What is the purpose of Chill Filtration in spirits?

Chill filtration serves the primary purpose of removing hazy components from spirits. This process involves chilling the liquid, which causes certain fatty acids, proteins, and esters to coagulate and become solid. These solid particles can create cloudiness, particularly in lower-proof spirits or those that undergo a reduction in temperature. By chilling the spirit and then filtering it, producers can ensure that the final product remains clear and visually appealing.

This clarity is particularly important for spirits that are meant to be consumed neat or in cocktails where visual presentation matters. While some may argue about the impact of chill filtration on texture and mouthfeel, its main function is certainly to improve clarity by eliminating undesirable hazy elements, ensuring that the spirit maintains a polished and refined appearance for consumers.