Behind The Bar

A virtually tasteless and odorless clear spirit, vodka is un-aged and extremely pure. The only additive permitted is water, employed to dilute the finished product to 80 proof bottle strength. Vodka distilled from grain accounts for the bulk of the world's supply, though potato-based product is also quite popular. The most recognizable premium vodkas originate in Russia and Poland, but as its popularity has exploded in the U.S., a few highly regarded domestic brands have emerged. Vodka has little flavor of its own; it lends itself so well to mixed drinks because of this intense purity. However, educated palates will note modest stylistic differences. Some vodkas are faintly sweet, some are dry and mildly astringent, while others possess a voluptuous, even oily, finish.