Although early texts tend to be shrouded in mystery, it is certain that in the alchemist''s quest for the elixir of life, distillation played a central role. From designing the apparatus to understanding the processes involved, distillation has developed across civilisations and through the ages to the powerful tool it is today. There is no modern book that deals with the history of distillation. Ian Hornsey has extensively researched the literature and brings this topic to life through his contagious enthusiasm and excellent writing. There is a wealth of new material to report particularly around the early alchemists and into the origins of distillation. With the growth of the craft distillation industry internationally, both producers and the layman with a specialist interest in distilling will find this book of interest.