Works to both ferment and then later distill. This is a great starter kit. After your first batch you'll do good to purchase tools to measure sugar and alcohol content.I never experienced any problems with leaky seals once I stopped being lazy and used a wrench. I've made about 6 batches so far, friends are impressed and love it. Pump is a little strong but if you're doing this outside then it's not a big deal. After 1 or two batches I haven't used the thumper again, not really a good size for a thumper. Thermometer might be a bit off, but it's consistent which is the most important thing.What I didn't realize before I bought this was how long it takes! If you're just using bread yeast it might take 3 weeks to ferment and then 6 hours to distill, but getting 8 quarts out each run (4 of which are good enough quality to drink, the other 4 you put in the next batch) makes it worth it. I'll get the first quart at 140+ proof and stop around the 8th quart which is usually down to 40 proof.Very happy with my purchase, haven't bought liquor from the store since. The sky's the limit with this and if you're intrigued by the idea (or want to save money) this could do it for you. Highly recommend for a tinker or foodie. I've been having fun with infusions such as peach, charred oak, and ginger and fermented products from my house such as tomatoes, prickly pear, apples, potatoes.
George 
