2.2 REV Q (Vodka)

Question 1

What makes a spirit a vodka?

Answer 1

Distillation strength (at least 95% or 96% abv)

Question 2

What is the first stage of Vodka production and what happens during the stage?

Answer 2

Processing raw materials

Raw materials such as grains (in particular barley, wheat and rye) and potatoes are commonly associated with premium quality vodka.

Question 3

What is the second stage of Vodka production and what happens during the stage?

Answer 3

Fermentation

Once a sugary liquid has been made, fermentation takes place.

Question 4

What is the third stage of Vodka produciton and what happens during the stage?

Answer 4

Distillation

The distillation strength depends on the law in the counry where it is being produced. The strength can only be achieved by using a column still, although some producers use pot stills. At this strength a spirit has virtually no flavour and it is correctly described as neutral.

Question 5

What is the fourth stage of Vodka production and what happens during the stage?

Answer 5

After distillation

These spirits are unaged and reduced to bottling strength, typically 40% abv.

Question 6

What are the two focuses on processes after distillation?

Answer 6

1. Unaged: Producers store their freshly distilled spirits in stainless steel tanks to preserve its colourless characteristic and flavours
2. Dilution: To make the spirits drinkable, the vast majority are diluted with water and sold at 40% abv. It is the last process prior to bottling and involves adding pure water to the spirit.

Question 7

What are the two styles of Vodka?

Answer 7

1. Neutral vodka: most Vodka is made to be as neutral as possible, made it a popular and versatile ingredient for mixed drinks and cocktails
2. Vodka with some character: These vodkas retain a little character with some hints of raw materials that will show on the nose and the palate.