Spirits, Beer, Cider and Kombucha

Spirits Testing  

Our Spirits tests are performed using advanced analytical instruments and are backed by Hill Labs’ accreditation with IANZ (International Accreditation New Zealand). If you're producing or exporting spirits, Hill Labs can tailor a testing package to meet your regulatory and quality needs.  We test:  

• Alcohol Strength & Composition
  ABV% testing via distillation or GC-MS ensures accurate labeling and tax compliance. 

• Flavor & Volatile Compounds
  Includes esters (ethyl/proply acetate), acetone, and other volatiles that influence aroma and taste. 

• Sulphur & Contaminant Screening
  Methanol, sulphur dioxide, and hydrocarbon testing help ensure safety and meet export standards. 

• Heavy Metals & Nutritional Testing
  Useful for premium spirits or health-conscious branding, including trace elements and full nutritional panels. 

• Microbial & Residue Testing
  Though less common in spirits, these tests ensure cleanliness and detect any unexpected contamination. 

Beer & Cider Testing 

We provide tailored chemical and microbiological testing for beer and cider, helping producers ensure quality, consistency, and compliance with industry standards. We test:  

• Alcohol & Sugar Analysis 
  Measures actual alcohol content (ABV%) and residual sugars (glucose/fructose) to ensure product consistency and compliance with labeling. 

• Acidity & pH Testing 
  Includes titratable acidity, volatile acidity (acetic acid), and pH levels—important for flavor balance and microbial stability. 

• Physical Properties 
  Tests like density, specific gravity, and overpressure (gas pressure) help assess carbonation, mouthfeel, and packaging integrity. 

• Sulphur Compounds
  Free and total sulphur dioxide testing ensures preservation and meets export regulations. 

• Contaminants & Residues
  Multi-residue profiles (MR1–MR3) screen for hundreds of potential chemical contaminants, including pesticides and hydrocarbons. 

• Microbial Testing
  Yeast, mould, and aerobic plate count (APC) testing help monitor spoilage and hygiene. 

• Nutritional & Elemental Analysis
  Includes heavy metals, nutritional panels, and trace elements for regulatory and health claims. 

Kombucha Testing 

Testing kombucha helps producers ensure their product is safe, consistent, and compliant with both local and export regulations. We offer the following testing services:  

• Alcohol & Sugar Monitoring 
  Tracks fermentation progress and ensures alcohol levels remain within legal limits for non-alcoholic classification. 

• Acidity & pH Control 
  Critical for flavor and safety, especially in fermented beverages. 

• Nutritional & Functional Components 
  Includes testing for caffeine, amino acids (like L-theanine), fatty acids (Omega 3, 6, 9), and benzoates—often used for health claims or regulatory compliance. 

• Microbial Safety 
  Yeast, mould, and APC testing ensure product safety and shelf stability. 

• Contaminants & Additives 
  Screens for methanol, ethanol, and other volatile compounds that may arise during fermentation. 

Speak to the team to learn more Download the Wine and Alcoholic Beverage Testing information sheetDownload the analysis request form