I havent tried making any spirits as I am not familiar with the local laws. I believe you need to apply and obtain a permit prior to starting any distillation here. I have seen stills for sales on the classifieds and it has piqued my interest. I'd love to try some of your Rakia Vlad. I've tried moonshine before, it tasted like childrens grape flavored cough syrup, but man, that stuff works fast!
Benjamin:
To make your first 5 gallon extract batch, expect to drop about $250 for everything you need, from the 5 gallon stock pot (kettle) to the bottles, caps, and capper. You should also to get ingredients factored in there too. Brew day takes about 4 hours and then about 5 weeks later you will carbonated beer ready to drink and share! Check out
http://www.howtobrew.com/intro.html for pretty much a step by step guide to brewing your first batch! If you have any questions, let me know. It sounds really intimidating at first, but it's a very easy process.
Mc Info:
That looks great! I am not sure I've ever had mead, but it was on my list to make this winter. I'd also like to make some hard cider and perhaps try an apful wein as well. How is the mead, got any recipies?