The Clear Spirit with a Storied Past

From humble beginnings, vodka has risen to international glory. Panos Foteiadis traces this journey and delves into the subtle differences between regions and brands.

Few spirits are as universally recognised and culturally rich as vodka. Known for its clarity, neutrality, and versatility, vodka has travelled from Eastern European tradition to global fame, becoming a staple behind bars and on dinner tables worldwide. While often associated with simplicity, vodka holds a surprisingly complex story — from its origins and production to the nuances that define its quality.

A shot through history

The origins of vodka are hotly debated between Russia and Poland, both laying claim to its invention. Historical records trace vodka production back to the eighth or ninth century in Eastern Europe, initially used for medicinal purposes rather than leisure. The name ‘vodka’ comes from the Slavic word ‘voda’, meaning water, reflecting its appearance and significance in daily life.

In Poland, vodka was initially distilled from wine, then later from rye. In Russia, it gained prominence in the 14th century and became deeply woven into the fabric of social and political life. By the 19th century, vodka had evolved from a rustic grain spirit into a national drink with standardised production methods.

How vodka is made

Vodka can be distilled from almost any fermentable material, but traditionally, it is made from grains like wheat, rye, or corn, and sometimes from potatoes or even sugar beet molasses. The process begins with fermentation, where starches are converted into sugar and then into alcohol. This is followed by distillation, often multiple times, to achieve a high-purity, nearly flavourless spirit.

After distillation, vodka is usually filtered through charcoal or other materials to remove impurities. The resulting spirit is then diluted with water to bring it down to bottling strength, typically around 40% ABV (alcohol by volume).

What distinguishes vodka from other spirits is its intended neutrality. While some variants retain a touch of character from their base ingredients, high-quality vodka is clean and smooth, designed to be sipped neat, served chilled, or mixed into cocktails without dominating the drink.

Variants and styles

Though vodka is known for its neutrality, subtle differences exist based on region and ingredients. Russian-style vodka is often fuller-bodied and made from wheat or rye, offering a slight spice or bread-like quality. Polish vodkas might use potatoes, resulting in a creamier, rounder mouthfeel. Scandinavian vodkas can lean towards purity and minimalism, sometimes using glacial water for dilution.

In recent years, the market has exploded with flavoured vodkas - everything from citrus and berries to chocolate and chili. While purists may prefer traditional styles, flavoured vodkas have carved a niche in mixology and modern cocktail culture.

Identifying quality vodka

With so many brands on the shelves, recognising a high-quality vodka can be daunting. Here are a few tips:

• Smoothness: A premium vodka should have a clean, smooth mouthfeel with minimal burn. Harshness is a sign of poor distillation or filtration.
• Aroma: Though subtle, a good vodka should have a mild, pleasant scent — not overly medicinal or chemical.
• Finish: The aftertaste should be crisp and short, not lingering with bitterness.
• Ingredients: Check the label. Simpler is often better. A reputable brand will highlight its base ingredients and production process.
• Origin: While not a rule, vodkas from traditional vodka-producing countries (Russia, Poland, Sweden) often adhere to time-tested methods and offer excellent quality.

Beyond the bottle
Vodka’s neutrality has made it a beloved base in countless cocktails - from the classic Martini and Moscow Mule to contemporary wine cocktails and culinary infusions.

Its versatility invites creativity, making it equally at home in a formal tasting as it is in a casual gathering.

Despite its unassuming appearance, vodka carries centuries of culture, innovation, and craftsmanship in every drop.

Whether enjoyed neat, mixed, or as part of a masterclass, vodka remains a timeless spirit that continues to evolve while staying true to its clear, crisp identity.