The paper examines a new type of a batch distillation column which is built up from two separation sections and a vessel in between. The behavior of the column is analyzed using the infinite separation and the minimum reflux models. A comparison of a batch rectifier, a batch stripper and a column with a middle vessel showed that the latter always performs better than conventional design. Using the minimum reflux model it is shown that operation at the steady state is the optimal control policy for the column with a middle vessel in the case of a binary separation.