Subscribe to our newsletter. Congeners are toxic byproducts of distillation and fermentation. These chemical impurities are the substances responsible for giving each drink its individual taste, color and aroma. Congeners do not cause drunkenness, but do add to your hangover.
Some spirits are higher in congeners than others.
Red wine, brandies, and whiskies are usually higher than other types of alcohol. Each spirit has its own identifying congeners which give it a unique flavor. The liver must process these, so it is best to avoid mixing your spirits. The distillation process has a direct relation to the amount of congeners found in your spirits. The pot still is generally used to produce high end brandies, malt whiskies, and dark rums for example.