Vodka is a classic when it comes to creating interesting concoctions and delightful drinks, as seen by its enormous global appeal. Pop culture and media have made it an essential feature of parties and bar nights with pals. Delicious drinks like Titos, Grey Goose, and Absolut have captivated people for decades. Even though the world obsesses, this pure distilled liquor remains mysterious.
Where and when did vodka originate?
Russian ‘voda’ means water, so ‘vodka.’ Due to its exciting history, vodka mainly connects with Russian and Polish cultures. It is unclear whether vodka originated in the 8th or 9th century, but it became popular in Russia in the 14th century and became even more famous when the state took control of Russian distillers to standardise production. After World War II, distilled spirits moved from Poland, Russia, and the Balkans to the US and Europe.
Standard vodka available at Vintage Cellars contains 14% alcohol by volume, but it now averages 40%. The Russians claim to have invented the first distilled vodka by being the pioneers of distilling spirits, but others worldwide have loved it just as much, if not more. In the 1980s, vodka became famous for mixing in bars, and pricey celebrity-endorsed companies offered ‘authentic’ bottled vodka, securing its position on bar shelves.
The vodka-making process:
Vodka may be manufactured from any sugar or starch, unlike other spirits. Corn, rice, fruits, rye, wheat, potatoes, or sugar may all make vodka. In fermentation, microbes like yeast chemically break down sugar or starch into alcohol or ethanol. Distillation separates vodka from fermentation byproducts. The drug must be 190 proof before diluting with water to lower alcohol concentration to roughly 80 proof.
What is the flavour of vodka?
The moderate flavour of vodka complements other spirits and drinks. Some components and manufacturing processes might improve or lessen the spirit’s delicate flavour. Vodka’s smooth, oily, and crunchy textures are also popular.
Recently, flavoured vodka has become more prevalent, delivering a range of flavours for different preferences. Vanilla and citrus infusions are most popular, although berries, pineapple, melon, and pomegranate all taste great. Chocolate and espresso-based vodkas, which taste like sweets, are also popular.
How can you drink vodka?
Vodka may be drunk cold or straight without mixers since its flavour is mild. The spirit’s mild flavour makes it ideal for martinis, vodka drinks, and soda drinks. Fruit-based drinks are also flavoured with vodka for a robust, delicious taste.
Vodka is often served as an aperitif with food since its rich and nuanced undertones enhance the flavours of both. One of the most popular pasta recipes is “Penne alla vodka,” which contains vodka. Italian sweets like tiramisu, semifreddo, and affogato may be made creamier with vodka.
Final Thoughts: Vodka in cocktails
Vodka remains popular because it absorbs the taste of everything blended. When mixed with fruit juices and syrups, it enhances the taste without overpowering them. This makes it ideal for mixing drinks or infusing in martini bars worldwide. Some mixologists now avoid some alcohol owing to its lack of flavour and complexity, as well as the weekend “I’ll have a Titos and vodka” request.
Some cocktail establishments don’t stock vodka to encourage customers to try something new and savour each sip. Some substitute it with Aquavit, a Scandinavian spirit with additional caraway seeds. We believe vodka belongs in your booze cabinet and heart, regardless of where it is in your house.