of a longer ageing process. It’s particularly effective for spirits that may otherwise taste thin or sharp.
Balancing Harshness and Reducing Alcohol Burn
High-proof or unaged spirits often have a noticeable alcohol bite. Glycerine helps to soften this harshness, rounding out the edges without masking the underlying flavours. This means you get the smoothness you want while still preserving the character of your spirit.
Adding a Touch of Sweetness
Glycerine has a naturally sweet taste, which can subtly enhance the flavour profile. However, using too much can lead to a soapy finish, especially in high-proof spirits. Moderation is key.
If you’re looking for a trusted source, Still Spirits Glycerine is specifically formulated for home distilling.
Glycerine vs. Aging: How It Works
While glycerine can mimic some aspects of barrel ageing, it doesn’t replace the complex chemical changes that occur over time. Barrel ageing develops a wide range of flavour compounds, including esters, aldehydes, and tannins, which contribute to aroma, colour, and depth.
Glycerine works by enhancing mouthfeel and smoothing harsh alcohol notes, giving the sensation of a more mature spirit. When used alongside oak chips or essences, it can help replicate some aged characteristics faster. However, it’s important to remember that nothing truly substitutes the depth that comes from extended maturation.
To add oak flavours, browse the Spirit Additives category for chips, staves, and flavourings.
How Much Glycerine Should You Use?
Adding glycerine is straightforward if you follow a careful process. This method allows you to fine-tune the spirit without overdoing it:
- Add 3mL of glycerine per litre of finished spirit. While some recipes recommend 5mL per litre, it's better to start with less and taste as you go, because if you add too much, you can't take it out.
- Shake the bottle well and let the spirit rest for 24 hours.
- Sample your spirit to check the smoothness and mouthfeel.
- If needed, add in 1 mL increments until you reach the desired texture and flavour.
Safety note: Using more than 7 mL per litre can result in a soapy taste, particularly in high-proof spirits. Always add gradually and taste as you go.
Simple Spirit Recipe with Glycerine - Tennessee Bourbon Whiskey
Here's one easy recipe to get started and discover firsthand how this ingredient can improve your home distilling results.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 sachet of Classic Tennessee Bourbon
- ½ Bottle Top Shelf Southern Whiskey
- 3L Filtered Alcohol
- 15 ml Glycerine
- 100g American Bourbon Barrel Chips
To simplify the process, you can use our Tennessee Bourbon recipe kit that includes all the ingredients you need, except for the filtered alcohol.
METHOD (FOR 3L)
- Mix 1 sachet of Classic Tennessee Bourbon and half a bottle of Southern Whiskey with 3 litres of filtered alcohol at 40%.
- Add 15ml of glycerine to smooth the bourbon and add a touch of sweetness.
- Add 100g of the American Bourbon Barrel Chips.
- Soak in glass for 2-8 weeks or more - The longer the soak, the deeper the colour and the more intense the oak flavours and aroma.
- Sample as it matures to discover the flavour intensity that you want.
Note: There are enough ingredients supplied in our recipe kit to make two 3L batches. Also, you can vary the quantity and volume to suit your taste. Once matured, bottle your bourbon and remove the chips.
Always soak in glass. The longer you leave it the better it becomes.
Safety and Legal Considerations
Glycerine is food-safe and widely used in beverages, but it’s important to remember that all home distilling must comply with local laws and regulations. In Australia, distilling spirits at home requires holding an excise manufacture license, so make sure you have that covered. To prevent unwanted situations, follow all safety guidelines for alcohol production.
FAQ: Glycerine in Home Distilling
1. Is glycerine safe for consumption?
Yes. Glycerine is a clear, odourless, slightly sweet liquid derived from animal or vegetable fats and is safe for small amounts in spirits.
2. How does glycerine improve young spirits?
It adds body, smooths harsh alcohol notes, and rounds out flavours for a more balanced drinking experience.
3. Can glycerine replace barrel ageing?
No, it cannot replicate the chemical complexity of true barrel maturation. It only mimics smoothness and enhances mouthfeel.
4. How much glycerine is recommended per litre?
Start with 3 mL/L, taste after 24 hours, and gradually increase to a maximum of 7 mL/L.
5. Will glycerine change the colour of spirits?
No. Glycerine is colourless, though spirits aged with oak chips may darken naturally over time.
Glycerine is a simple, effective tool for home distillers who want smoother, better spirits without waiting years for barrel ageing. By adding just the right amount, you can improve mouthfeel, balance, and subtle sweetness, turning your homebrew into a more enjoyable and drinkable spirit.
Try Still Spirits Glycerine and start experimenting with your next batch today.