If a guy wanted to find a good book about traditional distilling methods, everything from malting grain to distilling to finished product, what would be a good recommendation? I've been doing a good bit of reading online, but I'm looking for a good consolidated source of information. For entertainment purposes only, of course

foxfire books tell how to sprout corn build a still make cuts. about as traditional as it gets

Try U-Toob for a video on "Popcorn Sutton"

It sounds like you know what you're looking for. I've seen, a lot of books about distilling, but, you are looking specifically for traditional distilling. Read the table of contents, and reviews before you buy. Make sure whatever you find is not dedicated to new-fangled yuppie stuff. like reflux, pressure cooker, kitchen stuff.

It can be a fascinating topic, with lots to learn.

I second Danny's recommendation on the foxfire books. You'll need to find somewhere that lists the table of contents to figure out which volume covers distilling. But there is a wealth of info in there on very old style distilling, even down to which corns are best to grow for it.

I agree, I'm not at home rt now or I could look at my set and tell you. There is a wealth of good info in all of the volumes tho. Would make an excellent addition to your home resources. No elec needed to read either in bad times.