What is the process called where leaves and herbs are extracted using a percolator-like method?

The process referred to in the question is percolation. This method involves the extraction of flavors or compounds from leaves and herbs through the use of a percolator, where the solvent (usually alcohol or water) passes through the material, extracting essential oils, flavors, or aromas along the way.

In percolation, the liquid continuously flows through the plant material, allowing for efficient extraction. This technique is particularly effective for obtaining the concentrated elements from herbs and leaves that contribute to the flavor profiles in spirits and infusions.

Maceration involves soaking the herbs or leaves in liquid, typically allowing the flavors to extract through a more passive process rather than the active flow seen in percolation. Infusion refers to steeping ingredients in liquid without the continuous flow associated with percolation. Fermentation is a biological process that converts sugars into alcohol, which does not pertain to the extraction method described in this context.