Tails
Tails are the last portion of liquid that comes out during the distillation process when making spirits like whiskey, gin, or vodka. Think of it like making coffee - you have the first strong part (heads), the good middle part (hearts), and the last weaker part (tails). In distilling, managing tails is important because they contain different flavors and compounds that can affect the final product. Distillers need to know exactly when to separate or "cut" these tails from the rest of the distillation to ensure quality. Other names for tails include "feints" or "after-runs."
Examples in Resumes
Developed precise timing for separating Tails during whiskey production to improve product quality
Implemented new procedures for Tails management in craft gin distillation
Trained junior distillers in identifying and handling Tails and Feints during production runs
Typical job title: "Distillers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Distillers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Industry Events
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you determine the optimal cut points between hearts and tails for different types of spirits?
Expected Answer: An experienced distiller should explain how they use smell, taste, and temperature monitoring to determine the exact moment to separate tails, and how this varies between different spirits like whiskey versus gin.
Q: What strategies have you implemented to improve the efficiency of your tails management?
Expected Answer: They should discuss systems they've developed for collecting and processing tails, possibly including recycling methods and quality control procedures.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you train others to identify tails during distillation?
Expected Answer: Should describe their method for teaching others about the sensory changes that indicate tails, including visual cues, smell differences, and temperature readings.
Q: What are your procedures for handling and storing tails?
Expected Answer: Should explain safe storage practices, record-keeping methods, and any recycling procedures they use in the distillation process.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are tails and why are they important in distillation?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic understanding of what tails are, when they occur during distillation, and why proper separation is important for product quality.
Q: What safety precautions do you take when handling tails?
Expected Answer: Should show knowledge of basic safety procedures, including proper storage, ventilation requirements, and handling protocols.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of distillation process
- Ability to identify tails under supervision
- Knowledge of safety procedures
- Basic record keeping
Mid (2-5 years)
- Independent management of distillation runs
- Precise identification of cut points
- Training of junior staff
- Quality control procedures
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced distillation techniques
- Process optimization
- Product development expertise
- Team management and training
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain basic distillation processes
- Lack of knowledge about safety protocols
- No hands-on experience with different types of spirits
- Poor understanding of quality control measures
Related Terms
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