CS&D Podcast Episode 1: Hosts Sydney Jones and Molly Troupe Share Their Favorite Distilling Techniques

In this launch episode of the Craft Spirits & Distilling Podcast, hosts Sydney Jones of FEW Spirits and Molly Troupe of Freeland Spirits introduce the podcast and each other with a dive into their favorite distilling techniques.

Sydney Jones , Molly Troupe Mar 5, 2024 - 3 min read

CS&D Podcast Episode 1: Hosts Sydney Jones and Molly Troupe Share Their Favorite Distilling Techniques Primary Image

Subscribe to the Spirits & Distilling Podcast:

Welcome to Episode 1 of the Craft Spirits & Distilling Podcast, featuring hosts Sydney Jones, head distiller for FEW Spirits in Chicago, and Molly Troupe, master distiller for Freeland Spirits in Portland, Oregon. Recorded live at the ACSA trade show and convention in Denver, this conversation introduces the podcast and the hosts via a deep dive into their favorite distilling techniques.

Along the way, they discuss:

  • distilling fresh ingredients at lower temperatures with a rotovap
  • navigating the TTB GRAS (generally recognized as safe) list
  • proofing with liquids other than water
  • barrel maturation in hot climates
  • enzyme protocols for difficult grains
  • whiskey-blending strategies
  • purposeful yeast selection, for more characterful whiskey fermentations
  • the flavor impacts of different factors in whiskey cask aging

And more.



Craft the perfect blend every time by enhancing the flavor profile of your spirits with TechniBlend’s state-of-the-art blending and batching technology. TechniBlend is the trusted partner of distilleries across the country, providing solutions for unparalleled accuracy and consistency in the distilled spirits production process. Visit techniblend.com today to discover how our innovative solutions can redefine the art of distillation. TechniBlend: Blend the Best!


Is your brewery, distillery or, heck we’ll say it, “brewstillery” looking for better control of production, finance, compliance, inventory, supply chain, etc.? You want a system that untaps your potential and future-proofs your strategy. You need total visibility into every aspect of your business – and you need it on demand. Visit Crafted ERP.com to learn how Crafted meets you where you’re at today – and prepares you for everything that’s coming tomorrow. Crafted ERP.com


Country Malt Group is proud to support craft distillers across North America with a carefully curated portfolio of the best everyday ingredients and supplies, including malt, adjuncts, fruit, yeast and more! Visit CountryMalt.com/distilling to view their complete list of distilling products, resources and podcast episodes.


Say goodbye to the complexities of ordering equipment and supplies from multiple vendors, and say hello to the efficiency and simplicity offered by Lotus Beverage Alliance. This new alliance brings together craft beverage industry powerhouses GW Kent, Alpha Brewing Operations, Stout Tanks and Kettles, Twin Monkeys Beverage Solutions, Brewmation, and Automated Extractions to provide an unrivaled portfolio of craft beverage equipment and supplies. Experience the convenience of working with ONE vendor…. ONE Source…. for ALL of your craft business needs. Visit LotusBevAlliance.com now, and start streamlining your process today.

Sydney Jones is the Head Distiller for FEW Spirits in Evanston, IL, and has been working in the distilled spirits industry since 2016. Sydney is also a regular contributor to Artisan Spirit Magazine and American Craft Spirits Association publications, including the newly released e-book, “The ACSA Guide to Starting and Operating a Distillery.”

ARTICLES FOR YOU