Description
Method of separation in organic chemistry
Technical
Steam distillation is a separation process that consists of distilling water together with other volatile and non-volatile components. The steam from the boiling water carries the vapor of the volatiles to a condenser; both are cooled and return to the liquid or solid state, while the non-volatile residues remain behind in the boiling container.
Sensory Profile
Aroma ()
Wine Analogy
Similar to the aromatic extraction in Gewürztraminer winemaking
Coffee Analogy
Comparable to volatile compound preservation in cold brew processing
Perfume Analogy
Resembles enfleurage for delicate floral essences
Origin & History
Civilization
Ancient Egyptians
Era
circa 3000 BCE
Region
North Africa
Spread Path
Trade along the Nile River → Adoption by ancient Greeks and Romans