The problem of the optimization of only one multicomponent batch distillation will be formulated by taking into account a new operating parameter corresponding to the start of the collection of product cuts and by use of a variable reflux ratio. The effects of these operating parameters, on the recovery of each product cut and of the productivity, will be explored using digital simulation. Discretization using tiny steps for the reflux ratio can produce significant gains when compared with a constant reflux ratio. Beginning recovery of the main cut other than the first main cut when the mole fraction at the head of the column is equal to the specification of this main cut is not the optimal strategy for a constant reflux ratio. The new formulation of the optimization problem of a batch distillation campaign with the possibility of recycling secondary cuts by use of a variable reflux ratio and by calculation of the optimal moment for the start of recovery of the main cuts will be presented and illustrated by two examples.