Vodka is one of the most widely consumed spirits in the world. Known for its neutral flavour and smooth texture, it blends effortlessly into cocktails, earning a reputation as the ultimate mixing drink. However, there's much more to vodka than meets the eye. For the discerning drinker, this spirit offers subtle aromas and nuanced flavours that are often overlooked. In this post, we'll explore the distillation process, examine what sets premium vodka apart, and discuss how it can be enjoyed beyond serving as a cocktail base.
The Distillation Process: Crafting the Perfect Vodka
Vodka can be made from any raw material that provides fermentable sugars. High-volume vodkas often use cheaper raw materials like corn or molasses, while premium vodkas emphasise the subtle effects of the raw materials on aroma and texture. In Eastern Europe, where vodka originated, barley, rye, wheat, and potatoes were historically used and are still associated with high-quality production. Today, some producers use less traditional, yet high-quality ingredients such as grapes, while others experiment with more unusual or esoteric raw materials.
Depending on the raw material, starches may need to be converted into fermentable sugars before fermentation. This process typically involves cultured yeast specifically selected to produce minimal aroma, allowing the vodka to retain its clean, neutral profile.
Grains of crushed barley, ready for fermentation.
Vodka must be distilled to a high alcohol by volume (ABV), reaching either 95% in the USA or 96% in the EU. To achieve this level of purity, column stills with numerous rectification plates are required. This distillation process may take place in single or double column stills. Once a neutral spirit is produced, further distillation is sometimes undertaken using hydroselection or de-methylising stills to remove fusel oils and methanol—impurities that can cause harsh or sharp textures in the final product.
After distillation, the spirit may be refined through filtration, such as activated charcoal filtration, to eliminate unwanted aromas and create a smoother texture. Following filtration, the vodka is diluted with water, provided the dilution doesn't fall below the legal minimum bottling strength. The water used is extensively treated to ensure it is as pure as possible, contributing to the vodka’s overall clarity and smoothness.
Even after extensive rectification and filtration, subtle differences between neutral spirits remain. These distinctions can often be detected and appreciated, even by relatively inexperienced tasters.
Our Level 1 Award in Spirits offers the perfect introduction to the distillation process.
Is there such a thing as premium vodka?
In short, yes. Not all vodkas are created equal. While many people associate vodka with its neutral taste, premium vodkas aim to retain subtle characteristics of their base ingredients, offering a richer, more refined drinking experience.
Premium vodka is about more than just alcohol content; it’s about the craftsmanship involved. These vodkas are often produced in small batches, using high-quality ingredients, meticulous distillation, and filtration processes that elevate their quality. The goal of premium vodka is to create a spirit that is smooth, complex, and nuanced enough to be sipped neat, rather than mixed.
What makes a vodka 'premium'?
1. Raw material
Premium vodkas use only the finest ingredients, whether high-quality grains from specific regions, carefully selected potatoes, or even fruits. The base ingredients directly influence the flavour profile, making their sourcing and quality critical. While grains and potatoes are traditionally associated with vodka production in countries like Poland and Russia, these ingredients can be used to great effect in other regions as well.
- Wheat – Associated with Swedish vodkas, wheat can contribute soft textures and subtle bread-dough aromas, adding smoothness and lightness.
- Barley – Often used in Russian and Finnish vodkas, barley lends a cereal 'bite' reminiscent of malt whiskies, with a lean, crisp palate.
- Rye – A signature ingredient in Polish vodkas, rye provides a zesty, spicy character similar to rye-based whiskies, but more subdued.
- Potato – Potatoes are another staple in Polish vodka production, offering earthy, root-like aromas and a rich, full-bodied mouthfeel.
2. Distillation and filtration
Premium vodkas undergo more rigorous distillation and filtration processes. They are often distilled multiple times to remove impurities while retaining the essence of the base ingredient. The number of distillations may vary, but the goal is always to create a smoother, cleaner spirit without stripping away its character.
3. Water quality
Water plays a crucial role in vodka production, particularly when the alcohol is diluted to the desired ABV. Premium vodkas frequently highlight their use of water sourced from natural springs, glaciers, or even Arctic ice, emphasising purity. However, most water undergoes extensive purification—via distillation, filtration, UV light treatment, ion exchange, or reverse osmosis—to ensure it's as pure as possible. This purified water is essential for a smooth, clean vodka.
4. Texture and mouthfeel
One of the key differentiators between premium and lower-end vodkas is texture. Premium vodkas tend to have a smoother, more viscous mouthfeel, often described as creamy or silky. This is a result of meticulous distillation, which removes harsh alcohols while preserving balance and richness.
How to enjoy premium vodka
Though often used as a cocktail base, premium vodka can be enjoyed on its own. Here are a few ways to savour the experience:
1. Straight up
The purest way to appreciate premium vodka is to drink it neat. Some prefer their vodka well chilled to a temperature between 0 and -4°C to enhance smoothness and minimise harshness, while others prefer it at a more moderate temperature.
2. Over ice or with a splash of water
If you prefer a slightly diluted experience, serve premium vodka over ice or with a splash of water.
3. With a twist
A twist of lemon or lime adds a refreshing citrus lift without overpowering the vodka's subtle flavours.
Food pairings that highlight premium vodka
Just like wine, vodka can be paired with food to enhance its flavours. Premium vodka's subtle complexity makes it an excellent match for various dishes.
Caviar and smoked salmon are some of the best food pairing options for vodka.
1. Caviar and smoked fish
Vodka and caviar are a classic pairing, especially in Russian cuisine. The saltiness of the caviar complements the vodka’s smoothness. Similarly, smoked salmon or trout pairs well with vodka, creating a harmonious flavour experience.
2. Sushi
The clean, crisp profile of premium vodka pairs beautifully with sushi, especially sashimi or nigiri. The delicate flavours of fresh fish enhance the subtlety of the vodka without overwhelming the palate.
3. Cheese
Soft cheeses like brie, camembert, or fresh goat cheese pair well with premium vodka. The creaminess of the cheese contrasts nicely with vodka’s clean, smooth finish.
4. Charcuterie
Vodka cuts through the richness of cured meats like prosciutto or salami, cleansing the palate and elevating the overall experience.
5. As a digestif
In some cultures, premium vodka is served as a digestif after meals. Its clean, crisp profile helps cleanse the palate, making it a fitting end to a meal.
Vodka: not just for mixing
Premium vodkas, with their refined distillation processes, high-quality ingredients, and nuanced flavours, offer a luxurious and sophisticated drinking experience. Whether enjoyed neat, over ice, or paired with gourmet foods, premium vodka proves itself as a spirit worth savouring on its own. The next time you reach for a bottle, consider stepping away from the cocktail shaker and giving vodka the attention it truly deserves.
This blog post was written by Ed Wicks, Quality Lead Levels 1-3 & Wine, Spirits and Beer Educator. Ed has been working in the drinks business in some form since he turned 18 years old. He won three awards for his WSET results, and now teaches and runs events at WSET School London. He is also an enthusiastic champion of sweet wines and will probably try to convert you to the style.
