OUR VODKA COLLECTION
How Is Vodka Produced?
Vodka is a clear, neutral spirit that is typically made from fermented grains or potatoes.
The exact process of making vodka can vary depending on the specific recipe and production method, but there are a few key steps that are generally involved.
Fermentation:
The first step in making vodka is to produce a fermented wash. This is typically done by combining a base ingredient, such as grains, potatoes, or sugar, with water and yeast. The yeast consumes the sugars in the mixture and produces alcohol as a byproduct, resulting in a low-alcohol wash.
Distillation: Once the wash has been produced, it is then distilled to increase the alcohol content and remove any impurities. Vodka is typically distilled using a column still, which involves heating the wash and passing it through a series of tall columns. As the vapour rises through the columns, it condenses and becomes more concentrated, resulting in a high-alcohol distillate.
Filtration: After the distillation process is complete, the vodka may be filtered to remove any remaining impurities and create a smoother, more refined taste. There are a variety of filtration methods that may be used, including charcoal filtration, sand filtration, or even diamond filtration in some high-end vodkas.
Dilution: Once the vodka has been distilled and filtered, it is typically diluted with water to reduce the alcohol content and create a more balanced flavour profile. The final alcohol content of vodka can vary widely, but is typically around 40% ABV.
Bottling: After the vodka has been diluted, it is typically bottled and sold. Some vodka producers may choose to age their vodka in barrels or casks for a period of time to add additional flavour and complexity, but most vodka is sold as an unaged, clear spirit.
Overall, the process of making vodka is relatively simple compared to other spirits, but it requires a high level of precision and attention to detail in order to produce a high-quality product.
The end result is a smooth, neutral spirit that is enjoyed in a variety of cocktails and mixed drinks around the world.
The Venerable Vodka: An Odyssey of a Spirit
Vodka, with its characteristic clear appearance and subtle flavour, is a spirit that holds a revered place in the hearts of many across the globe.
Its history is deeply entwined with the cultural and political fabrics of Eastern Europe and Russia.
Here's an incite into the ancient pathways of vodka's evolution from a humble folk remedy to a global spirit synonymous with a refined, minimalist aesthetic.
Early Beginnings
The origins of vodka are shrouded in a mist of historical uncertainty, with both Russia and Poland staking claim to its inception.
The word "vodka" is derived from the Slavic word 'voda,' meaning water, which reflects its clear, pure essence. Historical records trace vodka’s emergence back to 8th or 9th-century Russia, while some evidence suggests that it might have been distilled as early as the 8th century in Poland.
From Folk Remedy to National Spirit
In its earliest form, vodka was utilised for medicinal purposes. With time, its consumption transcended to a broader social and cultural spectrum.
By the 17th century, vodka had woven itself into the social fabric of Russia and Poland, becoming a staple at religious ceremonies, family gatherings, and community celebrations.
Technical Innovations and Vodka's Refinement
The 18th century saw the dawn of vodka's refinement with the advent of new distillation and filtration techniques.
The Russian Tsar, Peter the Great, was known for his affinity for vodka, and under his reign, the spirit witnessed significant improvements in quality. The establishment of state-controlled vodka distilleries helped standardise the production process and elevate vodka from a rustic homemade spirit to a symbol of national pride.
Global Dissemination
The 20th century marked the period when vodka began to capture international palates.
The Russian Revolution in 1917 played a paradoxical role in vodka’s global journey.
The fleeing Russian nobility and intellectuals carried with them their cherished vodka traditions, sowing the seeds of vodka culture in various parts of Europe.
Post World War II, vodka found a burgeoning market around the world and soon became a spirit celebrated for its simplicity and versatility.
The Modern Era
Today, vodka stands tall as one of the most consumed spirits globally.
The modern era has seen an explosion of craft distilleries and a remarkable array of flavored vodkas.
The spirit's neutral profile makes it a favorite among mixologists, leading to a vast and ever-evolving repertoire of cocktails.
The history of vodka is a rich tapestry interwoven with cultural, political, and social threads from the heartlands of Eastern Europe.
As it continues to charm the global audience with its simplistic elegance and purity, vodka’s journey mirrors the historical currents of the lands it originated from, making every sip a toast to a deeply ingrained legacy.